Florida is about to get a little different starting July 1, as a new wave of state laws officially take effect across the Sunshine State. In fact, nearly 90 new laws are going into effect next month, according to FOX 13 Tampa Bay.
From traffic violations and high school diploma requirements to domestic violence protections, here’s a breakdown of some of the most notable and what they mean for you.
1. HB 35: Habitual Traffic Offenders
This law amends the definition of a habitual traffic offender to include “driving without a valid license” to the list of offenses. Once designated, a person can face third-degree felony charges for subsequently getting behind the wheel. You can read more about this here.
2. HB 178: School Athletics
HB 178 allows head coaches of sports teams to use their personal funds — up to $15,000 per athletic team per year — to support student-athletes. With written parental consent, these funds includes help in the form of food, transportation and recovery services. You can read more about this here.
3. HB 803: Building Permit Exemptions
A plus for homeowners, DIYers and contractors, this bill overhauls the state’s building permit and inspection framework. It removes the permit requirement for certain non-structural home improvements valued at $7,500 or less. This exemption doesn’t apply to structural, electrical, plumbing or mechanical work, nor does it apply to homes in designated flood hazard areas. The bill also limits HOAs from requiring permits for architectural reviews. You can read more about this here.
4. HB 453: High School Diplomas
House Bill 453 gives high school students more flexibility to graduate by allowing them to substitute two years of marching band for both mandatory P.E. and performing arts credits. Students with disabilities may also participate in the Special Olympics to meet physical education requirement for standard high school diploma. You can read more about this law here.
5. HB 445 & SB 212: Child Exploitation & Dangerous Crimes
These are among the most intensely covered criminal justice updates. House Bill 445 adds certain computer pornography and child exploitation offenses to the state’s list of dangerous crimes, severely impacting a defendant’s bail options. Senate Bill 212 bans convicted sex offenders from living, working or loitering near public pools, schools, parks, playgrounds and any place where children congregate. Such offenders may be arrested without a warrant for violations.
6 HB 277: Domestic Violence
Beginning July 1st, repeat domestic violence offenders will receive enhanced penalties, and victims’ relocation assistance claims will be increased from $1,500 to $2,500 (lifetime maximum from $3,000 to $5,000). Additionally, the bill allows judges to include pets in protective injunctions. You can read more about this law here.
