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HB 277

Excise tax; rooms, lodgings, and accommodations; change certain definitions

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Shaw Blackmon and 3 co-sponsors

HB 277 enhances Florida's response to domestic violence by improving emergency systems, training responders, and increasing support and accountability for victims and offenders.

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Bill Summary · HB 277

Summary of HB 277: Violent Criminal Offenses

Bill Number: HB 277
Title: Violent Criminal Offenses
Status: Now in Criminal Justice Subcommittee
Introduced: October 28, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Domestic Relations, Railroads and Other Regulated Utilities

Purpose and Intent

HB 277, titled the "Domestic Emergency and Batterers Reform and Accountability Act," aims to enhance the response to domestic violence and related offenses in Florida. The bill seeks to improve emergency communication systems, establish training requirements for emergency responders, and create mechanisms for monitoring and accountability in domestic violence cases.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant amendments and new provisions:

  1. Emergency Communications System:

    • Requires the emergency communications state plan to include a system to flag addresses associated with domestic violence incidents.
    • Flags will remain active for one year and reset with each new incident at the same address.

  2. Training for Emergency Responders:

    • Mandates that emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics complete training on domestic violence, dating violence, and strangulation for certification and recertification.
    • The Department of Health will establish training criteria and requirements.

  3. Firefighter Training:

    • The Division of State Fire Marshal will create training courses on domestic violence for both career and volunteer firefighters.

  4. Definition and Monitoring:

    • Revises the definition of "domestic violence" and introduces the term "electronic monitoring."
    • Courts may order electronic monitoring for individuals involved in domestic violence cases.

  5. Domestic Violence Diversion Program:

    • Establishes a diversion program for certain offenders, requiring supervision by the Department of Corrections.
    • Participants must accept specific conditions and submit to treatment plans.

  6. Enhanced Law Enforcement Protocols:

    • Law enforcement officers must provide specific information to victims and follow up after incidents.
    • Body cameras must be activated during investigations of domestic violence incidents.

  7. Injunctions and Penalties:

    • Revises the information required in petitions for injunctions against domestic violence and increases penalties for violations.
    • Courts may impose electronic monitoring and require offenders to pay for monitoring services.

  8. Relocation Assistance:

    • Increases financial assistance for victims of domestic violence seeking relocation.

Impact

This legislation is designed to improve the safety and support for victims of domestic violence in Florida. It will affect:

  • Victims of Domestic Violence: Enhanced support and resources for victims, including better communication with emergency services and increased financial assistance.
  • Emergency Responders: New training requirements for EMTs, paramedics, and firefighters to better handle domestic violence situations.
  • Law Enforcement: Revised protocols for responding to domestic violence incidents, including mandatory follow-ups and body camera usage.

Procedural Timeline

  • October 28, 2025: Bill filed.
  • November 4, 2025: Referred to multiple subcommittees, including Criminal Justice, Civil Justice & Claims, Justice Budget, and Judiciary Committee.
  • Current Status: Now in the Criminal Justice Subcommittee for further consideration.

This summary provides an overview of HB 277, highlighting its intent to reform how domestic violence cases are handled in Florida, ensuring better protection and support for victims while holding offenders accountable.

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

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