CS/HB 1029 Summary

• Prohibits introduction into or possession of cellular telephones and other portable communication devices on county detention facility grounds, with exceptions for devices approved by the sheriff for official purposes.

• Establishes criminal penalties of a third-degree felony for violating the cellular telephone prohibition, punishable under sections 775.082, 775.083, or 775.084.

• Classifies violations of contraband prohibitions involving intoxicating drugs, cellular telephones, or escape-aiding instrumentalities as third-degree felonies (section 951.22(1)(h), (j), and (k)).

• Updates the Criminal Punishment Code offense severity ranking chart to include cellular telephone violations in Level 4 offenses at third-degree felony level.

• Takes effect October 1, 2019.