The bill amends section 893.138 of the Florida Statutes to revise the assessment and collection of fines for public nuisances. Key changes include the removal of the previous cap on total fines, allowing for increased penalties for public nuisances, with fines starting at $250 per day and escalating to $500 per day if the nuisance is not abated within one year. The bill also introduces a definition for "legal assistant" and stipulates that attorney fees may be awarded by the nuisance abatement board, considering the contributions of legal assistants who provide meaningful support under an attorney's supervision.

Additionally, the bill establishes a continuing jurisdiction period of one year over properties declared as public nuisances until they are abated. It allows for the foreclosure of liens on properties associated with public nuisances after three months of unpaid fines, and mandates foreclosure if the nuisance remains unabated after two years. The bill clarifies that no lien may be foreclosed on homestead properties and provides protections for property owners against liens if they take prompt action to evict tenants involved in nuisance activities. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 1343 Filed: 893.138
H 1343 c1: 893.138