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 is required to order the respondent to surrender all firearms, ammunition, and any concealed weapon licenses to local law enforcement. The law enforcement agency must develop policies for the acceptance, storage, and return of these items, and a receipt must be issued to the respondent at the time of surrender. Additionally, if the injunction is vacated or terminated, the respondent may have their firearms and ammunition returned after confirming their eligibility to possess such items under federal and state law.

The bill also 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 for violating an injunction or foreign protection order who subsequently commits a second violation against the same victim will be charged with a felony of the third degree. This amendment 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