This bill amends several sections of Florida law to establish stricter criminal penalties for individuals who contribute to or induce minors to commit offenses, particularly those related to animal cruelty and sexual activities involving animals. It introduces new subsections in sections 827.04, 828.12, 828.122, and 828.126, outlining penalties for causing or enticing a minor to engage in these offenses, with varying degrees of severity from misdemeanors to felonies. The bill also modifies the offense severity ranking chart in section 921.0022 to increase penalties for fighting or baiting animals and categorizes actions by individuals aged 18 and older who entice minors into these offenses as felonies of the third degree.

Additionally, the bill enhances the legal framework surrounding the reporting and prosecution of sexual offenses involving minors, particularly addressing the impregnation of minors by individuals over 21. It specifies new reporting requirements under section 827.04(4) and establishes protocols for sharing birth certificate information and admissibility of paternity evidence in related prosecutions. The Department of Children and Families is directed to create programs aimed at prosecuting such offenses, with funding dependent on appropriated resources. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, aiming to strengthen protections for minors and promote public safety.

Statutes affected:
S 676 Filed: 39.201, 90.4025, 382.356, 409.2355, 742.107