The HAVEN Act became law as of July 1, 2026

Compiled by Judi Marraccini from many sources

The Florida Senate passed SB 296, called “Helping Abuse Victims Escape Now (HAVEN) Act.” The legislation is designed to protect victims of domestic violence in dating relationships during what experts said is the most dangerous time — when they’re trying to escape their abusers.

The bill was sponsored by Florida State Senate Minority Leader Lori Berman. She said this targets a critical gap in current protections for domestic violence victims by creating a discreet hotline for them to reach out for help.

 

The HAVEN Act includes several groundbreaking measures to help victims:

• Discreet Alert System: Mandates a feasibility study for a web-based alert system, allowing victims to silently alert law enforcement using a personalized phone number, code word, or pin number.
• Address Confidentiality: Allows victims of dating violence (in addition to domestic violence) to participate in the Florida Attorney General’s Address Confidentiality Program.
• HAVEN Coordinating Council: Establishes a coordinating council within the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) to improve emergency response infrastructure and ensure online safety protocols.

Additional companion legislation (such as HB 277) was also passed to increase relocation allowances for victims, enhance penalties for repeat domestic violence offenders, and include threats against pets in protective injunctions .

If you wish more information, contact The Shelter for Abused Women & Children in Collier County.