No. HB 317
Filed under Criminal Justice.
Gay and Transgender Panic Legal Defenses; Prohibits use of nonviolent sexual advance or specified perceptions or beliefs about another person as defense to criminal offense, to excuse or justify person's conduct, or to mitigate severity of offense.
Plain English Summary
AI-GENERATEDThe bill prohibits using a victim's sexual orientation or gender identity as a legal defense in criminal cases. This applies to both the initial charge and the sentencing phase.
It also bars using a nonviolent sexual advance as an excuse for committing a crime. This prevents defendants from claiming a victim's actions provoked the offense.
The law defines gender identity and sexual orientation broadly to cover actual or perceived characteristics. This ensures the prohibition applies even if the defendant's beliefs are inaccurate.
The new statute takes effect on July 1, 2026. It creates a specific legal barrier against these types of arguments in Florida courts.
AIBans using a victim's sex, orientation, or gender identity as a legal defense or sentencing mitigation in criminal cases.
AILegally defines sexual orientation and gender identity/expression to establish the scope of the prohibited defense.
AIDeclares that panic defenses illegitimately mitigate perpetrator responsibility for harm done to LGBTQ persons.