The bill amends Section 843.025 of the Florida Statutes to make it illegal for individuals to interfere with law enforcement, correctional, or correctional probation officers by depriving them of their essential equipment, such as weapons, radios, digital recording devices, or restraint devices. The new legal language clarifies that it is unlawful to render these devices useless or to obstruct officers from defending themselves or calling for help. Violations of this provision will be classified as a third-degree felony, carrying criminal penalties.

In addition to the primary amendments, the bill includes conforming changes to other sections of Florida Statutes, particularly those related to background screening for peer specialists and other qualified applicants. These amendments disqualify individuals with certain criminal histories, particularly those involving interference with law enforcement, from specific roles. The bill also introduces a broader classification of offenses as third-degree felonies, including theft, fraud, and misconduct, while specifying actions like introducing contraband into correctional facilities as felonies as well. The proposed changes aim to strengthen the legal framework surrounding these offenses and are set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1042 Filed: 843.025, 397.417, 420.6241, 435.04, 921.0022