The bill amends Florida Statutes to include "migrant vessels" in the legal framework governing the relocation and removal of derelict vessels. It defines a "migrant vessel" as an irregularly constructed maritime vessel used for undocumented immigrant transportation, built with makeshift materials, and meeting specific criteria such as lacking a hull identification number. The bill updates existing provisions to prohibit leaving both derelict and migrant vessels on state waters for more than 24 hours and allows for their removal and disposal through grants and federal disaster funds.

Additionally, the bill outlines procedures for law enforcement regarding the disposition of migrant vessels, similar to those for derelict vessels. It mandates that law enforcement officers post notices on migrant vessels found unlawfully on public property, informing owners of their obligation to remove the vessels within a specified timeframe. If not removed, the vessels may be destroyed or disposed of by the law enforcement agency. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 1285 Filed: 705.103
H 1285 c1: 705.103