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HB 79

Firearm Safe Handling and Secure Storage Tax Credit Act; enact

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sharon Cooper and 5 co-sponsors

HB 79 mandates landlords to install safety features in rental properties with pools or nearby water, enhancing protection against drowning, especially for children.

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Bill Summary · HB 79

Summary of HB 79: Water Safety Requirements for the Rental of Residential Property

Bill Number: HB 79
Introduced: October 02, 2025
Current Status: Now in Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee
Effective Date: July 1, 2026
Primary Sponsor: Maggard

Purpose and Intent

HB 79 aims to enhance water safety standards for residential properties that are rented out to tenants. The bill seeks to ensure that properties with swimming pools or access to standing bodies of water are equipped with specific safety features to protect residents, particularly children, from potential drowning hazards.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several important changes to existing Florida Statutes:

  1. Amendment to Section 83.51:

    • A new subsection (4) is added, which mandates that landlords must equip dwelling units with at least one safety feature if:
      • The unit has a residential swimming pool, or
      • There is access to a standing body of water within 150 yards of the dwelling.
    • Failure to comply with this requirement constitutes a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable under sections 775.082 or 775.083 of Florida Statutes.

  2. Addition to Section 515.27:

    • A new subsection (3) is added, reinforcing the requirement for property owners who offer residential rentals with swimming pools or nearby standing water to maintain at least one safety feature at all times during the rental period.
    • Similar to the previous provision, violations will also result in a misdemeanor of the second degree.

Affected Parties

  • Landlords and Property Owners: Those renting out residential properties with swimming pools or access to standing water will be directly impacted, as they will need to ensure compliance with the new safety requirements.
  • Tenants and Residents: The bill aims to enhance safety for individuals living in or renting these properties, particularly children who may be at risk of drowning.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was filed on October 2, 2025, and has since been referred to multiple subcommittees, including:
    • Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee
    • Housing, Agriculture & Tourism Subcommittee
    • Judiciary Committee
  • The bill is currently in the Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee for further consideration.

Conclusion

HB 79 represents a proactive approach to improving water safety in residential rental properties in Florida. By mandating specific safety features, the bill aims to reduce the risk of drowning incidents and promote a safer living environment for tenants. The effective date of the legislation is set for July 1, 2026, allowing time for landlords to adapt to the new requirements.

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

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