As of October 1, 2019, there are 27 laws now in effect. From texting while
driving to hazing, there are many new and updated laws Florida residents
must know about.
Here are several criminal laws that are now effective immediately:
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Texting while driving (HB 107) – Although this law took effect on July 1, starting this month all
motorists must be hands-free when driving through school and work zones.
Until the end of the year, police offices will issue written or verbal
warnings for anyone who violates this law. On January 1, 2020, violating
this law results in a citation and three points on the driver’s license.
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Hazing (HB 1080) – Commonly known as “Andrew’s Law” after the death
of FSU student Andrew Coffey in a hazing incident, this law makes hazing
that leads to permanent injury a third-degree felony, which results in
a prison term of up to five yeas and maximum $5,000 fine upon conviction.
In addition, it is now a first-degree misdemeanor to plan or solicit the
involvement of others in a hazing incident. Lastly, anyone who calls for
medical assistance at a hazing incident is given immunity.
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Veterans’ courts (SB 910) – Receiving an honorable discharge is no longer an eligibility requirement
to participate in veterans’ court. Furthermore, the law also expands
the eligibility requirement for treatment options ordered by the court.
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Police dogs and horses (SB 96) – Killing or causing great bodily harm to a police, search-and-rescue,
or fire dog or police horse is a second-degree felony, which is punishable
by a prison sentence of up to 15 years and maximum $10,000 fine. The previous
law made this crime a third-degree felony.
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Child-like sex dolls (SB 160) – Showing, selling, or gifting a child-like sex doll is a first-degree
misdemeanor, which carries a maximum one-year jail term and a fine not
exceeding $1,000. A subsequent offense is a third-degree felony.
If you’ve been arrested in Daytona Beach,
contact the Law Offices of Robert Stepniak today at (386) 253-4750 today.