Florida2026Active
HB1525
New Law Against Lewd Acts While Observing Children
Last scannedAug 24, 2026, 10:35 AM
In one sentence
This law creates a new crime for people who expose their sexual organs or perform specific sexual acts while observing children under age 16, and it removes an older similar law.
What it does
- Removes the old state statute about unnatural and lascivious acts with children (s. 800.02).
- Creates a new felony crime called indecent exposure of sexual organs while observing a child.
- Defines 'observing' as intentionally viewing another person when the offender can reasonably be seen by them.
- Sets penalties for breaking this law under third-degree felony rules.
- Says it is not a defense if the child did not see the person or know what was happening.
Who it affects
- People who intentionally expose sexual organs while observing children under age 16 for their own sexual arousal or gratification.
- People who perform specific sexual acts without touching a child while observing them for their own sexual arousal or gratification.
- Mothers breastfeeding their babies, who are exempt from this law.
- Individuals in places set aside specifically for being nude.
Limits and unknowns
- The text lists examples like sadomasochistic abuse, sexual bestiality, masturbation, or simulating sex acts, but does not list every possible act.
- The bill updates laws about child interviews and search warrants to reference the new crime, but these changes are separate from the main definition of the offense.
Plain language
Terms to know
- Lewd or lascivious
- Showing sexual behavior that is improper or offensive, as used to describe the exposure of organs.
- Observing
- Intentionally viewing another person when the offender can reasonably be seen by them.
- Felony of the third degree
- A serious crime that carries specific prison time and fines under Florida law.
Official record
Sources
Official summary
Lewd or Lascivious Acts
Official activity
Bill history
- Chapter No. 2026-159