The bill, SB 38, amends various sections of the Florida Statutes to rename the "Division of Investigative and Forensic Services" to the "Division of Criminal Investigations," aligning with recent legislative changes. This renaming is intended to create consistency across statutes related to fraud investigations, including those concerning Medicaid fraud control and insurance fraud reporting. The bill emphasizes the need for collaboration among agencies, such as the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and the newly named Division, to improve communication and coordination in addressing fraud and abuse.

In addition to the name change, SB 38 outlines specific responsibilities for the Division of Criminal Investigations, including the investigation of fraudulent insurance claims and the requirement for insurers to report fraud-related data. It establishes protections for the Chief Financial Officer and employees acting in good faith, ensures confidentiality of investigation documents, and empowers division investigators with law enforcement authority. The bill also mandates anti-fraud education for insurance personnel and the establishment of units within the Citizens Property Insurance Corporation to address consumer complaints. Overall, SB 38 aims to strengthen Florida's framework for combating insurance fraud through enhanced reporting requirements and improved investigative capabilities.

Statutes affected:
S 38 Filed: 16.59, 400.9935, 409.91212, 440.105, 440.12, 552.113, 624.115, 624.521, 626.016, 626.989, 626.9893, 626.9894, 626.9896, 626.99278, 627.351, 627.711, 631.156, 633.114, 641.30, 791.013, 817.234, 843.08
S 38 er: 16.59, 400.9935, 409.91212, 440.105, 440.12, 552.113, 624.115, 624.521, 626.016, 626.989, 626.9893, 626.9894, 626.9896, 626.99278, 627.351, 627.711, 631.156, 633.114, 641.30, 791.013, 817.234, 843.08