The bill amends Florida Statutes to strengthen regulations concerning sexual offenders and predators, particularly regarding their residency and activities near children. It introduces a definition for "public swimming pool" and establishes residency restrictions that prohibit individuals convicted of certain sexual offenses from living within 1,000 feet of schools, child care facilities, parks, playgrounds, or public swimming pools. The legislation also outlines penalties for violations based on the severity of the original conviction and requires offenders to notify schools or child care facilities under specific circumstances. Additionally, it allows for warrantless arrests of suspected violators and mandates background checks for individuals seeking employment in child-related environments.
Furthermore, the bill imposes new conditions for probationers and individuals under community control who have committed sex offenses against minors, effective July 1, 2026. It requires these individuals to refrain from living or working near public swimming pools and mandates prior approval from their supervising officer before visiting such facilities. Importantly, if a probationer is already living in a compliant residence when a public swimming pool is established nearby, they will not be deemed in violation of their probation. Overall, the bill aims to enhance protections for children by imposing stricter regulations on sexual offenders in areas frequented by minors.
Statutes affected: H 45 Filed: 514.011, 943.04351
H 45 c1: 943.04351
H 45 c2: 856.022, 943.04351