Several new laws could impact Florida drivers, renters, court cases and more. Here is a quick look at some of the changes:
SB 488
Florida Traffic Law Update
Starting October 1, the threshold for when a driver must notify law enforcement after a crash involving property damage increases from $500 to $2,000.
The requirement to report a crash involving injury or death does not change. Drivers should still consider documenting crashes and contacting law enforcement when appropriate.
SB 488 and SB 490
Florida Driver License Notices Are Going Digital
Beginning October 1, 2026, FLHSMV may provide notice of a driver license cancellation, suspension, revocation, or disqualification by email when the licensee has authorized email notification.
Failure to receive or open the notice does not stop the effective date of the order. Keep your email address current if you authorize electronic notifications.
HB 397
Florida Law Strengthens Enforcement of No-Contact Orders
Beginning October 1, 2026, violating certain court-ordered no-contact conditions while on pretrial release becomes a separate criminal offense.
A willful violation involving specified violent offenses can result in a first-degree misdemeanor, with a second or subsequent violation becoming a third-degree felony.
SB 1332
Changes to Florida Career Offender Registration
Effective October 1, 2026, Florida law changes several reporting and registration requirements for designated career offenders.
The law expands certain reporting requirements, increases penalties for some failures to register or report, and requires career offenders to obtain identification displaying the statutory designation “775.261, F.S.”
HB 1293
New Florida Criminal Offense for Fraudulent Rental Applications
Beginning October 1, 2026, Florida creates a new third-degree felony involving obtaining possession of a residential rental dwelling through certain forms of intentional fraud.
The law covers conduct such as making materially false statements about identity, presenting forged or fictitious documents, or impersonating another person to obtain a lease or take possession of a dwelling.
SB 432
Florida Creates New Penalties for Nitrous Oxide and Xylazine
Beginning October 1, 2026, Florida creates new criminal penalties involving the unlawful sale or distribution of nitrous oxide by certain licensed tobacco or nicotine dealers.
The law also creates new felony offenses involving certain forms of xylazine, including a first-degree felony for trafficking 28 grams or more, with mandatory prison terms and fines based on the amount involved.
HB 559
Florida Law Expands Animal Cruelty Reporting Requirements
Beginning October 1, 2026, Florida expands requirements related to animal cruelty offenses and FDLE’s public database of qualifying convictions.
Clerks of Court and county detention facilities must provide FDLE with specified information, data, and images regarding individuals convicted of qualifying animal cruelty offenses.
The law also creates new offenses and increases certain penalties involving animal cruelty, including conduct involving minors.
HB 1525
Florida Creates New Offense Involving Indecent Exposure Around Children
Beginning October 1, 2026, Florida creates a new third-degree felony involving certain acts of indecent exposure while observing a child under 16.
The law establishes specific criteria and exceptions for the new offense and repeals the existing statute concerning unnatural and lascivious acts.
