Trending Topics

Fla. law creating 25-foot ‘barrier’ around first responders to go into effect in 2025

The “Halo Law” adds misdemeanor penalties for people who refuse to back 25 feet away from public safety personnel responding to incidents

Crime scene tape

AP Photo/Matt Rourke, File

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.

Trending
The 20-year-old gunman, shot by police, had been active in the Leon County Sheriff’s Office youth programs and carried a handgun and shotgun
Adams County Sheriff Dale Wagner told Congress that sanctuary policies block deputies from honoring ICE detainers for individuals who pose a threat to community safety
JCPenney called — they want their catalog back
Officer Simmonds died nearly a year after he was injured in the Watertown gunfight, but the 2016 film “Patriots Day” left him out — sparking calls for a more accurate portrayal

Joanna Putman is an Associate Editor and newswriter at Police1, where she has been covering law enforcement topics since August 2023. Based in Orlando, Florida, she holds a journalism degree from the University of Florida and spent two years working in nonprofit local newsrooms, gaining experience in community-focused reporting. Married to a law enforcement officer, she works hard to highlight the challenges and triumphs of those who serve and protect. Have a news tip? Email her at news@lexipol.com