Bill > S1596

This bill increases the minimum amount of professional liability coverage that physicians and osteopathic physicians in Florida must maintain as a condition of licensure, specifically for those performing surgery in licensed ambulatory surgical centers or holding hospital staff privileges. Previously, the requirement was $250,000 per claim and $750,000 annually, but this bill raises it to $1 million per claim and $3 million annually. This increased coverage can be met through professional liability insurance from various authorized entities, a risk retention group, a joint underwriting association, or a plan of self-insurance, or alternatively, through an irrevocable letter of credit from a bank. Importantly, these coverage amounts cannot be used for litigation costs or attorney fees for defending a medical malpractice claim. The bill also clarifies that the term "attorney's fees" in this context is replaced with "attorney fees." This legislation is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/1596