Bill > H1553

This bill amends existing Florida law regarding the admissibility of evidence for medical expenses in personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits, aiming to clarify how past and future medical costs can be proven or challenged. Specifically, it revises provisions to allow parties to present evidence that either supports or refutes the amount of damages claimed for medical treatment or services. The bill outlines various types of evidence that can be used, depending on whether the injured party has health insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, or is treating under a "letter of protection" (a promise to pay a healthcare provider from a future settlement or judgment). For past medical expenses, the evidence is generally limited to the amount actually paid or what insurance would have paid, with specific percentages of Medicare or Medicaid rates also being admissible if the claimant lacks other coverage. For future medical expenses, similar evidence is allowed, considering potential insurance coverage or Medicare/Medicaid rates. The bill also clarifies that it doesn't require parties to actively seek reductions in billed charges or to present specific types of evidence made admissible by these changes, and states that individual contracts between providers and insurers are not discoverable or admissible.

Justice

Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee (House)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/1553