House Bill 1069 amends Florida's workers' compensation law by introducing the concept of "qualified compensation alternative employers" (QCARE employers). The bill revises the definition of "employee" to exclude those working for QCARE employers, allowing these employers to adopt a written occupational injury benefit plan that provides defined benefits on a no-fault basis. This plan can exclude certain intentional acts, and employees of QCARE employers are permitted to bring negligence claims against their employers, requiring proof of negligence while allowing employers to use standard defenses.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific requirements for QCARE employers, including the necessity to demonstrate financial responsibility and the option to self-fund or insure their benefits. It mandates comprehensive benefits such as medical expense coverage for at least 156 weeks, lost wage compensation of at least 75% of the employee's average weekly wages, and death benefits of no less than $150,000. The bill also addresses the taxation of benefits, stating that payments made by QCARE employers are treated as compensation for personal injury or sickness, and it requires approval from insurance carriers for claims administration. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2026.

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