Bill > H0091

This bill amends Florida Statutes section 948.15 to increase the potential probation period for certain misdemeanor offenses involving controlled substances. Currently, misdemeanor probation is generally limited to 6 months, but the bill expands this to allow probation of up to 1 year when alcohol, controlled substances, controlled substance analogs, or certain chemical substances are a significant factor in the offense. The bill specifically defines these substances by referencing existing statutory definitions, including those in sections 893.02, 893.0356, and 877.111(1). Probation services may still be provided by a licensed substance abuse education and intervention program, which can offer both substance abuse education and other probation conditions. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, providing courts with more flexibility in sentencing for misdemeanor offenses involving these types of substances by allowing longer probation periods when deemed appropriate.

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https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/91