The bill establishes the Coastal Link Commuter Rail Service in Florida, introducing sections 343.711 and 343.712, which authorize state agencies to assume indemnification obligations for commuter rail providers, specifically Brightline and Florida East Coast Railway (FECR). It outlines the parameters for liability allocation, including a cap on indemnification at $323 million per occurrence, which may be adjusted based on federal regulations regarding allowable awards to rail passengers. The bill also clarifies that employees of operators are not considered invitees when present for business purposes related to another operator, and it specifies that liability allocation between agencies must be mutually agreed upon.
Additionally, the bill allows agencies to purchase liability insurance and establish a self-insurance retention fund to cover deductible limits in their policies. It emphasizes that the creation of insurance or self-insurance does not waive sovereign immunity for tort claims or increase existing liability limits. The bill further clarifies that entities like FECR and Brightline, along with their employees, are not considered state officers and do not enjoy sovereign immunity. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on July 1, 2025.