This bill amends Florida law regarding sexual offenders and predators, specifically addressing residency restrictions and prohibitions near certain locations frequented by children. It introduces definitions for "public bathing place" and "public swimming pool," and establishes that individuals convicted of specific sexual offenses against victims under 16 years of age cannot reside within 1,000 feet of schools, child care facilities, parks, public swimming pools, public bathing places, or playgrounds. Additionally, it creates a new section that prohibits these individuals from being within 200 feet of the same locations, with specified penalties for violations. The bill also requires sexual offenders or predators to notify schools or child care facilities of their status under certain circumstances and allows for warrantless arrests if law enforcement has probable cause to believe an offender has violated the proximity restrictions.

Furthermore, the bill amends section 948.30 of the Florida Statutes by adding new subsections (6) and (7) that impose additional conditions for probationers or community controllees convicted of certain sex offenses committed on or after July 1, 2026. Subsection (6) mandates that individuals convicted of specific offenses against victims under 18 years of age must not live within 1,000 feet of any public swimming pool or bathing place and are prohibited from working at such locations, although they are not required to relocate if they are already compliant when a new facility is established nearby. Subsection (7) requires probationers or community controllees with prior convictions for similar offenses against minors to obtain prior approval from their supervising officer before visiting public swimming pools or bathing places. These measures aim to enhance public safety and protect vulnerable populations, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 212 Filed: 514.011, 943.04351
S 212 c1: 856.022, 943.04351