House Bill 1521 introduces substantial reforms to Florida's criminal justice system, focusing on the treatment of individuals with criminal records, particularly regarding housing and voting rights. The bill establishes a new section, 83.455, which prohibits landlords from asking about a prospective tenant's criminal history before making a "conditional offer" to rent, and limits the types of offenses that can be considered afterward. It also amends existing laws to eliminate the requirement for full payment of financial obligations to restore voting rights and ensures that individuals convicted of felonies have their citizenship rights automatically restored. Additionally, the bill allows for the retroactive application of updated sentencing guidelines for certain drug trafficking offenses and modifies the definition of "juvenile offender" for sentencing reviews.

Moreover, the bill sets forth mandatory minimum sentences and fines for drug offenses based on the quantity of the substance involved, with specific penalties outlined for varying amounts. It also revises the process for transferring juvenile offenders to adult court, requiring a juvenile court judge to assess the appropriateness of adult sanctions before charges can be filed. A notable provision allows judges to return juvenile offenders to the juvenile division if deemed unfit for adult sanctions, with the rationale documented in a written order. The bill aims to enhance rehabilitation opportunities and reduce barriers for individuals with criminal records, promoting their reintegration into society, and is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 1521 Filed: 940.05, 921.1402, 985.557