A bill criminalizing the harassment of first responders on duty in Florida is currently awaiting Gov. Ron DeSantis' signature after being approved by the state legislature. Senate Bill 184, which passed both chambers last month, aims to protect police officers, correctional probation officers, firefighters, and emergency medical care providers from harassment while they are engaged in the lawful performance of their duties.
According to the bill, harassment is defined as willfully engaging in conduct that intentionally causes substantial emotional distress to a first responder and serves no legitimate purpose. The legislation also prohibits individuals from being within 25 feet of a working first responder after receiving a verbal warning to stay away if they are impeding job duties or posing a threat of physical harm.
Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood expressed his support for the bill, citing an increase in aggressive and dangerous behavior towards law enforcement officers. He emphasized the importance of maintaining professionalism while dealing with disruptive individuals but noted that deputies would not be disciplined for calling out inappropriate behavior.
If signed into law, harassing a first responder would be considered a second-degree misdemeanor in Florida, with violators facing a fine of up to $500 or two months in jail. The law is set to take effect on January 1 of the following year.
