Bill
HB 259
HB 259 allows chiropractic physicians in Florida to hold unlimited patient funds in trust, enhancing flexibility while ensuring funds are used solely for intended purposes.
Bill Number: HB 259
Title: Patient Funds Held in Trust by Chiropractic Physicians
Introduced: December 13, 2024
Current Status: Now in Health Professions & Programs Subcommittee
Effective Date: July 1, 2026
HB 259 aims to amend existing regulations regarding the handling of patient funds by chiropractic physicians in Florida. The primary intent of the bill is to remove the current limitations on the amount of patient funds that can be held in trust for specific purposes, thereby providing chiropractic physicians with greater flexibility in managing these funds.
Amendment to Section 460.413, Florida Statutes: The bill proposes to delete the existing cap on the amount of patient funds that a chiropractic physician may hold in trust for specified purposes. Previously, the limit was set at $1,500 for advances related to costs and expenses of examination or treatment.
Trust Fund Management: Chiropractic physicians will still be required to hold patient funds in trust and apply them solely for the intended purpose. The bill emphasizes the importance of preserving the identity of patient funds and property.
Accountability Measures: The bill maintains that all funds received from patients, except for advances, must be deposited into identifiable bank accounts. It also mandates that chiropractic physicians keep complete records of all patient funds and promptly return any funds or property to patients upon request.
Dispute Resolution: The bill clarifies that funds belonging to both the patient and the physician must be managed carefully, with provisions for handling disputes over fees.
Chiropractic Physicians: The removal of the cap on trust funds allows chiropractic physicians to manage larger amounts of patient funds without the previous restrictions, potentially improving their operational flexibility.
Patients: Patients will continue to have their funds protected under the trust provisions, ensuring that their money is used only for the intended purposes. The bill reinforces the accountability of chiropractic physicians in managing these funds.
This summary provides an overview of HB 259, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on chiropractic practice and patient care in Florida.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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