Committee codifies ICAC funding in FDLE; CS for SB 656 reported favorably

The Senate Appropriations Committee on Criminal and Civil Justice voted to report CS for SB 656 favorably after Senator Bradley described the measure as a statutory codification of funding for Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task forces.

Senator Bradley told the committee the bill would give FDLE statutory authority over a funding stream that supports frontline investigations, training, technology and personnel for local ICAC units. He said the measure would also rename and expand an existing online‑sting grant to align the grant program with the ICAC mission and ensure affiliates can use funds for both proactive and reactive work.

Several senators voiced support for sustained funding and tools for prosecutors and investigators. The clerk called the roll and the committee voted to report the CS for SB 656 favorably; all senators present recorded a “yes” vote.

The bill was reported out without amendment in committee; the committee did not take additional action on program details during the meeting.