Updates to Florida’s Domestic Violence Laws

November 25 is International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, a day to raise awareness about violence against women and support survivors of domestic violence.

This past session, I was proud to cosponsor important legislation that strengthens protections for victims of domestic violence and holds abusers accountable. HB 277, sponsored by domestic abuse survivor Rep. Tendrich (D-Lake Worth), includes a portion of language from my domestic violence bill, HB 729, which increases penalties for repeat violations of domestic violence injunctions. These injunctions are court orders that protect the victim by mandating that the perpetrator stays away. Data shows that many perpetrators violate these orders. In fact, perpetrators do not have their charges elevated until after the third violation of the injunction. Under the new law, there are no second or third chances. A second violation is elevated to a third-degree felony. It’s our duty to protect domestic violence victims and ensure these court orders deters abusers.

HB 277 also establishes an electronic monitoring pilot program in Pinellas County for perpetrators guilty of misdemeanor and felony domestic violence offenses or violations of a domestic violence injunction. Additionally, the bill requires that sexual and dating violence injunctions are entered into a statewide database, and adds “threatening to kill or injure a family pet” to the list of factors a judge may consider when determining whether to grant a domestic violence injunction.

On International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, we must raise awareness and work towards creating safer communities. If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, resources are available.

• National Domestic Violence Hotline – (1-800) 799-7233

○ This is a free 24/7 confidential hotline for survivors, victims, and those affected by domestic violence.

• Women in Distress – (954) 761-1133

○ Women in Distress offers a 24-hour crisis hotline that provides crisis intervention, advocacy services, and counseling in Broward County.

• 211 Broward – (211)

○ This 24/7 comprehensive helpline provides crisis assistance, including support for domestic violence and abuse.

It is an honor to serve you, and we are here to assist with any issues or concerns. Feel free to contact me anytime at [email protected] or our office at (954) 872-1770. You can also reach me on my personal cell at (954) 668-3662.