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Florida will roll out a handful of already signed, already on-the-books changes on January 1, 2026, with at least one notable change slated for July 1, 2026. Here are the practical highlights, written for regular people who just want to know what actually changes.
Starting January 1, 2026
1) Patients get faster refunds for medical overpayments
A new rule requires health care facilities and practitioners to refund patient overpayments within a defined timeframe, with enforcement mechanisms tied to violations. Effective January 1, 2026. The Florida Senate
2) Pet insurance gets more “consumer label” style disclosures
Pet insurers will have to provide clearer disclosures about how claims are paid, waiting periods, preexisting condition exclusions, and wellness program rules, among other items. Effective January 1, 2026. The Florida Senate
3) Breast imaging coverage change for the state group insurance program
The state group insurance program will be prohibited from imposing cost-sharing on enrollees for certain diagnostic and supplemental breast examinations. Effective January 1, 2026. The Florida Senate
4) “Dexter’s Law” database goes live for animal cruelty offenders
Florida’s Department of Law Enforcement is required, beginning January 1, 2026, to publish a searchable list of qualifying animal cruelty offenders (convictions and certain pleas), even though the act itself took effect earlier. The Florida Senate+1
5) Psychologist overpayment clawbacks get a new “starting line”
A law that changes how far back certain overpayment recovery can reach is written to apply to services beginning January 1, 2026, even though the act’s general effective date is earlier. In plain terms, the practical impact is keyed to 2026 services. The Florida Senate
6) Condo associations: bigger online posting requirements expand to smaller communities
Condominium associations with 25 or more units (with some exceptions) will face expanded requirements to post key records and notices on an association website or mobile app starting January 1, 2026. The statute spells out categories that must be posted, and includes a note showing the effective date for the expanded threshold. The Florida Senate
7) Impact fees: tougher rules for big increases
Changes tied to impact fee increases kick in January 1, 2026, including a higher vote threshold (unanimous) for certain “extraordinary circumstance” increases, plus tighter conditions around when that method can be used. The Florida Senate+1
Starting July 1, 2026
Gold and silver “legal tender” framework (optional use)
Florida enacted a framework to recognize qualifying gold and silver coin as legal tender for certain debts incurred on or after July 1, 2026, with implementation tied to required rules and legislative ratification. The Florida Senate+2The Florida Senate+2
A quick reminder from Tidings Media
This is a news-style summary, not legal advice. For anything that affects a contract, a medical bill dispute, a condo association compliance plan, or a development project, the safest move is to read the underlying statute or bill text and talk to a qualified professional.
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