Florida’s ‘move over’ traffic law and several others take effect in 2024

Several Florida laws, including a “move over” traffic law, will see changes on January 1, 2024.

Lawmakers passed five bills during the 2023 regular legislative session and special sessions that will take effect in January. But 2024 will also bring other changes.

One of the most visible changes is an expansion of the “move over” law, which requires drivers to move out of the lane closest to stopped vehicles such as police cars, ambulances, and utility vehicles.

As part of a sweeping traffic bill (HB 425) passed during the regular session, starting Monday, motorists will have to provide space when disabled vehicles are stopped along the road while people are visible or things like warning lights are on. Violations are punishable by a fine of up to $158 for a non-criminal traffic violation.

Among the other changes that will take place in January:

– A year-long program to provide credits to frequent toll road users ends Sunday. The program has provided a 50 percent credit to motorists who use SunPass or other Florida transponders and make 35 or more toll road trips in a month.

— Mayors and other local elected officials must provide more detailed financial disclosure information on topics such as income, assets and liabilities. Lawmakers and statewide elected officials are already submitting the more detailed forms.

– Florida companies will see a 15.1 percent decrease in workers’ compensation insurance rates overall, although rate changes will vary for individual companies.

– From Monday to January 14th there will be a back-to-school “holiday”. Shoppers can avoid sales tax on clothing that costs $100 or less, school supplies that cost $50 or less, learning aids that cost $30 or less, and personal computers that cost $1,500 or less.

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– Floridians can reserve campgrounds and cabins at state parks 11 months in advance, while non-Floridians can only reserve 10 months in advance.

– With some exceptions, district courts must provide breastfeeding rooms by Monday.

– As part of a law that expands eligibility for coverage in the subsidized health insurance program KidCare, Florida Healthy Kids Corp. Set premium levels based on household income.