This bill aims to enhance public safety in Florida through various provisions that support first responders and improve emergency response measures. It allows first responder amputees to continue serving without accommodations if they meet certification requirements. The legislation establishes the Florida Medal of Valor and the Florida Blue/Red Heart Medal to honor first responders who show exceptional bravery or are injured in the line of duty, with a board appointed by the Governor and legislative leaders to evaluate award applications. Additionally, the bill prohibits the use of motor vehicle kill switches, increases penalties for selling kratom to individuals under 21, and introduces mandatory minimum sentences for attempted murder against certain justice personnel.

Further amendments include expanded rights for specific individuals to carry concealed firearms, enhanced penalties for depriving law enforcement officers of their equipment, and revised requirements for reporting missing persons. The bill also establishes the Critical Infrastructure Mapping Grant Program to create electronic maps of critical infrastructure and public gathering places to aid emergency responses. It mandates detention facilities to develop procedures for blood testing inmates for infectious diseases, including HIV, and clarifies the confidentiality of test results while allowing disclosure to relevant officials. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1444 Filed: 775.0823, 782.065, 790.051, 790.052, 817.49, 951.27
S 1444 c1: 775.0823, 790.051, 790.052, 817.49, 951.27, 843.025, 397.417, 420.6241, 435.04, 914.25, 943.0595
S 1444 c2: 775.0823, 790.051, 790.06, 937.022, 951.27, 843.025, 397.417, 420.6241, 914.25, 943.0595
S 1444 c3: 775.0823, 790.052, 843.025, 937.022, 951.27