Gov. Ron DeSantis this week signed several heath care-related bills, including a measure to allow the Florida Farm Bureau to offer largely unregulated medical coverage to members.
The bill (SB 480), which overwhelmingly passed the Legislature in April, will clear the way for “medical benefit plans” for farmers and ranchers that would not be subject to the same state and federal regulations as health insurance.
Other bills signed into law include:
Arrest discretion (HB 1099): This law gives law enforcement more discretion when determining whether to make an immediate arrest of a person with a “significant” medical condition residing in a hospital, nursing home or assisted living facility. The officer may instead use other lawful methods, including a warrant. Officers can consider medical status and risk to public safety. Effective July 1.
Breast exams (SB 158): This law bans the state group insurance program from imposing cost-sharing liability for breast examinations in any contract or plan for state employee health. Effective Jan. 1.
Psychologist claims (SB 944): This law reduces the look-back period for an insurer or health maintenance organization to submit claims for overpayments to psychologists from 30 months to 12 months. Effective July 1.
Diabetes detection (SB 958): This law requires the Florida Department of Health to work with school districts and charter schools to develop informational materials on the early detection of Type 1 diabetes for parents and guardians of students. Effective July 1.
Anaphylaxis in schools (SB 1514): This law adds requirements that K-8 schools are equipped to respond to anaphylaxis and other allergic reactions. Also, that school staff are trained to respond, including how to administer epinephrine. Effective July 1.
Overpayment refunds (SB 1808): This law requires health practitioners to refund patient overpayments within 30 days or face fines up to $500. Effective Jan. 1.
APRN services (HB 647): This law allows advanced practice registered nurses providing hospice care and acting in a protocol with a physician to complete or file a death certificate. Effective July 1.
Newborn screenings (HB 1089): This law requires certain newborns to be screened for Duchenne muscular dystrophy beginning in 2027.
Disability instruction (HB 447): This law (Evin B. Hartsell Act) requires school districts to teach students about disability history and awareness. Materials based on grades levels. Effective July 1.
Information from News Service of Florida was used in this report.
