House Bill 145 amends section 768.28 of the Florida Statutes to increase the statutory limits on liability for tort claims against the state and its agencies. The new limits are structured based on the date the cause of action accrues: for claims before October 1, 2026, the limit is $200,000 for a single claim and $300,000 for multiple claims; for claims between October 1, 2026, and October 1, 2031, the limits rise to $500,000 and $1 million; and for claims on or after October 1, 2031, the limits are set at $600,000 and $1.2 million. The bill also allows state subdivisions to settle claims exceeding these limits without legislative action and prohibits insurance policies from conditioning payment on the enactment of a claim bill. Additionally, it reduces the timeframe for presenting claims from three years to 18 months and modifies the statute of limitations for negligence claims against the state from four years to two years.

The bill further clarifies liability protections for various entities, including private landowners and health care providers, and establishes specific liability provisions for lead agencies and subcontractors involved in community-based care services. It mandates minimum insurance coverage for these agencies and caps damages in tort actions. The bill also addresses the governance of the Florida Virtual School, ensuring it is managed by a board of trustees appointed by the Governor, and aligns the liability of district school boards with that of the state. Overall, House Bill 145 aims to streamline the claims process, enhance liability protections, and clarify the legal framework surrounding tort claims and public service in Florida.

Statutes affected:
H 145 Filed: 944.713