House Bill 1069 amends Florida Statutes concerning occupational injury benefit plans, particularly redefining "employee" to exclude independent contractors and certain worker categories, while introducing "qualified compensation alternative employers" (QCARE employers). This bill allows QCARE employers to adopt a different compensation structure, providing exceptions to specific provisions of Chapter 440. It requires these employers to implement a written occupational injury benefit plan that offers defined benefits on a no-fault basis, with exclusions for willful acts, and outlines the conditions under which employees can pursue negligence claims against them.

The legislation mandates that QCARE employers provide comprehensive benefits, including medical coverage for at least 156 weeks, lost wage compensation of at least 75% of average weekly wages, and death benefits of no less than $150,000, along with funeral expenses up to $10,000. It also requires QCARE employers to demonstrate financial responsibility through insurance coverage of at least $1 million per occurrence. Additionally, the bill clarifies the taxation of benefits, stipulating that payments made by QCARE employers are treated as compensation for personal injury or sickness. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2026, and includes amendments to existing statutes to clarify definitions and responsibilities related to wage statements upon employee termination.

Statutes affected:
H 1069 Filed: 440.03, 440.06, 440.14, 440.385