The bill proposes the creation of a new section, 782.073, in the Florida Statutes, which establishes a rebuttable presumption in favor of the defense in cases where a defendant is charged with second-degree murder or manslaughter. This presumption applies specifically when a forensic toxicology report indicates the presence of a Schedule I controlled substance in the alleged victim at the time of death. The intent of this legislation is to provide a legal framework that acknowledges the potential influence of controlled substances on the circumstances surrounding a death.

The effective date for this new law is set for July 1, 2025. By introducing this rebuttable presumption, the bill aims to address the complexities involved in cases of alleged homicide or manslaughter where drug use may be a significant factor in the victim's death.