Capitol Update: Quick highlights of health care issues discussed as the Florida Legislature moves toward the start of the 2026 Legislative Session.

Note: Friday, Nov 21st, is the deadline for ALL bills to be submitted by a legislator into Bill Drafting.

Legislators have until the start of Session to "file" a bill, and a bill does not become public until such filing where it receives a bill number.

2 more committee weeks remain in December prior to the start of Session in January. Many bills will not be formally filed or introduced until January, but must have met today's drafting deadline.

Senate Health Policy

Chair: Senator Colleen Burton, R, Lakeland

➡️The following bills received successful passage by the Committee

SB 68

Health Care Patient Protection:

Pediatric Preparedness in Emergency Departments

by Senator Harrell

Members questioned the fiscal impact on hospitals and the necessity of specialized equipment for low-volume pediatric cases, while supporters argued the measures were not overly burdensome and could save children’s lives. Senators also highlighted that no hospitals voiced objections and that rigorous pediatric readiness was essential.

SB 154

Mobile Opportunity by Interstate Licensure Endorsement Act & Dentists

by Senator Harrell

Note the committee also received the following briefing:

Review of Health Care Practitioner Interstate Licensure Compacts by the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA)

SB 254

Nursing Education Programs

by Senator Harrell

Members asked about clarifying “adverse action” triggers, eliminating extended probation, and whether the changes might shut down private nursing programs, while supporters highlighted the importance of raising NCLEX passage rates and ensuring oversight. The debate centered on balancing stricter requirements against maintaining an adequate nurse pipeline, with an expectation of refinements before final enactment.

House Judiciary

Chair: Rep Chuck Brannan, R, Lake City

HB 6003

Recovery of Damages for Medical Negligence Resulting in Death

by Rep Trabulsy

House Civil Justice & Claims

Chair: Rep Traci Koster, R, Safety Harbor

HB 289

Civil Liability for the Wrongful Death of an Unborn Child

By Rep Greco

Members questioned the bill’s definitions, raising concerns about paternal rights, surrogacy, and scenarios involving abusive partners or rapists, while proponents argued it aligns Florida with most states in recognizing wrongful death for unborn children. Opponents cautioned about unintended litigation and impacts on medical care, particularly for reproductive services.

Political Clips: What Lawmakers are Reading

Speaker Daniel Perez sent House members a memoranda Tuesday designating the final interim committee week,

December 8-12, 2025,

as "Artificial Intelligence Week"

in the Florida House of Representatives