The bill amends Florida Statutes to enhance protections for utility workers by defining the term "utility worker" and reclassifying offenses committed against them while they are engaged in work on critical infrastructure. Specifically, the bill adds a new definition for utility workers, requiring them to display visible identification that indicates their employment with a utility entity responsible for public services such as electricity, gas, water, and communications. Additionally, the bill reclassifies various offenses against utility workers, similar to existing protections for law enforcement and emergency personnel, increasing the severity of penalties for assault and battery against these workers.
The bill also makes conforming amendments to several sections of Florida Statutes, including provisions related to arrest without a warrant, criminal justice information collection, and fingerprinting of minors charged with specific offenses. Notably, it updates the language to include utility workers alongside other specified personnel in the context of assault and battery offenses. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: S 1386 Filed: 784.07, 901.15, 943.051, 985.11, 985.644
S 1386 c1: 784.07, 901.15, 943.051, 985.11, 985.644
S 1386 c2: 784.07, 901.15, 943.051, 985.11, 985.644
S 1386 er: 784.07, 901.15, 943.051, 985.11, 985.644