FL S1558

Expands Florida's hate crime statute (section 775.085) to include crimes evidencing prejudice based on employment as a member of the press alongside existing protected classes (race, color, ancestry, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, homeless status, and advanced age)

Defines "member of the press" as an accredited member of the press corps or media, a photographer or photojournalist employed by a newspaper, magazine, or media company, or an individual operating equipment to facilitate news or media delivery

Applies the existing penalty reclassification scheme to crimes targeting press members, reclassifying offenses one felony or misdemeanor level higher (e.g., second-degree misdemeanor becomes first-degree misdemeanor)

Takes effect October 1, 2021