FL H0387

Creates "Carl's Law" establishing a separate hate crime statute (s. 775.0863, F.S.) specifically for offenses committed against victims with mental or physical disabilities, with penalties reclassified one degree higher (e.g., second-degree misdemeanor becomes first-degree misdemeanor, first-degree felony becomes life felony)

Defines "mental or physical disability" as a condition of incapacitation due to developmental disability, organic brain damage, or mental illness that restricts the victim's ability to perform normal daily activities

Requires the prosecution to prove the defendant perceived, knew, or had reasonable grounds to know the victim had a mental or physical disability as an essential element of the enhanced offense

Provides victims a civil cause of action with recovery of treble damages, injunctive relief, attorney fees, and costs upon establishing coercion, intimidation, or threats by clear and convincing evidence

Effective date: October 1, 2016