New Florida Laws Now in Effect (2026)

New year, new laws. That's right. Coming with the new year are a few new rules for those residing in Florida. Many know that Florida is known for so much craziness, but a few new laws that went into effect on January 1, 2026, you may want to know about.

Take a look below at a few of the newest laws that went into effect on January 1st.

SB 1808: If a healthcare professional or facility finds out a patient paid too much, they must give a refund within 30 days. If they don't do it, they could face disciplinary action or fines. This rule does not apply to overpayments made by insurance companies. Click here to read all about it.

SB 944: Health insurance companies and HMOs will have only 12 months (not 30) to ask licensed psychologists to pay back any overpaid claims. The change means psychologists will have the same 12-month time limit as other healthcare professionals. Click here to read more.

SB 158: The state's health insurance plans for employees won't require you to pay any extra costs for diagnostic breast exams or additional breast exams. This means that exams will be fully covered. Click here to read.

HB 255: The Florida Department of Law Enforcement will put the names of people who have been found guilty or have pleaded guilty or no contest to animal cruelty on their website. Click here to read more.

HB 655: Pet insurance companies have to clearly explain to those applying for or holding pet insurance how they decide on claim payments. They also have to share any rules about required medical exams for pets. Insurance companies can refuse to cover preexisting health problems, but they have to prove those conditions existed before. Companies can require an exam after you buy a policy, but they cannot ask for an exam just to renew your policy. Read more here.