Proposed Florida Bill Would Require Schools to Create More Comprehensive Sexual Violence Prevention Policies

Recently, House Bill 1025 (HB 1025) was introduced into the Florida legislature in Tallahassee. It is a reform bill that would, if passed, require schools in our state to develop (and enact) more comprehensive sexual violence prevention policies. Here, our Miami sexual assault and battery lawyer for victims provides a more detailed overview of the proposed law.

An Overview of What HB 1025 Would Require

House Bill 1025 is a proposed reform to Florida’s state legal code aimed at educational institutions. As currently drafted HB 1025 would require, all public and private educational institutions from kindergarten through postsecondary (K-20) to develop, maintain, and communicate specific policies involving sexual assault, sexual abuse, dating violence, stalking, and related forms of misconduct.

The law states that these policies must be written in clear, accessible language and made available in commonly used languages for families and school personnel with limited English. Under the bill, schools would also need to establish clear procedures for reporting incidents, outline the rights of victim and accused, explain the investigation process, and explain the disciplinary process.

Finally, the proposed language in HB 1025 also directs schools to provide information on supportive measures such as designated contacts, hotlines, counseling and mental health services, academic accommodations, schedule adjustments, and campus safety escorts. Notifications of these policies and measures would need to be included in student handbooks, posted in visible locations, and made accessible on school websites. Notably, for minors, parents would also need to be informed.

Why the Bill Matters: A Push to Improve Anti-Sexual Violence Policies in Schools

Florida law currently mandates certain educational content, including the prevention of child sexual abuse and exploitation in health education programs. However, there are gaps. State law does not require comprehensive sexual violence policies enforced at the institutional level. Indeed, existing sex education requirements focus largely on health topics, abstinence. There are only limited regulations for sexual abuse/sexual violence. It is mostly a district-by-district issue.

HB 1025 is Proposed Legislation (There are Still Many Steps Before it Could Become Law)

As of early 2026, HB 1025 is in the introduction phase and has been filed by Representative Juan Porras. It would take effect July 1, 2026, if passed. A companion Senate version has not yet been filed. Stakeholders, including educators, parents, civil rights advocates, and legal professionals, are likely to engage in discussions as the bill moves through committee hearings and floor votes. It remains unclear as to whether or not the bill will gain sufficient support in Tallahassee to be passed into law. 

Contact Our Miami Sexual Assault Lawyer Today

At Pike & Lustig, LLP, our Miami sexual assault attorney is knowledgeable, experienced, and results-driven. If you have any questions about a civil legal claim for sexual violence in a school, we are here to help. Call us now or contact us online for a free, confidential initial consultation. Our firm represents victims and families throughout South Florida.

Source:

flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/1025/?Tab=BillText