This bill establishes new regulations regarding the autopsy procedures for decedents identified as violent offenders, as defined in the newly created section 406.139 of the Florida Statutes. Medical examiners are required to consult with mental health professionals and perform toxicology screenings to determine the presence of psychotropic drugs or intoxicating substances in the decedent's body. The findings from these autopsies must be documented in the final report and reported to the Department of Law Enforcement, the Department of Health, and the Agency for Health Care Administration. Additionally, the bill amends existing statutes to allow the release of certain patient records to law enforcement without patient authorization when investigating violent offenders.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that school safety specialists and safe-school officers receive training on the adverse effects of psychotropic drugs and intoxicating substances, including how to identify and interact with students potentially under the influence of such substances. This training aims to equip school personnel with the necessary skills to manage situations involving students exhibiting irrational or violent behavior due to substance use. The bill also includes amendments to existing laws to ensure compliance with these new training requirements and to facilitate the sharing of relevant medical records with law enforcement agencies. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 54 Filed: 1006.07, 1006.12
S 54 c1: 1006.07, 1006.12, 381.028
S 54 c2: 1006.07, 381.028