Staff Reports
AARP Florida is celebrating several legislative victories as lawmakers close out the scheduled 60-day Session to focus on the state budget.
“We hear from our members about the daily challenges older Floridians face,” said AARP Florida State Director Jeff Johnson.
“This year, we focused on four main areas: expanding the rights of long-term care residents, increasing consumer protections, creating more accessible housing options and fighting for fair and equitable consumer utilities. AARP Florida will continue to advocate for enhancing the lives of all Floridians at the local, state and federal levels.”
AARP singled out three bills as “Key Legislative Victories.” At the top of the list was HB 6017, which would repeal an only-in-Florida law that today bars adult children over 25 and their parents from suing for pain and suffering due to a wrongful death caused by medical malpractice. Lawmakers approved a repeal of the so-called “free kill” law late Thursday. It now heads to the Governor.
The group also claimed a win on SB 1730, a legislative package updating and enhancing the existing Live Local Act, as well as SB 180, which would boost hurricane relief and recovery capabilities and enhance storm response.
The AARP Florida team shared credit with “dozens of advocates from across the state” who helped push the organization’s policy priorities by testifying in committee or contacting their lawmakers.
“We applaud Florida lawmakers for passing and introducing a series of bills that will significantly improve the life of older adults and set the stage for continued progress in our focus areas,” said AARP Florida Director of Advocacy Zayne Smith. “These legislative wins are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our volunteers and advocates who tirelessly champion the needs of older Floridians.”
