This bill establishes a new section, 943.0579, in the Florida Statutes that pertains to the expunction of qualifying marijuana offenses. It defines a "qualifying marijuana offense" as violations related to the possession of 2 ounces or less of cannabis or possession of drug paraphernalia associated with marijuana, committed before July 1, 2025. The bill mandates the Department of Law Enforcement to issue certificates of eligibility for expunction of these offenses, regardless of the existing eligibility requirements outlined in section 943.0585. The department is required to create an electronic system for petitioners to submit their requests and receive their certificates without any fees.
Additionally, the bill outlines the process for petitioning for expunction, including the necessity for a sworn statement from the petitioner affirming their eligibility. It establishes penalties for providing false information in this statement and clarifies that the court retains discretion over expunction requests. The bill also details the procedural requirements for processing petitions, including notifications to relevant state attorneys and arresting agencies. The Department of Law Enforcement is tasked with adopting rules to implement these provisions, and the act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.