State regulations and other modifications that will take effect in the new year include strengthened lobbying limitations and exemptions for drivers who frequently use toll highways.
The legislation, which were passed during this year’s normal legislative session and special sessions, also allow local governments to post legal notices online rather than in newspapers and put an end to a long-contentious property insurance system practice.
The majority of the laws that Governor Ron DeSantis approved this year went into effect on July 1 or as soon as he signed them. But note these modifications:
Bringing an end to benefit assignments for property insurance.
The governor enacted a bigger property insurance measure in December, which includes this provision. The practice known as “assignment of benefits” will end on January 1. Homeowners sign claims to contractors, who then pursue reimbursement from insurance companies.
Expansion of homeowner catastrophe assistance
During the December special session on property insurance, this also became a law. Homeowners whose residences were left uninhabitable by Hurricanes Ian and Nicole can now access property tax rates.
County websites that post public announcements
Due to this regulation, local governments are no longer required to publish legal notices in print publications or online versions of newspapers. Governmental organizations may instead post them on the county website.
Limits on public officials’ ability to lobby.
This law increases the two-year waiting period for lobbying after leaving office to six years, and it forbids some public officials from working as lobbyists. People including legislators, agency directors, judges, and municipal officials will be subject to the law.
Rates for workers’ compensation
Workers’ compensation insurance prices will reduce on average by 8.4% starting in January, which will be the sixth year in a row that rates have decreased on average.
The legislation approved during the December special session of the legislature, which was centered on property insurance, toll relief, and Hurricane catastrophe recovery, will also take effect in January.
Sources:
https://www.fox35orlando.com/news/new-florida-laws-to-take-effect-january-2023