07/02/2025
NEW LAWS WENT INTO EFFECT IN FLORIDA YESTERDAY, JULY 1, 2025
HB 255: "Dexter's Law" Increases Sentences for Animal Cruelty. This law increases penalties for cases involving severe animal cruelty. Anyone found guilty of serious abuse or killing animals will receive 25% longer sentences. By 2026, a public registry will be in place to track offenders.
HB 279: Swatting Can Now Be a Felony
Making false emergency calls, known as "swatting," is now a felony if someone gets hurt or killed because of a false call. If there is an injury, the person responsible can be charged with a third-degree felony; if someone dies, it's a second-degree felony. Offenders will also be required to pay for the damage and distress caused.
HB 351: Super Speeder Law
Drivers caught going more than 50 mph over the speed limit or exceeding 100 mph will face severe penalties. A first offense results in a mandatory court date and may lead to up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. Repeat offenders could get up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. Previously, speed alone was not enough for criminal charges. That changes today.
HB 593: The "Pam Rock Act" For Dangerous Dogs Named in memory of a postal worker tragically killed by a pack of aggressive dogs, this law mandates that if a dog seriously injures or kills a person, animal control must take action by seizing and quarantining the dog. Additionally, dog owners will need to ensure full transparency, especially when rehoming dogs that have a history of aggression.
SB 612: Strict Penalties for Fentanyl Dealers
Distributing fentanyl or similar deadly substances that result in someone's death can now lead to a charge of third-degree murder for the dealer.