House Bill 1503, known as the "Protect Our Children Act," aims to enhance protections for minors against harmful content accessed through digital devices and to strengthen legal frameworks surrounding sexual offenses. The bill mandates that manufacturers of tablets and smartphones include a filter that activates upon device activation to block access to harmful material for minors, with civil and criminal liabilities for noncompliance. It also increases penalties for adults who lure children under 12, reclassifying such offenses from misdemeanors to felonies, and introduces new definitions and prohibitions regarding inappropriate relationships and harmful communications with minors. The Attorney General is granted authority to enforce these provisions, including issuing subpoenas and seeking civil penalties against violators.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws related to the registration and monitoring of sexual offenders in Florida. It introduces new legal language that requires individuals convicted of certain sexual offenses against minors to register as sexual offenders and outlines the responsibilities of the court in determining the age of offenders and victims. The bill mandates detailed personal information from sexual offenders, including their addresses and vehicle details, and establishes penalties for non-compliance with registration requirements. It also emphasizes the importance of public safety by ensuring that public records related to sexual predators and offenders remain accessible, and it mandates evaluations and treatment for offenders on probation or community control. Overall, HB 1503 seeks to enhance public safety and accountability regarding the protection of minors and the management of sexual offenders in Florida.

Statutes affected:
H 1503 Filed: 787.025, 943.0435, 944.606, 944.607