The bill amends section 92.55 of the Florida Statutes to enhance protections for certain vulnerable individuals involved in judicial proceedings, specifically victims or witnesses under the age of 18, individuals with intellectual disabilities, and victims of sexual offenses. It introduces a new provision that mandates a pro se defendant to communicate with these individuals through standby counsel during trials, hearings, or depositions. This requirement can be initiated by a motion from any party involved, a parent, guardian, attorney, guardian ad litem, or other appointed advocate, or by the court's own motion.

The effective date for this new provision is set for July 1, 2026. The bill aims to ensure that vulnerable victims and witnesses are protected from direct questioning by pro se defendants, thereby promoting a more sensitive and respectful judicial process for those who may be at a disadvantage in legal settings.