The bill amends section 768.28 of the Florida Statutes to revise the statutory limits on liability for tort claims against the state and its agencies. It introduces new liability limits based on the date the cause of action accrues, with claims accruing before October 1, 2025 limited to $200,000 for individual claims and $300,000 for multiple claims, while claims after this date can reach up to $1.1 million for individual claims and $3.2 million for multiple claims. The bill 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, it reduces the time frame for presenting claims from three years to 18 months and establishes a four-month period for the Department of Financial Services to make a final disposition of a claim.

Further provisions in the bill clarify liability and indemnification responsibilities concerning freight rail operators and Amtrak, allowing the department to assume liability under specific conditions and requiring liability insurance with a cap on indemnification not exceeding $200 million without legislative approval. The bill also emphasizes the liability protections for private landowners who provide emergency shelter and outlines the responsibilities of county boards in supporting newly elected sheriffs. It includes provisions for liability insurance for foster care providers and clarifies the liability of various public agencies, ensuring that they are covered under the limitations set forth in section 768.28. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline the legal framework surrounding liability and support for law enforcement and local government operations while maintaining protections for service providers and individuals.

Statutes affected:
S 1570 Filed: 944.713