Panel advances Jason Raynor Act to clarify resisting‑arrest liability and sentencing enhancements

The House Judiciary Committee voted to report CS for HB17 favorably, a bill the sponsor described as the Jason Raynor Act. Rep. Baker said the measure clarifies Florida law so juries understand that a person is not justified in using or threatening force to resist an arrest even if the arrest is later held unlawful. The sponsor said the committee version retains 'good faith' language, defines good faith, adds manslaughter to the list of offenses requiring a life sentence, and raises the severity level for battery on a law enforcement officer.

Rep. Joseph pressed the sponsor on whether the bill would criminalize resistance when an officer later is found to have used illegal or excessive force. The sponsor and the supporter explained that a person retains the right to defend against excessive force, but that resisting an otherwise lawful arrest must be addressed in court rather than on the street; they distinguished lack of probable cause (an arrest later ruled illegal) from use of excessive force.

Several law enforcement organizations waived in support. Committee debate included members who said the bill reinforces respect for authority and the rule of law; Rep. Joseph said he would oppose the bill unless the narrow exception for officers acting outside the course and scope of their duties is clarified. The clerk announced the committee reported CS for HB17 favorably with the tally reported as 20 yeas, 1 nay (Rep. Joseph voted no).