The proposed bill introduces significant changes to Florida's legal framework concerning the age of victims in certain criminal offenses by creating Section 787.001. This new section establishes that ignorance, misrepresentation, or a bona fide belief regarding a victim's age cannot be used as defenses in cases where the victim's age is a critical element of the offense, with an exception noted for Section 787.30. Additionally, the bill amends Section 787.025, raising the age threshold for luring or enticing a child from under 12 to under 14 years, and reclassifies these offenses from misdemeanors to felonies of varying degrees based on prior convictions. The offense severity ranking chart in Section 921.0022 is also updated to reflect these changes, including a second-degree felony classification for repeat offenders.

Moreover, the bill proposes amendments to laws related to drug trafficking and sexual offender reporting requirements. It establishes stricter penalties for trafficking various controlled substances, with specific weight thresholds, and enhances penalties for drug-related offenses occurring within 1,000 feet of schools and parks. The bill also increases penalties for sexual offenders who fail to comply with registration requirements or provide accurate information, including the submission of digitized photographs. This comprehensive approach aims to bolster public safety through stricter enforcement of drug laws and regulations governing sexual offenders, with an effective date set for October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1136 Filed: 787.025, 921.0022
S 1136 c1: 921.0022