TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — A new Florida law set to take effect on Jan. 1 aims to enhance safety for first responders and the public by creating enforceable boundaries at emergency scenes, News4Jax reported.
Known as Senate Bill 184, or the “Halo Law,” the legislation establishes a mandatory 25-foot barrier around first responders, requiring bystanders to maintain a safe distance, according to the report.
“We don’t know what’s going to happen. Some of those scenes are unpredictable,” said Chris Naff, public information officer for St. Johns County Fire Rescue.
While first responders have always had to manage crowds and maintain control of chaotic situations, there was previously no law explicitly enforcing a safe distance for bystanders, according to the report.
“It creates that barrier of safety,” Naff added.
Under the Halo Law, anyone who enters the 25-foot barrier will first receive a warning, according to the report. If they refuse to leave, they could face criminal consequences, including a second-degree misdemeanor charge.
Penalties for violations could include up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. Additionally, the law prohibits “threatening” or “harassing” first responders.
“It doesn’t go against your First Amendment rights to video …” Naff said. “It’s more of a safety thing.”
The Halo Law applies to all first responders, including law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical care providers and correctional probation officers, according to the report. The bill passed the Florida Senate in March with overwhelming support by a vote of 39-1.
