Trenton’s Law (HB 687): Florida Cracks Down on DUI Test Refusals and Manslaughter Offenders

Effective October 1, 2025, Trenton’s Law is a sweeping update to Florida's DUI and BUI statutes that imposes much tougher penalties for impaired driving and related fatalities. Officially known as House Bill 687, the law is named after a young victim killed in a crash caused by a repeat DUI offender.

TRENTON'S LAW represents one of the most significant overhauls of Florida’s impaired-driving laws in recent years—making even a first refusal to take a chemical test a criminal act, and enhancing penalties for repeat DUI-related deaths.

What Is Trenton’s Law?

Trenton’s Law is Florida’s legislative response to a fatal DUI crash that drew attention to gaps in existing laws. Lawmakers sought to ensure that individuals who repeatedly drive under the influence—or refuse chemical testing—face stronger accountability.

In short, the law:

• Makes the first refusal to submit to a lawful breath or urine test a criminal offense;

• Elevates repeat DUI-related fatalities (including boating and vehicular homicides) to first-degree felonies; and

• Expands its reach to cover boating under the influence (BUI) and related crimes

First-Time Test Refusals Are Now Crimes

Under prior law, a first time DUI offender who refused to provide a chemical test was subject to administrative punishments causing license suspensions, but would not face a criminal charge.

That changes under Trenton’s Law.

• A first-time refusal is now a second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 60 days in jail, fines, and a permanent criminal record.

• A second or subsequent refusal becomes a first-degree misdemeanor, carrying up to one year in jail and higher fines.

• The officer requesting the chemical test of a first-time offender must inform the offender of the criminal consequences of refusing to provide the sample.

This means that even drivers with no prior record risk arrest, prosecution, and a criminal conviction simply for declining to take a breath or urine test during after being arrested for a DUI. This is a massive change in the law as it puts enhanced pressures on individuals to provide chemical samples.

Harsher Penalties for Repeat DUI Manslaughter and Homicide

Trenton’s Law also delivers a major increase in punishment for repeat DUI-related fatalities.

Previously, a conviction for DUI manslaughter, vehicular homicide, or vessel homicide was classified as a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison—even for repeat offenders.

Now, a second or subsequent conviction for these offenses is a first-degree felony, punishable by up to 30 years in prison.

In addition, these crimes are ranked more severely under Florida’s Criminal Punishment Code, increasing the sentencing scores and likelihood of longer prison terms.

The result: repeat DUI offenders involved in fatal crashes will face much stiffer penalties and far less leniency in sentencing.

Effects on Boating Under the Influence (BUI) and Vessel Homicide

Trenton’s Law doesn’t stop with drivers—it extends to boating under the influence (BUI) and vessel homicide as well.

• A prior DUI or BUI conviction can now elevate a boating manslaughter case to a first-degree felony, carrying up to 30 years in prison.

• Refusing a chemical test during a BUI stop could also trigger criminal penalties, depending on how courts apply the new provisions.

• Standard BUI penalties—like vessel impoundment, fines, and community service—remain in place, but repeat or fatal incidents now carry dramatically higher stakes.

Florida’s message is clear: impaired boating will be treated just as seriously as impaired driving.

What Trenton’s Law Means for Florida Drivers and Boaters

Trenton’s Law reflects Florida’s ongoing effort to deter impaired driving and ensure repeat offenders face stronger consequences. For anyone arrested for DUI, BUI, or accused of refusing a chemical test, these changes make the situation far more serious.

Even a first-time refusal can now result in additional criminal charges, and any repeat DUI-related death carries a potential 30-year prison sentence.

If you’ve been charged under Florida’s new DUI laws or if you are unsure how Trenton’s Law affects your case, you should speak with an experienced Florida DUI defense attorney immediately. Skilled legal counsel can help you understand your rights, challenge the state’s evidence, and protect your future.

Need Legal Help After a DUI or BUI Arrest?

Our firm represents clients throughout Florida in DUI, BUI, and vehicular homicide cases. We understand how these new laws impact your options and what defenses may apply.

Contact us today to schedule a free confidential consultation and learn how we can fight to protect your rights.

 

Contact Vitola & Card today for your free consultation.

David M. Vitola, Esq.

Vitola & Card, P.A.

Offices Brooksville, Winter Garden