In 2024, Florida lawmakers and Governor Ron DeSantis passed more than 200 new state laws, with the majority coming into effect in July and October. However, several more laws from the same legislative session, including Amendment 5, which was approved by voters in the recent General Election, will take effect at the start of the New Year. These laws cover various topics, such as social media restrictions, enhancing first responder safety, and addressing financial exploitation.
Below is a list of the new laws:
Social Media Restrictions for Minors (HB 3)
This new law prohibits children under the age of 14 from creating or accessing social media accounts. Minors aged 14 and 15 can still use social media accounts, but only with parental consent. The legislation aims to protect young users from harmful online content, including potential risks to their mental health.
Age Verification for Adult Websites (HB 3)
In addition to social media restrictions, HB 3 mandates that websites offering content considered harmful to children implement age verification measures to prevent minors from accessing them, starting in 2025. Notably, Pornhub, the world’s largest pornography website, has threatened to restrict access to Florida residents rather than comply with the new state law.
Protections for First Responders (SB 184)
This legislation makes it illegal to harass, threaten, or intimidate first responders while they are performing their official duties, after receiving a warning. Once warned, individuals must maintain a distance of at least 25 feet from first responders during their duties. The law aims to enhance the safety and well-being of those on the front lines of emergency services.
Voter Registration Applications (HB 135)
This amendment allows voters to provide written consent for changes to their party affiliation. The law addresses a glitch in the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles’ system that previously allowed party affiliations to be altered without voters’ knowledge during driver’s license renewals, as reported by Florida Politics.
Building Regulations (HB 267)
Starting January 1, the Florida Building Commission is required to update the state’s building code, particularly for the replacement of windows, doors, and garage doors. Sealed drawings by a design professional will no longer be needed for family homes if they meet certain state standards. Additionally, the law mandates that local governments approve or deny most building permits for structures up to 7,500 square feet within 30 days, and within 60 business days for larger buildings.
Dental Insurance Claims (SB 892)
Florida health insurers are now prohibited from charging fees for transmitting payments to dentists via Automated Clearing House (ACH) transfers unless the dentist consents. The reforms also prevent insurers from requiring credit card payments as the only reimbursement method for dentists. Furthermore, insurers cannot deny claims for procedures that were previously authorized.
Workers’ Compensation Medical Reimbursement (SB 362)
This law increases the witness fee for health care providers giving depositions from $200 to $300 per hour. Additionally, SB 362 raises the maximum reimbursement for physicians and surgical procedures, aligning them with increased Medicare reimbursement rates.
Protection of Specified Adults (SB 556)
SB 556 aims to protect elderly or vulnerable adults from financial exploitation, particularly those under power of attorney, guardianship, or conservatorship. The law empowers financial institutions to delay disbursements or transactions for up to 15 days if they suspect financial wrongdoing.
Private Activity Bond Improvements (SB 7054)
This bill makes revisions to laws governing private activity bonds. It mandates that the Division of Bond Finance of the State Board of Administration determine and publicize the state’s annual volume limitation for such bonds. The law also outlines requirements for issuing notices of intent to issue private activity bonds.
Confidentiality in Investigations (HB 1491)
A companion to HB 3, this legislation ensures that information regarding investigations by the Department of Legal Affairs into certain social media violations remains confidential until the investigation is resolved. This includes violations related to age verification on social media platforms.
