By Paul Waldmiller
Did you know that we have new laws in Florida that went into effect on January 1st, 2023?
Property Insurance-The Florida legislature passed sweeping property insurance reform last month during a special session to address the deteriorating property insurance market here. In part, the new law stops the ability of any homeowner policyholder to execute an Assignment of Benefit Agreement for all property insurance policies.
School Book Selections-A new law makes available training for school librarians, and those who decide the selection of school library materials so that in part, provide “age-appropriate materials and library resources.”
Electronic Filing of Taxes-The state will reduce the electronic filing threshold for taxpayers remitting and filing taxes from $20,000, to $5,000.
Newborn Screening of Newborns-This new law requires hospitals or any licensed birthing facility to test every newborn for Congenital Cytomegalovirus which can cause hearing loss.
Toll Relief-Floridians who record 35 or more toll transactions per month using a State of Florida issued electronic transponder will be eligible for an account credit of 50% of all toll charges. The credit will be returned to a driver’s account per month after the credit is earned.
Financial Rule for Cryptocurrency-New Florida Law has been updated so any individual wishing to sell cryptocurrency will not need a money transmitter license in doing so.
Lobbying Ban-This new law implements penalties for former legislators as well as former judges who illegally lobby certain government agencies within a certain time period. Penalties can include a $10,000 fine, and forfeiting pecuniary benefits received from violating the ban.
Appellate Courts-Florida’s appellate courts will be revamped. A 6th District Court of Appeal was created and the 1st, 2ndand 5th District Court of Appeal were revised.