HB 6017, a historic bill intended to overturn the state’s contentious “Free Kill” statute, was approved by the Florida House of Representatives on March 26.
There has long been discussion about this regulation, which protected medical professionals from being held accountable for fatal malpractice instances involving single people without dependents.
The passing of the measure represents a major advancement in resolving the grievances of families who believed they had been unjustly denied justice following the loss of a loved one as a result of medical malpractice.
Families that lost loved ones as a result of the “Free Kill” statute, which was passed with the goal of drawing medical experts to Florida, were greatly impacted.
If the dead was at least 25 years old, single, and without dependents at the time of their death, the rule effectively eliminated the possibility of families to sue physicians or institutions for medical misconduct.
Due to this clause, many people who fit into these categories were unable to pursue justice for the deaths of their loved ones, leaving families with little options following tragic losses.
The problem was initially brought to light in 2023 when the detrimental consequences of the law were made public, highlighting the struggles endured by families who had no legal means of holding healthcare providers responsible.
With resounding support in its first two committee hearings and a seamless transit through the House floor, the bill has already garnered almost unanimous support throughout the legislative process.
Additionally, the Senate has advanced SB 734, a related bill supported by Senator Clay Yarborough. Removing the “Free Kill” provision would send a clear message that no person or organization should be above accountability, stressed Senator Yarborough, a fervent supporter of healthcare accountability.
Yarborough declared, “No person or organization is above accountability,” adding that he thought the law’s repeal will contribute to increased openness and equity in the healthcare sector.
Florida Lawmakers Move Forward with Bills to Eliminate Plastic Restrictions
In the event that the bill passes the Senate, it will proceed to Governor DeSantis for final approval. The repeal of the “Free Kill” statute would take effect on July 1, 2025, if the governor signs the bill into law.
This would be a major win for those who are fighting for patients and their families in Florida to have more rights and safeguards.
A significant change in Florida’s healthcare regulations would result from the removal of the “Free Kill” rule, demonstrating a dedication to making healthcare providers and organizations responsible for their deeds.
In order to ensure that families have the ability to pursue justice when their loved ones suffer avoidable injury, this measure is viewed as a step toward rebuilding confidence in the state’s healthcare system.
This Information has been sourced from abcactionnews.
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