Florida Governor DeSantis has approved three significant bills that enhance animal protection statutes and modify gun laws related to emergency situations, with hurricane season on the horizon.
FLORIDA, USA — Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida endorsed three pivotal pieces of legislation on Wednesday, which bring considerable reforms to how animals are protected and adjust firearm rules as the state prepares for upcoming hurricanes.
Trooper’s law targets pet abandonment during disasters
The introduction of Senate Bill 150, also called Trooper’s Law, now classifies leaving a dog restrained and alone outside during a declared natural disaster or under an evacuation order as a third-degree felony.
The law was inspired by the rescue of Trooper, a bull terrier found chained in rising floodwaters along Interstate 75 during Hurricane Milton last year.
Under the new statute, offenders face up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
The law also classifies failing to provide confined animals with adequate food, water, or exercise as a first-degree misdemeanor, with similar financial penalties.
Dexter’s law increases penalties for animal cruelty
House Bill 255, Dexter’s Law, is named after a shelter dog killed days after being adopted.
The law enhances penalties for aggravated animal cruelty, introducing a 1.25 sentencing multiplier for the most severe offenses.
It also establishes Florida’s first public animal abuser database, requiring law enforcement to post the names of convicted offenders online.
The database, managed by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, gives shelters and the public a tool to identify and avoid known abusers.
HB 6025 changes firearm rules during emergencies
The third measure, House Bill 6025, repeals Florida’s automatic restrictions on the possession and carrying of firearms and ammunition during declared emergencies.
Previously, a state of emergency triggered a ban on carrying or purchasing firearms and ammunition, regardless of whether the person was otherwise law-abiding.
With this change, lawful gun owners retain their rights during emergencies, as long as they comply with existing state laws.
Supporters argue this ensures Floridians are not left defenseless during crises, while critics have raised concerns about potential public safety risks.
Immediate impact and next steps
Dexter’s Law takes effect July 1, Trooper’s Law on October 1, and the firearm regulation changes are effective immediately.
Gov. DeSantis still has not taken action on a bill to repeal the so-called “Free Kill” law.
He has until Friday to take action, sign or veto it. If he takes no action, it will become law without his signature.
A press conference is scheduled for noon Thursday regarding the repeal of the “free kill” law, with further updates expected from Tampa.
