Big changes are on the horizon for Florida in 2026, from pet safety to healthcare. A new wave of laws are officially kicking off on January 1st, and since we know reading through legal talk isn’t everyone’s idea of a good time, we’ve highlighted five key ones. Here’s what’s changing and how it might affect you:
1. HB 255: Animal Cruelty Database
Named after an adopted dog in Pinellas County that was tragically killed, Dexter’s Law (HB 255) requires the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to launch a publicly searchable database of individuals convicted of animal cruelty. This will allow animal shelters, breeders and the public to vet people before allowing them to adopt or purchase pets.
2. SB 1808: 30-Day Patient Refund
If you’ve ever been overcharged by a doctor to a hospital, SB 1808 is a major win for your wallet. This law mandates that healthcare providers and facilities refund any overpayment to a patient within 30 days. If they don’t, they can face fines of up to $500 per incident.
3. HB 655: Pet Insurance
Under HB 655, pet insurance is officially classified as a form of property insurance and requires companies to clearly explain how they calculate claim payments, as well as what is excluded. You now have a set window to review a new policy and cancel it for a full refund if you change your mind.
4. SB 158: Zero-Cost Breast Cancer Screenings
The state group health insurance program is now prohibited from charging any co-pays or deductibles for diagnostic and supplemental breast exams (like MRIs and ultrasounds). For thousands of state workers and their families, this removes the financial barrier to early cancer detection.
5. SB 944: Shortened Insurance Repayment Window
This new law reduces the timeframe for health insurers or HMOs to submit overpaid claims to licensed psychologists from 30 months to 12 months, unless fraud is involved. It went into effect on July 1, but applies to claims beginning on January 1, 2026.