The Protect Our Children Act aims to enhance protections for minors against harmful online content and strengthen penalties for child exploitation offenses. Starting January 1, 2026, manufacturers of tablets and smartphones must automatically enable a filter to block access to harmful material for minors in Florida, with civil and criminal liabilities imposed for non-compliance. The bill also reclassifies offenses related to luring or enticing children under 12 from misdemeanors to felonies, introduces new definitions for inappropriate relationships, and prohibits explicit communication with minors by individuals aged 18 or older. The Attorney General is granted enforcement authority, including the ability to issue subpoenas and seek civil penalties.

Additionally, the bill amends existing statutes to include new offenses related to harmful communication with minors as qualifying for sexual offender registration, emphasizing the seriousness of such offenses. It outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Law Enforcement in notifying agencies about changes in sexual offender status and reinforces the presumption against shared parental responsibility for convicted individuals. The bill also establishes specific conditions for releasees who have committed offenses against minors, including prohibitions on visiting certain locations and engaging in child-related activities during holidays. Overall, the legislation aims to create a safer environment for children by imposing stricter regulations and penalties on those who exploit or endanger them.

Statutes affected:
S 1718 Filed: 787.025, 943.0435, 944.606, 944.607