Florida DUI Law Changes – Key Legal Changes Every Florida Driver Should Know
Florida is implementing major changes to its DUI laws, and anyone who drives in the state should understand how the new regulations could impact them. Beginning October 1, 2025, “Trenton’s Law” (House Bill 687) introduces stricter penalties for DUI and BUI offenses, with a major focus on test refusals and repeat fatal DUI cases.
This law is named after Trenton Stewart, an 18-year-old who was tragically killed in 2023 by an impaired wrong-way driver. The goal of the legislation is simple: close loopholes and create stronger deterrents against impaired driving.
First-Time Test Refusal Becomes a Crime
Until now, refusing a breath or urine test during a DUI stop was primarily an administrative violation. Drivers faced license suspension, but not a criminal charge for the refusal itself.
That changes on October 1, 2025.
Under Trenton’s Law, a first test refusal becomes a 2nd-degree misdemeanor, punishable by:
Up to 60 days in jail
Fines
Mandatory license suspension (administrative penalties remain)
A second or subsequent refusal remains a 1st-degree misdemeanor, carrying up to one year in jail and higher fines.
Police officers must also clearly inform drivers that a refusal may result in criminal prosecution.
Tougher Penalties for Repeat Fatal DUI/BUI Offenses
Trenton’s Law also targets drivers with a history of fatal impaired-driving offenses.
If a person previously convicted of:
DUI Manslaughter
Vehicular Homicide
BUI Manslaughter
Vessel Homicide
commits another fatal DUI or BUI offense, the charge is elevated to a 1st-degree felony with a maximum penalty of up to 30 years in prison.
Judges also gain expanded authority to impose permanent driver’s license revocations in serious cases.
Applies Only to Offenses Committed After October 1, 2025
The law is not retroactive.
Only DUI/BUI offenses occurring on or after October 1, 2025 fall under these new rules. Earlier incidents are governed by prior law.
What Drivers Need to Know
Trenton’s Law sends a clear message: Florida is tightening its response to impaired driving.
Key takeaways:
A refusal is now a criminal offense, even for first-time DUI cases.
Repeat fatal DUI/BUI offenders face dramatically harsher sentencing.
Law enforcement officers must provide explicit warnings about criminal refusal penalties.
Anyone stopped for suspected DUI after October 1, 2025 faces a more complex legal landscape.
What to Do If You Are Charged With DUI After October 1, 2025
The consequences of a DUI charge under the new law are more serious than ever. If you are arrested for DUI or BUI after October 1, 2025:
-
Do not assume that refusing a test will protect you – it may result in a separate criminal charge.
-
Avoid making statements or posting about the incident online.
-
Contact an experienced Florida DUI attorney immediately.
-
The sooner a defense strategy is developed, the stronger your position will be.
Final Thoughts
Trenton’s Law represents one of the most significant changes to Florida’s DUI statutes in years. Understanding the new requirements and increased penalties is essential for every Florida driver. If you or someone you know is facing DUI allegations under the new law, seeking legal support early can make a critical difference.
Why Choose The Elliott Law Firm
Our Miami-based DUI defense team understands the major changes brought by Trenton’s Law — and how to defend clients under the new legal framework. We represent clients across South Florida facing:
First-time DUI charges
Criminal test refusals
Felony DUI
DUI manslaughter
BUI and enhanced offenses
We combine:
-
Deep knowledge of Florida’s DUI statutes, including the new provisions under House Bill 687,
-
Experience with local courts, judges, and prosecutors,
-
A strategic, results-focused defense approach aimed at reducing or dismissing charges.
Whether your arrest occurred in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, or the Keys — we fight to protect your record, your reputation, and your future.
Arrested for DUI in Florida? Call Now.
Facing DUI charges under the new law is time-sensitive and serious.
Don’t face the system alone — let an experienced DUI defense attorney stand between you and a conviction.
Contact The Elliott Law Firm today for a free, confidential consultation.
