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SB 24

Ad Valorem Taxation of Property; extension of preferential assessment periods for certain historic properties; provide

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by John Albers and 18 co-sponsors

SB 24 authorizes Miami-Dade County to pay $500,000 to Lourdes and Edward Latour for injuries from a negligent incident, ensuring financial relief after a jury verdict.

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Bill Summary · SB 24

Summary of SB 24: Relief of Lourdes Latour and Edward Latour by Miami-Dade County

Purpose and Intent

SB 24 is a legislative bill aimed at providing financial relief to Lourdes Latour and Edward Latour for injuries sustained due to the negligence of Miami-Dade County. The bill seeks to authorize a specific appropriation to compensate the Latours following a jury verdict that found the county fully liable for the incident.

Key Provisions

  • Compensation Amount: The bill authorizes Miami-Dade County to pay a total of $500,000 to Lourdes and Edward Latour as part of a settlement agreement.
  • Background of Incident: On November 5, 2017, Lourdes Latour was injured when a malfunctioning automatic gate arm struck her while she was riding her bicycle. The incident resulted in permanent injuries.
  • Legal Proceedings: The Latours filed a lawsuit on November 21, 2018, which culminated in a jury verdict on January 16, 2025, finding Miami-Dade County 100% liable. The jury awarded Lourdes Latour $4.75 million for her injuries and Edward Latour $165,000 for loss of consortium.
  • Settlement Agreement: Following the verdict, the Latours and Miami-Dade County reached a settlement of $800,000, with Miami-Dade agreeing to pay $300,000 directly and supporting the additional $500,000 to be authorized by the Florida Legislature through this claim bill.
  • Attorney Fees: The total amount paid for attorney fees related to this claim may not exceed 25% of the total amount awarded under this act.

Affected Parties

  • Lourdes Latour: The primary claimant who sustained serious injuries and has experienced significant pain, suffering, and loss of quality of life.
  • Edward Latour: The secondary claimant who has suffered loss of companionship and support due to his wife's injuries.
  • Miami-Dade County: The entity found liable for the incident, which will be responsible for the financial compensation.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: The bill was filed on August 1, 2025.
  • Current Status: As of October 6, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Special Master on Claim Bills, Judiciary, Community Affairs, and Rules committees for further consideration.
  • Effective Date: The act will take effect upon becoming law.

Conclusion

SB 24 seeks to provide necessary financial compensation to Lourdes and Edward Latour for the injuries and losses they have suffered due to a negligent act by Miami-Dade County. The bill highlights the legal process following the incident and the agreed-upon settlement that requires legislative approval for full compensation.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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