Over 200 Florida laws go into effect today: Here’s the complete list
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The dawn of a new legislative era has arrived in Florida, as a staggering 185 new laws have taken effect as of Monday. This extensive legislative overhaul, a culmination of the tireless efforts of Florida lawmakers and the astute guidance of Gov. Ron DeSantis, marks a pivotal moment in the 2024 Legislative Session. These newly enacted laws span a wide array of subjects, ranging from insurance and crime to education, tax relief, and environmentalism, among numerous others. The dynamic nature of these laws underscores the state’s commitment to progress and reform in diverse sectors crucial to the well-being of its populace.
One of the landmark laws that has come into effect is House Bill 21, which establishes a compensation program for victims of the infamous Arthur G. Dozier School for Boys. This reform school, founded in Marianna in 1900, harbored children as young as 5 years old who were sent there for various offenses, from truancy to murder. Shocking reports of abuse, including chaining, whipping, severe beatings, sexual abuse, and even death, marred the history of this institution. The discovery of human remains in unmarked graves on the school’s premises further underscored the need for redress and justice for the victims. The Dozier School for Boys and Okeechobee School Victim Compensation Program, established under this law, seeks to provide restitution to those who endured abuse during their confinement at these schools between 1940 and 1975.
Another significant law, House Bill 49, focuses on enhancing the labor rights of 16- and 17-year-olds in Florida. By removing restrictions on the number of hours these teens can work per day and week, this law aligns their work hours with those of adults. Additionally, it mandates meal breaks and limits on work hours in consideration of school schedules, ensuring the well-being and educational pursuits of young workers. These amendments to teen labor regulations reflect a nuanced approach to labor laws that prioritizes the rights and welfare of young workers.
House Bill 73 introduces a groundbreaking “supportive decision-making agreement” for individuals with developmental disabilities, empowering them to make informed decisions with the assistance of a designated supporter. This innovative approach to decision-making for individuals with disabilities underscores the state’s commitment to inclusivity and autonomy for all its citizens. Furthermore, the law incorporates the supportive decision-making agreement as a tool for parents in educational decision-making, enhancing collaboration and communication in educational settings.
In a bid to protect homeowners’ rights and promote transparency, House Bill 59 mandates that homeowners’ associations provide members with copies of their rules and covenants, facilitating informed decision-making and accountability within these communities. This emphasis on transparency and accessibility of information underscores the state’s dedication to promoting equitable governance and fostering harmonious relationships within homeowners’ associations. These laws, among numerous others, herald a new era of governance in Florida, characterized by progressive reforms and a steadfast commitment to the welfare of its citizens.
