TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WFLA) — Nearly 30 new laws came into effect on October 1, encompassing a range of issues from mental health to pet safety during hurricanes. Among these, one law is particularly noteworthy for drivers.
House Bill 113, endorsed by Governor Ron DeSantis, raises the penalties for those trying to escape from law enforcement during a traffic stop.
Bill sponsor of the new law, State Rep. Ryan Chamberlin (R-Belleview), said previous penalties didn’t go far enough.
“Many of you may recall that last year we observed a moment of silence for state Trooper Zachary Fink,” Chamberlin mentioned on the House floor.
Trooper Fink tragically lost his life in a collision during a high-speed pursuit in St. Lucie County in 2024, prompting legislators to seek effective measures for such situations.
Although statehouse Democrats acknowledge the problem of high-speed chases, they have some reservations about the bill’s wording. Concerns arise over individuals who worry about their safety: could they be penalized for cautiously finding a safe spot to pull over?
“But if someone feels unsafe pulling over in a certain area and chooses to drive to a well-lit place with more people, does this bill still open them to the risk of a felony?” asked State Rep. Angela Nixon, (D-Jacksonville).
Bill sponsor Rep. Chamberlin stressed that the law is only after “high speeders.”
Democrats still proposed a possible solution lawmakers could consider down the road.
“If they put their blinker lights on, that should give clear determination to law enforcement following them that they are attempting to find a safe and reasonable place to pull over and stop,” said State Rep. Kevin Chambliss (D-Homestead).
However, that idea didn’t make the final cut.
For those who choose to recklessly drive or flee at high speeds, you could be facing anywhere from a third to first degree felony, punishable by fines and or even prison time depending on the case.
