This bill amends Florida Statutes to enhance the legal framework surrounding crimes motivated by prejudice. It expands the definitions of prejudice to include gender, and specifies that crimes can be reclassified if they are based, in whole or in part, on the actual or perceived characteristics of the victim, including race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, homeless status, advanced age, and mental or physical disabilities. The bill also introduces new definitions for terms such as "victim," which now encompasses individuals and organizations affected by such crimes, and clarifies the criteria for reclassification of penalties for misdemeanors and felonies based on these prejudicial motivations.

Additionally, the bill revises existing definitions related to mental or physical disabilities and aligns provisions in the Florida Communications Fraud Act with the new definitions and reclassification criteria. It establishes that penalties for crimes against vulnerable populations, including those with mental or physical disabilities, will be reclassified similarly to other hate crimes. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to provide stronger protections for victims of prejudice-based crimes in Florida.

Statutes affected:
S 1312 Filed: 775.085, 775.0863, 817.034