Sources:
- Florida Senate – House Bill 687 (Trenton’s Law)
- Florida House of Representatives – Bill Summary & Legislative Analysis
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
Florida DUI Law Changes – Key Legal Changes Every Florida Driver Should Know
Florida is implementing major changes to its DUI laws, and anyone who drives in the state should understand how the new regulations could impact them. Beginning October 1, 2025, “Trenton’s Law” (House Bill 687) introduces stricter penalties for DUI and BUI offenses, with a major focus on test refusals and repeat fatal DUI cases.
This law is named after Trenton Stewart, an 18-year-old who was tragically killed in 2023 by an impaired wrong-way driver. The goal of the legislation is simple: close loopholes and create stronger deterrents against impaired driving.
First-Time Test Refusal Becomes a Crime
Until now, refusing a breath or urine test during a DUI stop was primarily an administrative violation. Drivers faced license suspension, but not a criminal charge for the refusal itself.
That changes on October 1, 2025.
Under Trenton’s Law, a first test refusal becomes a 2nd-degree misdemeanor, punishable by:
Up to 60 days in jail
Fines
Mandatory license suspension (administrative penalties remain)
A second or subsequent refusal remains a 1st-degree misdemeanor, carrying up to one year in jail and higher fines.
Police officers must also clearly inform drivers that a refusal may result in criminal prosecution.
Tougher Penalties for Repeat Fatal DUI/BUI Offenses
Trenton’s Law also targets drivers with a history of fatal impaired-driving offenses.
If a person previously convicted of:
DUI Manslaughter
Vehicular Homicide
BUI Manslaughter
Vessel Homicide
commits another fatal DUI or BUI offense, the charge is elevated to a 1st-degree felony with a maximum penalty of up to 30 years in prison.
Judges also gain expanded authority to impose permanent driver’s license revocations in serious cases.
Applies Only to Offenses Committed After October 1, 2025
The law is not retroactive.
Only DUI/BUI offenses occurring on or after October 1, 2025 fall under these new rules. Earlier incidents are governed by prior law.
What Drivers Need to Know
Trenton’s Law sends a clear message: Florida is tightening its response to impaired driving.
Key takeaways:
A refusal is now a criminal offense, even for first-time DUI cases.
Repeat fatal DUI/BUI offenders face dramatically harsher sentencing.
Law enforcement officers must provide explicit warnings about criminal refusal penalties.
Anyone stopped for suspected DUI after October 1, 2025 faces a more complex legal landscape.
What to Do If You Are Charged With DUI After October 1, 2025
The consequences of a DUI charge under the new law are more serious than ever. If you are arrested for DUI or BUI after October 1, 2025:
-
Do not assume that refusing a test will protect you—it may result in a separate criminal charge.
-
Avoid making statements or posting about the incident online.
-
Contact an experienced Florida DUI attorney immediately.
-
The sooner a defense strategy is developed, the stronger your position will be.
Final Thoughts
Trenton’s Law represents one of the most significant changes to Florida’s DUI statutes in years. Understanding the new requirements and increased penalties is essential for every Florida driver. If you or someone you know is facing DUI allegations under the new law, seeking legal support early can make a critical difference.
Why Choose The Elliott Law Firm
Our Miami-based DUI defense team understands the major changes brought by Trenton’s Law — and how to defend clients under the new legal framework. We represent clients across South Florida facing:
First-time DUI charges
Criminal test refusals
Felony DUI
DUI manslaughter
BUI and enhanced offenses
We combine:
-
Deep knowledge of Florida’s DUI statutes, including the new provisions under House Bill 687,
-
Experience with local courts, judges, and prosecutors,
-
A strategic, results-focused defense approach aimed at reducing or dismissing charges.
Whether your arrest occurred in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, or the Keys — we fight to protect your record, your reputation, and your future.
Arrested for DUI in Florida? Call Now.
Facing DUI charges under the new law is time-sensitive and serious.
Don’t face the system alone — let an experienced DUI defense attorney stand between you and a conviction.
Contact The Elliott Law Firm today for a free, confidential consultation.
Sources: