This bill amends Florida Statutes regarding protective injunctions and protection orders, specifically focusing on the surrender of firearms and ammunition by respondents in domestic violence cases. Upon the issuance of a final judgment for protection against domestic violence, the court will require the respondent to surrender all firearms, ammunition, and concealed weapon licenses to local law enforcement. The law enforcement agency is tasked with developing policies for the acceptance, storage, and return of these items. Additionally, the bill allows respondents to transfer surrendered firearms and ammunition to another eligible person under certain conditions, and mandates that firearms and ammunition must be returned if the injunction is vacated or terminated, following a background check.

Furthermore, the bill revises the penalties for violations of injunctions against domestic violence. It changes the language regarding prior convictions, establishing that a person with one prior conviction who commits a second violation will face felony charges, rather than the previous requirement of two prior convictions. This aims to strengthen the enforcement of protective orders and enhance the safety of victims of domestic violence. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 858 Filed: 741.31