This bill provides for the relief of J.N., a minor, by authorizing Hillsborough County to compensate her parent and guardian, Stephany Grullon, with an additional $400,000 for injuries sustained due to the county's negligence in maintaining sidewalks and culvert systems. The bill outlines the circumstances of the accident, which occurred on June 7, 2019, when J.N. fell from her bicycle after hitting an uneven sidewalk, resulting in severe injuries that required multiple surgeries. Hillsborough County had previously settled with Grullon for $200,000, which is the limit under Florida's sovereign immunity law, but the county has acknowledged the need for further compensation.
The bill includes several key insertions into current law, such as the declaration of the facts stated in the preamble as true, the authorization for Hillsborough County to appropriate the additional funds, and the stipulation that the total amount paid for attorney fees and related expenses may not exceed 25% of the total awarded amount. The act is set to take effect upon becoming law, ensuring that J.N. receives the necessary financial support for her ongoing medical and emotional needs resulting from the incident.