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HB 6003

Recovery of Damages for Medical Negligence Resulting in Death

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Fentrice Driskell and 8 co-sponsors

HB 6003 allows adult children and parents of deceased adults to recover noneconomic damages in medical negligence cases, enhancing financial recourse for survivors.

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Bill Summary · HB 6003

Summary of HB 6003: Recovery of Damages for Medical Negligence Resulting in Death

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: HB 6003
- Title: Recovery of Damages for Medical Negligence Resulting in Death
- Status: Released to House Calendar
- Introduced: September 24, 2025
- Effective Date: July 1, 2026
- Sponsors: Trabulsy, López, J. (with cosponsor Eskamani)
- Committee References: Civil Justice & Claims, Judiciary

Purpose and Intent

HB 6003 aims to amend Florida's Wrongful Death Act by expanding the scope of damages available to certain individuals in cases of medical negligence resulting in death. The bill specifically seeks to remove existing prohibitions that prevent adult children (aged 25 and older) and parents of deceased adult children (aged 25 and older) from recovering noneconomic damages.

Key Provisions

  • Amendment of Damages Recovery:

    • The bill removes the prohibition on recovery of noneconomic damages for:
    • Decedent’s Children (25 years or older): May recover for loss of parental companionship, instruction, guidance, and mental pain and suffering if there is no surviving spouse.
    • Parents of Deceased Children (25 years or older): May recover for mental pain and suffering if there are no other survivors.

  • Conforming Changes: The bill includes amendments to related statutes (sections 400.023, 400.0235, and 429.295) to align with the changes made to the Wrongful Death Act.

Impact

  • Affected Parties:

    • Beneficiaries: Adult children and parents of deceased children who were previously barred from claiming noneconomic damages in medical negligence cases.
    • Healthcare Providers: May face an increased number of medical malpractice lawsuits and higher liability due to the expanded scope of recoverable damages.

  • Fiscal Implications:

    • State and Local Governments: Potential for indeterminate negative fiscal impacts due to an increase in medical malpractice lawsuits.
    • Private Sector: Healthcare providers may experience increased liability, while beneficiaries may see a positive economic impact through the ability to recover additional damages.

Procedural Timeline

  • Legislative Actions:
    • November 19, 2025: Favorable report by Judiciary Committee; released to House Calendar.
    • October 15, 2025: Favorable report by Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee.
    • October 1, 2025: Referred to Civil Justice & Claims and Judiciary Committees.
    • September 24, 2025: Bill filed.

Conclusion

HB 6003 represents a significant shift in Florida's approach to wrongful death claims related to medical negligence, potentially providing greater financial recourse for certain survivors while also raising concerns about the implications for healthcare providers and the legal system. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, pending further legislative action.

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

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