Bill > H0449

This bill amends Section 337.195 of the Florida Statutes to clarify the legal relationship between the Department of Transportation and its contractors. Specifically, the bill establishes that contractors are considered agents of the state while performing work within the scope of their contract documents. Moreover, the bill requires contract documents to include provisions that indemnify the department for any liability, including reasonable attorney fees, that arise from the negligence of the contractor or its employees, up to the liability limits specified in existing law. This means that if a contractor or its employees cause damage or incur legal liability during a project, the contractor will be responsible for covering the associated costs and protecting the state from financial harm. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, providing ample time for the Department of Transportation to update its contract templates and procedures to align with the new requirements.

Justice

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/449