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Did DeSantis outlaw joyrides in Florida? Here’s the truth

Governor responds after fake release goes viral

A viral release made the rounds online, falsely claiming that Florida Gov. DeSantis signed a new law that prohibited "aimless driving." (Anthony Talcott, WKMG-TV 2026)

ORLANDO, Fla. – While dozens of new Florida bills have already been approved by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, one in particular is drawing some attention online.

The problem? It’s not real.

A release has apparently been making the rounds online, claiming to be a release signed by DeSantis himself.

[RELATED: DeSantis gives his take on DEI after signing new ban into law]

That document alleges that DeSantis signed House Bill 626 into law this week, which prohibits “aimless driving” in Florida as of Friday. This includes joyriding, driving without a destination, and even just “cruising around.”

A viral notice claiming that Gov. DeSantis approved legislation to prohibit "aimless driving" in Florida (Public Record)

“Violators may face a $1,000 fine if caught driving without a destination,” the supposed release reads.

As of Thursday evening, one X post that shared the release had already gained over 125,000 views.

However, there is no House Bill 626 on record this year. House Bills are typically odd numbers - not even.

There was a Senate Bill 626, but that dealt with school attendance immunizations, and it died back in March.

Regardless, DeSantis responded to the viral notice on X, claiming, “If you are dumb enough to think that is authentic then you are too dumb to be driving a car.”

For a full list of real Florida laws that have been approved so far in 2026, click here.


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