Florida is set to implement a range of new laws in 2024, covering areas such as government transparency, road safety, and consumer benefits.
These laws, which were passed earlier in the year, are now in effect for 2024.
Ending the Toll-Road Credit Program
One significant change taking place is the conclusion of the year-long toll-road credit program. This program has provided motorists who use SunPass or other Florida transponders with a 50 percent credit if they make 35 or more toll-road trips in a month.
However, on January 1st, this program came to an end, so frequent toll-road users will no longer receive this credit.
Enhanced ‘Move Over’ Law
Floridians have long been required to make way for emergency vehicles, tow trucks, and municipal vehicles, but now drivers are required to yield to a disabled vehicle that has hazard lights, emergency flares, or emergency signage.
Violators could be fined up to $158 for a noncriminal moving violation.
Enhanced Financial Disclosure for Elected Officials
To promote government transparency, mayors and other elected municipal officials will be required to submit more detailed financial disclosure information. This information will cover issues such as incomes, assets, and liabilities. Previously, legislators and statewide elected officials already filed more detailed forms. This change aims to provide greater visibility into the financial dealings of elected officials.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance Rate Decrease
Florida businesses will benefit from an overall 15.1 percent decrease in workers’ compensation insurance rates. It is important to note that individual businesses may experience varying rate changes. This reduction in rates aims to alleviate the financial burden on businesses while still providing comprehensive coverage for workers.
Back-to-School Tax “Holiday”
Starting from Monday and lasting until January 14th, a back-to-school tax “holiday” will be implemented. This means that shoppers will be able to avoid paying sales taxes on certain items.
Specifically, clothes that cost $100 or less, school supplies that cost $50 or less, learning aids that cost $30 or less, and personal computers that cost $1,500 or less will be exempt from sales tax. This tax holiday is designed to make back-to-school shopping more affordable for families.
Advanced Reservations for State Park Campsites and Cabins
Floridians will have the advantage of being able to reserve campsites and cabins at state parks 11 months in advance.
This extended reservation period will allow residents to plan their outdoor adventures well ahead of time. Non-Floridians, on the other hand, will only be able to make reservations 10 months in advance. This change aims to give Floridians priority access to the state’s natural treasures.
Lactation Spaces in County Courthouses
In an effort to support nursing mothers, county courthouses in Florida will be required to provide lactation spaces.
This change recognizes the importance of accommodating the needs of breastfeeding mothers and ensuring they have appropriate facilities available. However, it is important to note that there may be some exceptions to this requirement.
Expanding Coverage in the KidCare Health-Insurance Program
The KidCare subsidized health insurance program in Florida will see an expansion in eligibility for coverage.
As part of this expansion, the Florida Healthy Kids Corp. will establish premium tiers based on household incomes. This change aims to make healthcare coverage more accessible to a wider range of families, ensuring that children have access to the care they need.
These are just some of the new laws or changes in effect in Florida in 2024. It is important for residents to familiarize themselves with these changes to ensure compliance and take advantage of any benefits they may provide.
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