The proposed bill amends Florida Statutes to introduce new criminal penalties for individuals who contribute to or induce minors to commit serious offenses. It adds a new subsection to section 827.04, establishing penalties for actions that encourage a child to commit a felony, with varying degrees of punishment based on the offense's severity. Additionally, a new section, 827.12, is created to impose penalties on adults who entice minors to commit animal cruelty violations, categorizing these actions as third-degree felonies. The bill also amends the offense severity ranking chart in section 921.0022 to reflect a stricter stance on animal cruelty, alongside conforming amendments to ensure consistency with the new provisions.

Moreover, the bill addresses child abuse related to the impregnation of minors by replacing the previous statute concerning such offenses and mandating electronic reporting to law enforcement agencies. It clarifies that health care professionals are exempt from reporting in cases where it would interfere with medical services for pregnant minors. The legislation enhances the admissibility of paternity evidence in sexual offense prosecutions against minors and directs the Department of Children and Families to create programs targeting males over 21 who commit offenses against girls under 16. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1732 c1: 39.201, 90.4025, 382.356, 409.2355, 742.107