The bill CS/HB 1351 amends the Florida Sexual Predators Act to enhance the definitions and reporting requirements for sexual predators and offenders. It introduces new definitions for terms such as "permanent residence," "temporary residence," and "transient residence," while also adding an "in-state travel residence" category. Sexual predators are now required to report any changes in their residence status, including temporary and transient locations, within 48 hours. The bill also mandates that they provide detailed information about their vehicles, employment, and electronic communication identifiers, and requires in-person reporting to the sheriff's office and the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles after any changes in their status.
Additionally, the bill establishes a more rigorous registration process, requiring sexual predators to report in person annually during their birthday month and every third month thereafter. It emphasizes the need for accurate record-keeping and includes penalties for non-compliance, classifying various failures to register or report changes as felonies of the third degree. The legislation also mandates that the Department of Corrections and local law enforcement agencies verify the addresses of sexual predators and offenders at least four times per year, ensuring adherence to federal standards, particularly the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.