The bill CS/CS/HB 1291 amends the Florida Birth-Related Neurological Injury Compensation Plan to enhance benefits and streamline the compensation process for families affected by birth-related neurological injuries. Key provisions include the introduction of psychotherapeutic services for family members, transportation assistance for participants needing wheelchair accommodations, and housing assistance for home-related expenses. The bill also establishes a reimbursement process for medically necessary care received prior to obtaining health coverage and mandates that family members maintain comprehensive health coverage for the participant. Additionally, it modifies the assessment structure for participating physicians, introducing a $5,000 annual assessment while exempting certain categories of physicians and allowing certified nurse midwives to participate under specific conditions.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes financial management and operational soundness by requiring biennial actuarial valuations of the plan's assets and liabilities, with the Office of Insurance Regulation authorized to take corrective actions if the plan is found to be financially unstable. The governance structure is also revised to allow a family member of a participant to serve on the board of directors, replacing the previous requirement for a parent or legal guardian. The association is prohibited from expanding benefits if operating expenses exceed revenue, and it must adhere to annual reporting requirements to ensure transparency and accountability. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 1291 Filed: 409.910, 766.302, 766.303, 766.309, 766.31, 766.314, 766.315
H 1291 c1: 409.910, 766.302, 766.303, 766.309, 766.31, 766.314, 766.315
H 1291 c2: 409.910, 766.302, 766.303, 766.309, 766.31, 766.314