Bill > S0296

This bill expands protections and services for victims of both domestic and dating violence by establishing several key provisions. The bill requires the Division of Telecommunications to conduct a feasibility study for creating a web-based 911 alert system specifically designed for domestic and dating violence victims, which would include features like real-time data-sharing between public safety answering points (PSAPs) and law enforcement, unique telephone numbers for users, and the ability to transmit specific data during emergency calls. The bill formally defines "dating violence" as a range of harmful acts committed by someone with a significant romantic or intimate relationship with the victim, and extends the existing Address Confidentiality Program to include dating violence victims. This means that victims of dating violence can now apply to have a confidential address designated by the Attorney General to help protect their safety, and the Attorney General must designate state, local, and nonprofit agencies to assist these applicants. Additionally, the bill updates various statutes to consistently recognize dating violence alongside domestic violence, ensuring that victims of dating violence receive similar protections, information, and support within the criminal justice system. The feasibility study results are to be reported to the Legislature by January 31, 2027, and the bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance

Criminal Justice (Senate)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/296