The bill amends various sections of the Florida Statutes to enhance the framework for local government code enforcement, particularly by introducing the role of special magistrates. It updates the legislative intent to include these magistrates and allows local governments to adopt alternative code enforcement systems. Key changes include the requirement for code inspectors to use body cameras, the reclassification of offenses against code enforcement officers, and increased penalties for certain violations. The bill also modifies the notification process for alleged violators, mandating affidavits of delivery in specific circumstances, and establishes procedures for assessing administrative fees and recording enforcement orders in public records.

Additionally, the bill creates a new section, 162.41, which mandates that governmental entities with code inspectors using body cameras must establish policies for their use, maintenance, and data storage. It also reclassifies assaults on code inspectors to align with protections for law enforcement officers, elevating the severity of penalties for such offenses. For example, aggravated battery against a code inspector is raised from a second-degree felony to a first-degree felony. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, aiming to streamline code enforcement processes and enhance accountability.

Statutes affected:
S 1104 Filed: 162.01, 162.02, 162.03, 162.05, 162.07, 162.08, 162.10, 162.12, 784.083