Below is a press release from the Florida Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse (CALA) regarding Governor Ron DeSantis’ recent veto of a bill.
Governor DeSantis took decisive action to veto harmful medical malpractice legislation, honoring his commitment to rein in lawsuit abuse in Florida. If this legislation were signed into law, it would have led to a shortage of doctors, longer waits for appointments, and delays in receiving critical care.
In 2023, the Governor and legislature utilized two ‘special sessions’ along with the regular session to enact meaningful tort reforms. These collective efforts aimed to protect Floridians from the grip that billboard attorneys have held over Tallahassee for decades. Reforms passed in 2023 have had a significant impact and have contributed to a more hospitable insurance market. This session, those hard-won reforms came under threat. Today’s veto affirms Governor DeSantis’ commitment to tort reform.
“Once again, the residents of Florida have been safeguarded by the Governor’s strong commitment to civil justice. HB 6017 would have reversed key protections and expanded noneconomic damages while opening the door to limitless intangible loss verdicts in areas like pain and suffering.T\Executive Director of Florida CALA Tom Gaitens said. “On behalf of our advocates across the state, FL CALA thanks Governor DeSantis for his commitment to end abusive lawsuits.”
