The bill CS/CS/HB 1159 amends various sections of Florida law to enhance penalties and redefine terms related to sexual offenses, particularly those involving children. A key change is the replacement of the term "child pornography" with "child sexual abuse material" throughout the legislation, reflecting a focus on the abuse aspect of these crimes. The bill establishes stricter penalties for offenses such as employing or inducing a child to engage in sexual performances, with mandatory minimum sentences for repeat offenders. It also increases the severity of penalties for possession and promotion of child sexual abuse material, reclassifying certain offenses from a third-degree felony to a second-degree felony, and introduces new offenses related to sexual activities involving animals.

Additionally, the bill modifies the criteria for qualifying offenses under probation violations, expanding the list to include serious crimes such as kidnapping, murder, and sexual offenses against minors. It also enhances civil remedies for victims of sexual abuse, allowing them to seek damages for personal or psychological injuries. The legislation aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding child protection and ensure that offenders face more severe consequences for their actions, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 1159 Filed: 794.0116, 827.072, 828.126, 847.0137
H 1159 c1: 794.0116, 827.072, 828.126, 847.0137
H 1159 c2: 39.0138, 92.56, 92.561, 435.07, 456.074, 794.0116, 827.072, 828.126, 836.13, 836.14, 847.001, 847.002, 847.011, 847.0137, 847.0139, 903.011, 948.06, 960.197
H 1159 er: 39.0138, 92.56, 92.561, 435.07, 456.074, 794.0116, 827.072, 828.126, 836.13, 836.14, 847.001, 847.002, 847.011, 847.0137, 847.0139, 903.011, 948.06, 960.197