Florida approved more than 200 new laws this year, and several of them are scheduled to take effect on New Year’s Day. While most statutes are already active, three new laws officially begin Jan. 1, alongside new provisions from previously enacted measures.
HB 255 — Animal Cruelty Database (“Dexter’s Law”)
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Creates harsher penalties for animal cruelty, including intentionally torturing an animal to death.
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Requires FDLE to launch a public, searchable database of individuals convicted of animal cruelty beginning Jan. 1, 2026.
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The bill was inspired by “Dexter,” a shelter dog later found beheaded in Fort DeSoto Park.
HB 655 — Pet Insurance
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Adds pet insurance to Florida’s definition of “property insurance.”
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Covers pet injuries and illness.
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Imposes new disclosure rules and bars agents from misrepresenting wellness programs as full pet insurance.
SB 158 — Breast Examinations
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Bans the state group insurance program from charging any cost-sharing (copays, deductibles, etc.) for diagnostic or supplemental breast exams provided to state employees.
SB 944 — Insurance Claims
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Cuts the deadline for health insurers and HMOs to submit claims to licensed psychologists from 30 months to 12 months.
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Although the law took effect July 1, it applies only to services provided on or after Jan. 1, 2026.
SB 1808 — Patient Refunds
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Requires health care practitioners to refund any patient overpayment within 30 days.
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Violators can face fines up to $500.