East Volusia News

St. AUGUSTINE, Fla. - Governor Ron DeSantis has signed new legislation aimed at protecting law enforcement officers in Florida. The legislation includes measures to increase penalties for those who harass officers in the line of duty and prohibits the use of political entities to drive an anti-police agenda.

"I am proud to support the men and women of law enforcement throughout the state," said Governor Ron DeSantis. "Today’s legislation will ensure law enforcement can do their jobs without the threat of harassment. While blue states vilify and defund the police, Florida will continue to be the friendliest state in the nation towards our law enforcement community."

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement Commissioner Mark Glass also expressed support for the new legislation, stating, "In Florida under Governor DeSantis, first responders and police officers are supported and respected. Today’s legislation protects the rights of law enforcement officers and ensures they can remain safe on the job."

Representative Alex Rizo emphasized the importance of the new laws, stating, "With the signing of the ‘Halo’ bill, the Governor and Legislature are letting every law enforcement officer and first responder in the state know that we not only stand with them, but will continue to do whatever we must to protect and serve them, as they protect and serve us."

The new legislation includes SB 184, which prohibits the harassment of police officers or first responders actively performing their duties. Those who harass officers will face second-degree misdemeanor charges. Additionally, HB 601 prevents anti-police activists from carrying out extrajudicial investigations against law enforcement and ensures that misconduct allegations are properly investigated by trained personnel.

Representative Wyman Duggan highlighted Florida's commitment to law enforcement, stating, "Florida has worked hard since 2018 to be the most law enforcement-friendly state in the nation. We are no longer going to allow a civilian oversight/review process to be a vehicle for the persecution of individual officers."

Governor DeSantis has been proactive in supporting law enforcement during his time in office, signing legislation to protect police K9s as well. The new laws ensure that caregivers of retired police dogs receive stipends for veterinary bills, provide emergency service vehicles for injured K9s, and increase penalties for those who harass or harm police K9s.

The recent legislation signed by Governor DeSantis reinforces Florida's commitment to supporting and protecting its law enforcement officers, ensuring they can carry out their duties safely and effectively.