Gay and Transgender Panic Legal Defenses (HB 317)
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Florida
2026
This bill bans gay and trans panic defenses in criminal cases. A nonviolent sexual advance, or beliefs about someone's sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity, cannot be used to excuse justify, or reduce a sentence. Courts must judge actions, not bias. The change protects LGBTQ people, supports equal justice, and helps prevent bias-based violence. Takes effect July 1, 2026.
Vote Yes on this bill if you want to ban panic defenses so a nonviolent advance or beliefs about someone’s sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity cannot excuse, justify, or lessen a criminal charge or sentence.
Organizations that support this bill may include LGBTQ advocacy and civil rights organizations, anti-violence and victim-support groups, and some prosecutors and legal ethics groups seeking to prevent bias from reducing accountability.
Supported By
Vote No on this bill if you want defendants to retain the option to raise these arguments in court, allowing judges and juries to weigh such claims when assessing guilt or sentencing.
Organizations that oppose this bill may include some criminal defense associations concerned about limits on defense strategies, and some socially conservative or religious groups skeptical of LGBTQ-focused legislation.
