Bill > S0494

This bill, named "Dexter's Law," introduces new provisions related to animal cruelty in Florida. The bill requires the Department of Law Enforcement to create a public, searchable online database starting January 1, 2026, which will list the names of individuals convicted of or who have pleaded guilty or no contest to animal cruelty offenses. Additionally, the bill modifies the state's Criminal Punishment Code sentencing guidelines to include a sentencing multiplier for aggravated animal cruelty cases. Specifically, if someone is convicted of knowingly and intentionally torturing or tormenting an animal in a way that causes injury, mutilation, or death, their sentence points will be multiplied by 1.25. The definition of "animal" for this provision excludes agricultural animals and captive wildlife authorized under state regulations. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and aims to increase transparency and impose stricter penalties for severe cases of animal abuse by creating a public registry and enhancing potential criminal sentences for offenders.

Budget and Finance

Criminal Justice (Senate)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/494