This bill amends the Florida Vexatious Litigant Law, specifically section 68.093 of the Florida Statutes, to revise definitions and expand the actions subject to the law. Key changes include the redefinition of "action" to encompass various types of civil proceedings, the adjustment of the time frame for determining vexatious litigants from five to seven years, and the introduction of new criteria for identifying vexatious litigants. The bill also specifies that clerks of the court are prohibited from accepting certain filings from individuals designated as vexatious litigants and establishes a framework for automatic stays in litigation involving such individuals.
Additionally, the bill outlines the process for requiring vexatious litigants to furnish security to cover anticipated litigation expenses, with specific sanctions for failure to comply. It allows courts to impose pre-filing orders to prevent vexatious litigants from initiating new actions without prior approval, and it clarifies the conditions under which an automatic stay remains in effect. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: S 1650 Filed: 68.093
S 1650 c1: 68.093