Offenses Evidencing Prejudice

SB 402 amends Florida law to reclassify certain crimes as more severe when they show prejudice based on the victim's political ideology, alongside existing factors like race, religion, or sexual orientation. It upgrades penalties: for example, a second-degree misdemeanor becomes a first-degree misdemeanor, a first-degree misdemeanor becomes a third-degree felony, and higher-level felonies face even harsher classifications (up to life felony for first-degree felonies). The bill directly affects individuals convicted of offenses where the victim was targeted due to their political views, increasing their potential penalties. It takes effect on October 1, 2026, and is currently under review by Florida's Criminal Justice and Appropriations committees.