The bill amends section 784.07 of the Florida Statutes to define "utility worker" and enhance protections for these individuals by reclassifying offenses committed against them. A utility worker is defined as someone 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, increasing penalties for assault or battery against them. For example, an assault on a utility worker is reclassified from a second-degree misdemeanor to a first-degree misdemeanor, while a battery is elevated from a first-degree misdemeanor to a third-degree felony.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for the fingerprinting of minors charged with specific offenses, including assault and battery against law enforcement officers, and mandates electronic submission of these fingerprints to the Department of Law Enforcement. It also emphasizes the necessity of background checks for employees and contractors working with children, ensuring that those with disqualifying offenses related to assault or battery against specified persons are excluded from employment. 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
S 1386 c1: 784.07, 901.15, 943.051, 985.11, 985.644