FL S1784

Creates new offense of lewd adult battery prohibiting a person from knowingly and intentionally touching the breasts, genitals, genital area, or buttocks (or clothing covering them) of a person 18 years or older without consent.

Defines "consent" as intelligent, knowing, and voluntary consent that does not include submission by coercion.

Defines "coercion" as the use of exploitation, bribes, threats of force, or intimidation to gain cooperation or compliance.

Establishes lewd adult battery as a third-degree felony, punishable under Florida's criminal punishment code provisions.

Takes effect July 1, 2021, and amends the criminal offense severity ranking chart to classify the new offense appropriately.