FL S1608

Creates section 817.418, Florida Statutes, making it unlawful to knowingly disseminate false or misleading information about personal protective equipment (masks, gloves, gowns, respirators, etc.) in marketing, advertising, or communications with intent to defraud; punishable as a third-degree felony, or second-degree felony for repeat offenses.

Creates section 817.504, Florida Statutes, prohibiting knowing dissemination of false or misleading information regarding availability or access to COVID-19 vaccines or pandemic disease vaccines with intent to obtain personal identification information or money; punishable as a third-degree felony, or second-degree felony for repeat offenses.

Authorizes state attorneys, the statewide prosecutor, and the Attorney General to prosecute violations and pursue civil remedies including injunctions and restraining orders.

Amends the Criminal Punishment Code to rank the new offenses on the offense severity chart as Level 7 (third-degree felonies) and Level 8 (second-degree felonies for repeat violations).