FL H0451

Creates section 784.049 in Florida Statutes to establish criminal offenses for bullying and aggravated bullying.

Defines "bullying" as willfully, maliciously, and repeatedly harassing or cyberbullying another person, making it a first-degree misdemeanor punishable under sections 775.082 or 775.083.

Defines "aggravated bullying" as willfully, maliciously, and repeatedly harassing or cyberbullying another person while making a credible threat to them, making it a third-degree felony punishable under sections 775.082, 775.083, or 775.084.

Defines key terms including "cyberbullying" as electronic communication directed at a specific person causing substantial emotional distress without legitimate purpose, and "credible threat" as verbal or nonverbal threats placing the target in reasonable fear for their safety or family's safety.

Effective date is October 1, 2014.