Last week, the Florida House passed Senate Bill 832, a measure that rolls back several lawsuit abuse reform efforts established in 2023. The bill introduces changes that could increase damage awards during trials by making it harder for juries to view actual medical costs incurred by plaintiffs. Additionally, it permits attorneys’ fees to be awarded to plaintiffs in most lawsuits against insurance companies, a practice previously prohibited under the 2023 tort reform bill.
The legislation has sparked concern within the small business community, which had initially championed the reforms aimed at curbing lawsuit abuse. Proponents of the original reform measures argue that the new bill could lead to higher insurance premiums and create a less favorable environment for businesses operating in the state.
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