JANUARY 1, 2025
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks during a news conference held at the Santorini by Georgios restaurant on March 20, 2024 in Miami Beach, Florida. Several new rules will take effect in Florida on January 1, 2025. Joe Raedle/Getty Images
A new year brings new laws, and several are set to take effect in Florida on January 1, 2025.
At least 10 new laws will be introduced in the Sunshine State at the start of the year, including measures to restrict social media use for children, protect first responders on duty, and reform the management of dental insurance claims.
Newsweek reached out to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ office for comment via email.
Social Media Restrictions for Minors (HB 3)
This law prohibits children under 14 from creating or accessing social media accounts.
Minors aged 14 and 15 can still use social media accounts with parental consent. The legislation aims to protect young users from harmful online content, including risks to their mental health.
Age Verification for Adult Websites (HB 3)
In addition to social media restrictions, HB 3 requires websites that provide content considered harmful to children to implement age verification measures to prevent minors from accessing them starting in 2025.
Pornhub, the world’s largest pornography website, has threatened to restrict access to the site to Florida residents rather than comply with the new state law.
Protections for First Responders (SB 184)
This legislation makes it unlawful to harass, threaten, or intimidate first responders while they are performing official duties after a person has received a warning.
Once warned, individuals must not approach within 25 feet of a first responder performing their duties.
Voter Registration Applications (HB 135)
Under this amendment, voters can now provide written consent to allow a change in their party affiliation.
The rule addresses a glitch that allowed the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to change voters’ affiliations without their knowledge during driver’s license renewals, according to Florida Politics.
Building Regulations (HB 267)
Starting January 1, the Florida Building Commission must update the state’s building code regarding replacement windows, doors, and garage doors. Sealed drawings by a design professional will not be required for family homes if specific state regulations are met.
The law will also require local governments to approve or deny most permits for buildings up to 7,500 square feet within 30 days and within 60 business days for larger structures.
Dental Insurance Claims (SB 892)
Health insurers in Florida are now prohibited from charging fees to transmit payments to dentists via Automated Clearing House (ACH) transfers unless the dentist consents.
The reforms also prevent insurers from requiring credit card payments as the sole reimbursement method for dentists. Insurers also cannot deny claims for procedures included in prior authorizations.
Workers’ Compensation Medical Reimbursement (SB 362)
This law increases the witness fee for health care providers giving depositions from $200 to $300 per hour.
The maximum reimbursement for physicians and surgical procedures allowed by Medicare will also increase under SB 362.
Protection of Specified Adults (SB 556)
This law aims to prevent the financial exploitation of elderly or vulnerable adults under the power of attorney, guardianship, or conservatorship.
Financial institutions may delay disbursements or transactions for up to 15 days if they suspect foul play.
Private Activity Bond Improvements (SB 7054)
This bill revises laws related to private activity bonds. It requires the Division of Bond Finance of the State Board of Administration to determine the state’s volume limitation annually and publicize the information. It also outlines requirements for notices of intent to issue private activity bonds.
Confidentiality in Investigations (HB 1491)
A companion to HB 3, this legislation prevents the public disclosure of information related to investigations by the Department of Legal Affairs into certain social media violations until the investigation is completed or resolved. This includes violations related to age verification.
Courtesy/Source: Newsweek
