House Bill 301 (HB 301) amends various sections of the Florida Statutes to enhance liability protections and clarify responsibilities for state entities, public officials, and volunteers. The bill increases the statutory limits on liability for tort claims against the state and its subdivisions, establishing new limits based on the date the cause of action accrues, ranging from $200,000 for claims accruing before October 1, 2025, to $1.1 million for claims accruing after October 1, 2030. It also allows state subdivisions to settle claims exceeding these limits without legislative action and prohibits insurance policies from conditioning benefits on the enactment of a claim bill. Additionally, the bill reduces the timeframe for presenting claims from three years to 18 months and updates the statute of limitations for various claims.

Furthermore, HB 301 reinforces sovereign immunity and liability limitations for public entities, including those involved in emergency management and health services. It specifies that volunteers are covered under state liability protection and outlines the responsibilities of county commissioners in supporting newly elected sheriffs. The bill mandates that community-based care agencies maintain specific levels of liability insurance and establishes caps on damages in tort actions against them. It also includes provisions for management corporations to ensure accountability and compliance with state objectives. Overall, HB 301 aims to clarify the legal framework surrounding liability and protection for public officials and service providers in Florida while enhancing operational efficiency and safety for vulnerable populations.

Statutes affected:
H 301 Filed: 944.713