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HB 35

Habitual Traffic Offender Designation

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Webster Barnaby

HB 35 increases penalties for driving without a license in Florida, imposing jail time for repeat offenders and harsher consequences for causing harm.

Chapter No. 2026-53
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Bill Summary · HB 35

Summary of HB 35: Driving Without a License

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: HB 35
- Title: Driving Without a License
- Status: PCS added to Criminal Justice Subcommittee agenda
- Introduced: September 23, 2025
- Classification: Bill
- Subject: Motor Vehicles, Criminal Procedure and Corrections
- Primary Sponsor: Barnaby

Purpose and Intent

HB 35, also known as "Isaiah's Law," aims to strengthen penalties for individuals who drive without a valid driver’s license in Florida. The bill seeks to enhance public safety by imposing stricter consequences for repeat offenders and those who cause serious harm while driving without a license.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several amendments to existing Florida Statutes, including:

  1. Increased Criminal Penalties:

    • First Conviction: Misdemeanor of the first degree, with a mandatory minimum jail sentence of 10 days.
    • Second Conviction: Felony misdemeanor of the third degree.
    • Third or Subsequent Conviction: Felony misdemeanor of the second degree, with a mandatory minimum jail sentence of 10 days.
    • Fourth or Subsequent Conviction: Felony of the first degree.

  2. Definition of Habitual Traffic Offender:

    • The bill revises the definition to include individuals who have three or more convictions for driving without a valid license within a five-year period.

  3. Enhanced Penalties for Causing Harm:

    • If a person drives without a license and causes death or serious bodily injury, they will face a felony of the second degree.

  4. Offense Severity Ranking:

    • The bill amends the offense severity ranking chart to reflect the new classifications for driving without a license and causing harm.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Drivers: Individuals who operate a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s license will face increased penalties.
  • Law Enforcement: Officers will have clearer guidelines for enforcing penalties related to driving without a license.
  • Judicial System: Courts will handle more severe cases and increased sentencing requirements.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was filed on September 23, 2025, and has undergone several legislative actions:
    • October 1, 2025: Referred to the Criminal Justice Subcommittee and Judiciary Committee.
    • November 10, 2025: Added to the Criminal Justice Subcommittee agenda for further discussion.

Conclusion

HB 35 represents a significant shift in Florida's approach to handling offenses related to driving without a license. By increasing penalties and redefining habitual offenders, the bill aims to deter such behavior and enhance road safety. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final form and implementation of these changes.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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