The legislation was adopted due to language in a 1996 Florida Supreme Court case to avoid a possible future challenge. This amendment clarifies the legislative intent that the statute is a substantive reclassification of subject offenses rather than a penalty enhancement. The notice must be posted for not less than 2 consecutive weeks in a public place designated by the agency and must describe the property in a manner reasonably adequate to permit the rightful owner of the property to claim it. If the agency elects to sell the property at public sale, the publication of the notice in a newspaper is still required. Establishes a procedure for the identification and certification of certain victims or witnesses who may be at risk of harm.
Protective services can also include temporary relocation of the affected victim or witness.
Also establishes a Victim and Witness Protection Review Committee within the Florida Violent Crime Council and provides for membership and duties of that Committee. It appears that the fiscal burden will fall on the lead law enforcement agency involved in the investigation which may then seek full or partial reimbursement. Law enforcement agencies should consider a source of funding to cover initial costs.