9 New Florida Laws Going into Effect in 2025: What You Need to Know
From social media bans for minors to enhanced protection for vulnerable adults and changes to workers’ compensation claims, here are the nine new laws going into effect on January 1, 2025, in Florida.
As the countdown to 2025 begins, Floridians should get ready for more than just New Year’s parties and resolutions. Starting January 1, 2025, 9 new laws will impact residents across the Sunshine State. From reshaping social media rules for minors to protecting vulnerable adults and changing workers’ compensation claims, these new laws are important for everyone to know. In this blog, our Florida attorneys break down what you need to know about the nine new laws going into effect in Florida in 2025.
Nine Florida laws taking effect January 1, 2025
Most laws passed by Florida’s Legislature during their annual sessions take effect on January 1st of the following year. This gives everyone, from government agencies to businesses and regular Floridians, time to prepare for the changes. Here are the nine new laws coming to Florida in 2025, and why they matter to you.
1. New social media rules for kids and teens (HB 3)
Starting in 2025, kids under 14 can no longer create social media accounts without parental consent. And for teens 14-15, parents will need to sign off before they can scroll and post online. Social media platforms will also have to remove accounts of users under 14 and erase their personal data. This is all about keeping younger users safer from potential dangers like cyberbullying, online predators, and harmful content. Another part of House Bill 3 requires social media companies like Meta to verify the ages of users and gain parental consent for teens. So, if your teen is signing up for Instagram or Snapchat, platforms will need to check their age before allowing them to register.
2. Protection for first responders (SB 184)
First responders are on the front lines every day, and starting in 2025, threatening them could result in a first-degree misdemeanor. If someone approaches a first responder within 25 feet and interferes with their duties, they could face penalties. This law helps ensure that those working to keep us safe can do their jobs without unnecessary distractions or threats.
3. Changes to voter registration (HB 135)
Now under House Bill 135, if you’re updating your voter registration, written consent will be required for any changes to your political party affiliation. This law ensures transparency and helps avoid accidental or unauthorized alterations in party membership during registration updates.
4. Building permits and inspections (HB 267)
If you work in construction or are planning on building or renovating in 2025, House Bill 267 could impact your projects. The new law introduces changes to building codes that eliminates the requirement for seal drawings for window, door, or garage door replacements for one- or two-family dwellings. This new law is intended to help reduce costs and speed up timelines for construction projects in Florida. House Bill 267 includes specific details about how these new regulations impact contractors across the state. Learn more here.
5. Updates to workers’ compensation (SB 362)
A new law in Florida, Senate Bill 362, brings changes to workers’ compensation claims. The maximum reimbursement rates for medical treatments and surgical procedures related to workers’ compensation have been raised. Additionally, the fees for expert witnesses in these cases have increased from $200 to $300 per hour. This law mandates that all Florida employers with workers’ compensation insurance must provide injured workers with all medically necessary treatment, care, and assistance throughout their recovery.
Do you need help with a workers’ compensation claim? Our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys can help you file a claim or appeal denied or disputed claims. Learn more here.
6. Preventing financial exploitation of seniors (SB 556)
Unfortunately, older adults are often the targets of financial exploitation. Florida’s new Senate Bill 556 gives financial institutions the power to delay transactions if there’s suspicion of fraud or financial abuse. Banks can hold off on suspicious transfers or withdrawals and notify trusted family members of any questionable activity, giving vulnerable adults a stronger line of defense against scam artists.
7. Dental insurance reforms (SB 892)
Under Senate Bill 892, Florida is cracking down on unfair dental insurance practices, making it harder for insurers to impose hidden fees or deny claims that have already been approved. This should help both dentists and patients navigate insurance claims more smoothly, ensuring better access to care.
8. Private Activity Bonds (SB 7054)
This technical-sounding law impacts the financing of public-benefit projects, but it’s essential for local governments looking to improve their communities. Senate Bill 7054 adjusts the rules for the allocation of private activity bonds, making it easier to fund things like affordable housing and community development projects across Florida.
9. Updates to Florida trust and estate management (HB 1093)
House Bill 1093 introduces updates to the management of trusts and estates in Florida, offering more flexibility for residents. The new law replaces the Florida Uniform Principal and Income Act with the Florida Uniform Fiduciary Income and Principal Act. Here’s what this change means for you:
- Florida now adopts a “modern portfolio theory,” which allows trustees to invest with the goal of achieving the highest possible total return.
- Existing trusts can be converted into unitrusts, providing more flexibility in making distributions.
- The updated law enhances the ability to tailor and customize estate planning strategies to better meet individual needs.
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