Russell A. Spatz

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New Laws Took Effect In Florida on October 1st. 

by | Oct 7, 2021 | Criminal Charges, Miami Criminal Law Blog |

Earlier this year, many new laws took effect in the state of Florida after being passed during the legislative session back in April. Last Friday, October 1st more laws took effect. Here are some of the newest laws, that you should know about:

  • State regulatory framework for the sale of electronic cigarettes: The bill to raise the legal age to smoke tobacco and vape to 21 became law. The law, originally concerned with youth vaping, will also prevent regulations on such things as the marketing and sale of tobacco products.
  • Child safety: There is a new “Child Safety Alarm Act” that requires vehicles used by child-care facilities to be equipped with an alarm that will trigger if a minor remains on board when the vehicle is parked. This will prevent children from being endangered in a hot car and similar accidents.
  • Child welfare: This new law requires the case record of every child under the supervision or custody of the Department of Children and Families, providers contracting with the Department, or the Department´s agents to have a case record face sheet. It includes best interest factors that entities should consider when determining the placement of a child. Furthermore, the bill will provide conditions under which a child may be removed from a caregiver´s home.
  • Electronic crimes: This law prohibits individuals from sending, transmitting, or posting written or electronic record when someone makes a threat to kill or harm another person, or to conduct an act of terrorism.
  • Corporate espionage: This law prohibits theft of trade secrets, as well as trafficking in trade secrets. It also increases the offense severity ranking for an offense committed with intent.
  • Specialty and Special license plates: The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles may not issue specialty license plates until enough plates are discontinued.
  • Crime Stoppers: The Privileged Communications Made to Crime Stoppers Organizations law prohibits a person from willfully attempting to obtain or disclose privileged communication or protected information. It also provides immunity from civil liability for certain actions by specified persons.
  • Unlawful use of DNA: With this new law taking effect, DNA analysis and disclosure of DNA analysis results are prohibited without express consent. It will also remove criminal penalties, and prohibit the collection or retention of DNA samples.

In addition to these laws taking effect, Florida´s minimum wage increased from $8.65 to $10 per hour. This is the largest increase in Florida´s history.

It is important to know the laws of the state you reside in, old ones and new ones because it affects you, and it will help you know what to do if you´re ever subject to a legal mishap. It doesn´t matter the type of crime you may be charged with, appropriate legal representation is important. Criminal defense attorney Russell Spatz has more than 40 years of experience and is ready to take on your case. Call 305-442-0200 to schedule a meeting with him and discuss your legal situation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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