Anti-groomer bill filed in Florida, cracking down on sexual communication with children
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – A new one-page bill filed by Florida lawmakers Wednesday creates a new felony offense for “lewd or lascivious grooming.”
Reps. Taylor Yarkosky, R-Montverde, and Douglas Bankson, R-Apopka, filed HB 1135.
The new offense would apply when someone either prepares or encourages a child to engage in sexual activity “through overtly sexually themed communication” with that child.
Sen. Jonathan Martin, R-Fort Myers, filed the House companion bill Wednesday as well.
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Additionally, it would apply if a child is made to view sexual communication without permission from the parent or guardian.
The bill says the penalty is when such actions are taken on people under 16.
Violators would face a second degree felony.
If passed, the bill would take effect Oct. 1, 2024.
