House Bill 1233 introduces significant amendments to Florida's transportation and public safety laws, focusing on enhancing the state's transportation system and addressing various criminal offenses. The bill establishes a new section requiring the Department of Transportation to coordinate with local governments for federal funding applications aimed at improving infrastructure and congestion relief. It also designates the Department as the primary contact for statewide aerial LiDAR procurement and allows for interagency agreements. Additionally, the bill emphasizes that nonpecuniary factors, such as social justice and environmental considerations, should not influence taxpayer-funded projects unless mandated by federal law.

In terms of public safety, the bill revises penalties for offenses such as shooting into vehicles and introduces new penalties for damaging autonomous vehicles. It also updates criteria for state-funded infrastructure loans in emergencies and enhances performance requirements for paratransit services for individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, the bill categorizes certain offenses, including fraudulent credit card use and soliciting altered sexual depictions without consent, as third-degree felonies. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and aims to streamline processes within the Department of Transportation while ensuring effective use of taxpayer funds.

Statutes affected:
H 1233 Filed: 316.003, 316.008, 322.032, 322.059, 322.15, 324.252, 330.41, 341.041, 790.19, 921.0022