Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has enacted a series of new laws covering changes from ethics rules to the designation of commemorative days and modifications to public records access.
These measures aim to address a variety of issues, including raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl, regulating cryptocurrencies, and protecting historic buildings, among others.
Among the notable laws is HB 259, which establishes August 21 as “Fentanyl Awareness and Education Day.” This measure seeks to increase knowledge about the dangers associated with the use of this substance and the risks of overdose. The law will take effect on July 1.
These Are All the Laws Taking Effect in Florida on July 1
Below, all the laws that will take effect starting July 1 in Florida:
SB 348: prohibits candidates, elected public officials, appointees, and public employees from “knowingly misrepresenting their service records, awards, or qualifications in the United States Armed Forces.”
It also prevents the use of any uniform, medal, or insignia that they are not authorized to wear.
SB 356: designates January 27 as “Holocaust Remembrance Day.” This date will allow public schools to teach about the impacts of the Holocaust and antisemitism, as well as highlight the positive contributions of the Jewish community to humanity.
HB 515: introduces a legal framework for creditors to secure liens on digital assets belonging to debtors.
SB 582: aims to protect historic sites by allowing code enforcement boards or special magistrates to impose higher fines for the intentional and unauthorized demolition of buildings listed in the National Register of Historic Places. This regulation will also take effect on July 1.
HB 1487: updates the requirements for first responder agencies to receive certain exemptions and removes the limitation on how many can be granted. Additionally, it authorizes ambulance drivers to use red lights on their vehicles, depending on the circumstances.
Laws Signed by DeSantis That Took Effect on May 23
During the round of laws signed by DeSantis, many did not have to wait weeks or months to take effect, as they became effective on May 23. These include:
HB 519: allows certified paramedics to administer controlled substances under supervision while providing emergency services.
SB 1490: transfers the operation of the Managed Medical Care Plan for Children from the Department of Health to the Agency for Health Care Administration. This law is already in effect following its enactment.
SB 1640: creates an exemption for lethality assessment forms used in domestic violence cases to protect the privacy of victims. This exemption will be reviewed in 2030, as stipulated by the Sunset Review Law of Open Government. The law took effect immediately.
SB 7006 maintains an exemption for blueprints, diagrams, and structural elements related to the infrastructure of the 911 system, including towers, antennas, and equipment. This regulation is also in effect since its signing.
These laws reflect a broad spectrum of legislative priorities in Florida, from protecting public health and safety to preserving history and regulating new technologies.
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