The bill, titled "Vassallo's Law," establishes a new section in Florida law, specifically section 901.155, which outlines procedures for law enforcement agencies when a person attempts to surrender for a violation of criminal law without an arrest warrant. The bill defines key terms such as "law enforcement officer," "office," and "surrendering person." It mandates that law enforcement agencies create procedures for interviewing individuals who come forward to surrender, including documenting their identification, notifying officers, and assessing any alerts related to the individual.
Additionally, the bill allows law enforcement officers to temporarily detain or arrest surrendering individuals under certain conditions, as well as to deliver them for involuntary examination if they meet specific criteria. The effective date for this legislation is set for July 1, 2026.