The bill amends section 784.07 of the Florida Statutes to define "utility worker" and reclassify offenses committed against them, thereby increasing penalties for assault or battery. A utility worker is defined as an individual visibly marked as employed by or contracted with a utility entity providing essential services like electricity, gas, water, or communications. The bill expands the list of protected individuals to include utility workers, aligning the severity of penalties for assaults against them with those against law enforcement officers and other specified personnel.

Additionally, the bill proposes amendments to various sections of the Florida Statutes, including updates to fingerprinting requirements for minors charged with specific offenses and enhanced background screening for employees and contractors working with children. These changes aim to ensure that individuals with disqualifying offenses, particularly those related to assault or battery against public service personnel, are not placed in positions of trust involving children. The proposed changes are set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1386 Filed: 784.07, 901.15, 943.051, 985.11, 985.644