This bill amends Florida Statutes concerning sexual offenders and sexual predators, specifically updating the definitions and residency restrictions related to "public swimming pools" and "public bathing places." It broadens the definitions to encompass a wider array of water recreation facilities, including spray pools and splash pads, and clarifies that these facilities may be operated by various entities, such as child care facilities. The bill establishes new residency restrictions for individuals convicted of certain sexual offenses, prohibiting them from residing within 1,000 feet of schools, child care facilities, parks, public swimming pools, and public bathing places.

Additionally, the bill requires state agencies and governmental subdivisions to perform comprehensive background checks on individuals before hiring them for positions involving interaction with children at public swimming pools and bathing places. It revises probation and community control conditions for sexual offenders, including prohibitions on contact with minors and restrictions on living near child-centric locations. Offenders whose crimes involve victims under 18 face new restrictions, including the same 1,000-foot residency rule and prohibitions on working or volunteering at child gathering places. The bill also imposes additional limitations for offenders convicted of specific crimes against minors, requiring prior approval for visits to designated locations, with exceptions for attending religious services or picking up their own children or grandchildren. These provisions are set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 45 Filed: 514.011, 943.04351