New Floridaland Law effective July 1, 2025

[FL SAAC]

NEW FLORIDA LAWS NOW IN EFFECT (July 1, 2025)

Dozens of new laws just took effect in Florida! Here are some key ones you should know about:

>"Dexter's Law" (HB 255) - Animal Cruelty

- Harsher penalties for animal cruelty, including intentionally torturing animals
- Creates a searchable database of convicted animal abusers (effective Jan 2026)
- Named after shelter dog "Dexter" from our own county - adopted and later found beheaded at Fort De Soto Park

>Dangerous Excessive Speeding (HB 351)

- CREATES new criminal offense: Going 50+ mph over speed limit OR 100+ mph anywhere
- 1st offense: Up to 30 days jail + $500 fine
- Repeat offenses: Up to 90 days jail + $1,000 fine + license revocation
- (Previously speeding was just a civil traffic infraction - now you can be arrested)

>Boater Freedom Act (SB 1388)

- NEW requirements: Law enforcement must have probable cause to conduct vessel stops
- Safety or marine equipment violations are now secondary offenses

>Fentanyl Dealer Penalties (SB 612)

- NEW: Minors under 18 can now face third-degree murder charges if the drugs they dealt cause death
- (Previous law only applied to adults 18+)
- Classified as second-degree felony

>"Swatting" Penalties (HB 279)

- Enhanced felony charges if false 911 calls result in injury or death
- Mandatory restitution to victims and emergency response costs

 >"No Wake" Law for Flooded Streets (SB 462)

- NEW: Local governments can create slow speed zones on flooded streets
- Illegal to drive fast enough to create "excessive wake" that damages property
- Law enforcement can issue tickets for violations
- (Inspired by damage from Hurricanes Helene and Milton in Pinellas County)

Head over to the official Florida Senate website to see a comprehensive list 👉 https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bills/2025

Search for bills with effective date July 1, 2025.