Changes to Sexual Offender Reporting Requirements

Changes to Sexual Offender Reporting Requirements

Florida’s HB 1235 became law in 2024 after a signature from the governor and made several changes to sexual offender reporting requirements in the state. Individuals required to register as sex offenders in Florida will want to stay up to date with these new obligations to avoid further criminal charges and any related penalties upon a conviction. Our team of criminal defense lawyers is here to help people who need assistance with the requirements of HB 1235 or who need representation in court. Learn more about these changes below and schedule a consultation with our office.

Changes to Sexual Offender Reporting Requirements in Florida Under HB 1235

Sex offenders in Florida must report information to the state about their whereabouts and activities. This reporting process is done either through the Department of Law Enforcement’s online system or by submitting information in person to the local sheriff’s office. Florida HB 1235 clarified the definitions and deadlines for reporting the following information:

  • Residence addresses
  • Vehicle information
  • Phone number
  • Email address and other internet identifiers
  • Employment status and any changes in status at a higher education institution

Sex offenders must also report any changes or updates to this information. For example, the reporting period for a permanent, temporary, or transient residence begins the day after a person first stays there under the changes in HB 1235. Additionally, sex offenders who live on a vessel or house-boat must provide its registration number. Traveling outside of Florida also requires disclosure to the Department of Law Enforcement, including information about where they are going or if their travel plans change. Any updates or changes to the sexual offender required reporting information must occur within 48 hours.

Penalties for Violations of Sexual Offender Registration and Reporting Laws

Each instance of a sex offender’s failure to register, report necessary changes, and otherwise fail to comply with Section 775.21 is a separate offense and punishable as a third-degree felony. Additionally, Florida imposes mandatory minimum terms of community control for violations that do not result in a prison sentence, and are as follows:

  • Six months with electronic monitoring for a first offense
  • One year with electronic monitoring for a second offense
  • Two years with electronic monitoring for a third or subsequent offense

The potential maximum imprisonment term for a third-degree felony in Florida is five years.  However, multiple violations of the registration and reporting requirements can quickly increase the possible sentence upon conviction.

Consult With a Criminal Defense Lawyer at Goldman Wetzel

At Goldman Wetzel, our dedicated team of attorneys is committed to defending our clients with unwavering determination—even if it means taking a case to trial. We are the trusted firm for handling sensitive sex crime cases that other criminal defense lawyers may hesitate to take on. We firmly believe that every individual deserves fairness and equal treatment within Florida’s justice system. Leveraging years of litigation experience and a proactive, results-driven approach, we strive to provide our clients with a strong, optimistic defense. Contact us today to schedule a free case review for charges related to violations of updated sexual offender reporting requirements.