FL H0191

Amends Florida Statute 812.14 to change criminal penalties for unlawful utility service violations from misdemeanor of the first degree to theft charges under ss. 775.082 or 775.083.

Clarifies that prosecution for violating subsection (5) does not preclude separate prosecution for theft under subsection (8) or s. 812.014.

Specifies that theft of utility services used to facilitate controlled substance manufacturing constitutes theft punishable under ss. 775.082 or 775.083.

Increases civil liability for utility service theft from $1,000 to $3,000 minimum or 3 times the amount of services unlawfully obtained, whichever is greater.

Takes effect October 1, 2013.