New Florida Law Expands Protections for Utility Workers Performing Essential Infrastructure Work
This article was co-authored by Carlton Fields summer associate Christopher Hewlett.
On May 22, 2025, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 1386 into law, reclassifying criminal penalties for assault and battery against utility workers while they are engaged in critical infrastructure work. The law takes effect on October 1, 2025.
The legislation passed the Florida House and Senate unanimously, reflecting a growing concern for the safety of utility workers performing the vital work that keeps Florida’ s infrastructure running smoothly. It elevates the criminal penalties for assault or battery against utility workers to mirror protections already in place for police officers, firefighters, emergency medical services providers, and other vital personnel.
The legislation stems from two instances of utility workers being harmed. One incident was in Hillsborough County in October 2024, when a man, angry at the road being blocked for repairs, backed his car into a utility pole and then threatened to shoot the utility workers on scene. Another incident occurred in Polk County in February 2025, when a woman released her dogs on two utility workers who were investigating possible utility theft.
12 DITCHMEN • JUNE 2025