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Many controversial bills were debated this past legislative season. New Florida laws go into effect Saturday on everything from guns, mobile apps and restrooms to the death penalty.
There are also restrictions on what can be read or taught in schools. One new law aims to keep medication costs under control. Another puts new rules in place on the rides at Florida's amusements parks, after a teen died in Orlando.
Here are some of the more notable laws taking effect July 1, 2023 here in Florida.
Amusement Park Rides
After the death of a teenager in Orlando at ICON Park, a law was passed that requires parks to alert riders about restrictions on things like weight, height, and age. Additional equipment regulations, training for staff and testing will be required as well.
Tik Tok
The social media platform will be prohibited on school district devices.
Permitless Carry
Guns can be carried almost anywhere. Exceptions include airports and courthouses. You need to be qualified, but don't need a permit. Keep in mind this only applies when you are within the state of Florida. If you travel, obviously you must abide by that state's laws. [Read more.]
Prescription Drugs
Big increases in cost for prescription drugs will need to be reported to the state. [Read the full bill here.]
Death Penalty
It will no longer require a unanimous jury vote to sentence someone to death. 8 out of the 12 members of the jury must vote for the execution.
Immigrant Workers
If you employ more than 25 workers, you have to verify they can work in the U.S. [Read the full bill here.]
Florida State Guard
The number of members will more than triple to 1500 to assist with weather emergencies, costing over $100 million. Opponents of the idea expressed concern over the governor having his own militia.
Menstrual Hygiene Products in Schools
School districts will be allowed to distribute free menstrual hygiene products. [More on this bill.]
9/11
Teachers will give 45 minutes of time in class on the events of 9/11.
Policemen and firemen run away from the huge dust cloud caused as the World Trade Center's Tower One collapses after terrorists crashed two hijacked planes into the twin towers, September 11, 2001 in New York City. (Photo by Jose Jimenez/Primera Hora/Getty Images)
Books
Schools must remove any books within 5 days if there are complaints about certain types of content. [Read the full bill here.]
Pronouns
Transgender students cannot be addressed by their preferred pronoun by school staff. Students are also limited as to which restrooms they can use.
School Board Member Term Limits
The length of time someone will be able to serve will be cut from 12 years to 8.
College Funding
No funding programs will be allowed for DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion).
Abortion
A ban on abortions after 15 weeks. This one is not going to take effect yet as it is still being challenged in court.
Property Ownership
The purchase of property in Florida will be prevented for those from China who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
