Bill > H0257

This bill increases penalties for prostitution-related offenses, primarily by reclassifying certain existing misdemeanor offenses as felonies and escalating the severity of punishments for repeat offenders. Specifically, the bill modifies Section 796.07 of Florida Statutes to change the penalty structure for prostitution violations, transforming first-time offenses from misdemeanors to third-degree felonies, second-time offenses from misdemeanors to second-degree felonies, and third or subsequent offenses from third-degree felonies to first-degree felonies. The bill also amends related statutes in the healthcare and massage therapy licensing areas to align with these new criminal penalties, such as mandating license suspension or denial for professionals convicted of prostitution-related offenses. Additionally, the bill provides provisions for potential vehicle impoundment when a vehicle is used during a prostitution-related violation and includes specific circumstances under which a vehicle owner can request dismissal of such an impoundment order. These changes aim to strengthen legal consequences for prostitution and related activities while providing some protections for vehicle owners who may be indirectly affected by such violations. The new legal framework will take effect on October 1, 2026.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/257