Numerous laws, including one providing benefits to first responders diagnosed with PTSD and one aimed against animal cruelty, went into effect in Florida on Monday.
The following are new laws that are in effect in Florida:
Senate Bill 1576: "Ponce's Law"
- Requires animal shelters that take in stray or lost dogs or cats to establish policies to make sure efforts are made to quickly return animals to owners.
- Law authorizes courts to prohibit some offenders, specifically those convicted of animal cruelty, from owning or having custody over animals.
Senate Bill 376
- Provides first responders diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder with benefits as it is now categorized as an occupational disease. Physical injury is not required and benefits are not subject to limitations.
House Bill 523
- Makes trespassing on airport property with intent to cause injuries, damage or disruption a third-degree felony.
House Bill 135
- Requires language in motor vehicle registration applications to indicate whether an applicant is deaf or hard of hearing.
House Bill 55
- Requires the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to provide additional payment options to firearms dealers, importers and manufacturers when paying for criminal history checks. Credit cards, debit cards and electronic fund transfers should be accepted under the new law.
