Jason Fischer’s ‘Civil Remedies for Terrorism’ bill becomes law

Stronger civil penalties for terrorism in the Sunshine State are imminent, as Gov. Rick Scott signed Rep. Jason Fischer‘s “Civil Remedies for Terrorism” bill into law Friday.

HB 65 was Fischer’s first bill, filed last November.

Previously, there had not been a civil cause of action for terrorism under Florida law. This bill changes that, allowing a person injured as a victim of terrorism to collect minimum damages of $1,000, along with legal fees, from the assailant or assailants.

Those committing acts of terror, meanwhile, are permitted no recourse under this law.

The bill also precludes spurious claims: “The defendant is entitled to recover reasonable attorney fees and court costs in the trial and appellate courts upon a finding that the claimant raised a claim that was without support in fact or law.”

 “I want to commend Governor Scott for signing Civil Remedies for Terrorism into law. The Governor’s signature further reinforces that our state will not tolerate anyone who harms or intends to harm our citizens with senseless acts of terror. While nothing can erase the horror experienced by victims and their families, my hope is that this law will provide relief in the form of civil damages,” Fischer said in a statement Tuesday.

Fischer’s bill is a tribute to Private Andy Long, who Fischer asserts “was murdered by an Islamic terrorist outside of an Army-Navy recruiting station in Arkansas.”