The "Health Care Freedom Act," also known as HB 681, proposes significant changes to Florida's healthcare laws, particularly concerning abortion services and gender-affirming care. The bill seeks to repeal existing statutes that restrict state funding for travel related to abortion and sex-reassignment procedures, while introducing a new requirement for healthcare facilities to provide patients with a list of services they refuse to offer. This policy must be in place by October 1, 2026, and includes penalties for non-compliance. Additionally, the bill amends various sections of Florida Statutes to redefine terms related to pregnancy support services, remove the definition of "fatal fetal abnormality," and revise regulations surrounding abortion, including the prohibition of telehealth for these services.

Furthermore, HB 681 expands Medicaid coverage to include treatments for gender dysphoria, ensuring that reimbursement is not denied based on gender identity, and prohibits discrimination against transgender individuals. The bill also mandates annual reports from the Medicaid agency to address overpayments and fraud, while updating licensing requirements for healthcare practitioners and mental health service providers. Overall, the legislation reflects a shift towards stricter abortion regulations while enhancing Medicaid services for gender-related health needs, with an effective date set for July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 681 Filed: 286.31, 286.311, 381.96, 390.011, 390.012, 456.47, 456.52, 61.517, 61.534, 409.908, 409.913, 456.074, 636.0145