FL H0603

Changes language in section 985.12, Florida Statutes, to make civil citations discretionary rather than mandatory for law enforcement officers encountering juveniles who admit to committing misdemeanors.

Allows law enforcement officers to issue civil citations and assess up to 50 community service hours, along with requiring participation in intervention services such as family counseling, urinalysis monitoring, and substance abuse or mental health treatment.

Restricts civil citation eligibility to first-time misdemeanor offenders only.

Requires law enforcement agencies to operate civil citation programs in consultation and agreement with the state attorney and local law enforcement agencies.

Takes effect July 1, 2013.