This bill amends section 784.07 of the Florida Statutes to include protections for contractors performing state functions, which are defined as individuals employed by businesses contracted by the state to carry out various duties such as construction and maintenance. The bill introduces a new classification for offenses committed against these contractors while they are engaged in their official duties, aligning their protections with those already afforded to law enforcement officers and other specified personnel.

Specifically, the bill reclassifies certain offenses against contractors performing state functions, increasing the severity of penalties for assault and battery. For instance, an assault against a contractor would be reclassified from a second-degree misdemeanor to a first-degree misdemeanor, while a battery would escalate from a first-degree misdemeanor to a third-degree felony. The bill also stipulates minimum sentences for aggravated offenses, ensuring that those who commit such acts against contractors face significant legal consequences. The effective date for this legislation is set for July 1, 2025.