The bill amends Section 933.05 of the Florida Statutes, which pertains to the issuance and return of search warrants. It specifies that search warrants cannot be issued in blank and must be based on probable cause supported by affidavits. The bill revises the timeframe for returning search warrants, particularly for those related to computers, computer systems, and electronic devices. Specifically, it changes the return period from 45 days to 365 days for warrants concerning electronic devices that are in the possession of law enforcement at the time of issuance.
The effective date for this amendment is set for July 1, 2026. This change aims to provide law enforcement with a more extended period to process and return search warrants related to electronic devices, reflecting the complexities involved in handling digital evidence.
Statutes affected: H 359 Filed: 933.05