The bill amends section 760.11 of the Florida Statutes, which pertains to administrative and civil remedies for violations of the Florida Civil Rights Act. Notably, it removes the requirement for the Florida Commission on Human Relations to send copies of complaints by registered mail, streamlining the notification process. Additionally, the bill establishes specific timeframes for commencing civil actions related to discrimination claims, requiring such actions to be initiated within one year of the commission's determination of reasonable cause or the issuance of a Notice of Right to Sue by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, whichever occurs first. If no determination is made within 180 days, the timeframe extends to 18 months from the filing of the complaint.

Furthermore, the bill includes technical changes and clarifications regarding the awarding of attorney fees, stating that the court may allow reasonable attorney fees as part of the costs for the prevailing party. It also specifies that punitive damages against the state and its agencies are not permitted, and the total recovery against them is limited as outlined in existing law. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 1407 Filed: 760.11