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SB 1700

Recovery of Damages for Medical Negligence Resulting in Death

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mack Bernard and 7 co-sponsors

SB 1700 expands damages recoverable in Florida medical malpractice wrongful death cases, potentially increasing healthcare liability costs and compensation for deceased patients' families.

Died in Judiciary
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Bill Summary · SB 1700

Legislative bill overview

SB 1700 modifies Florida law regarding damages recoverable in medical malpractice wrongful death cases. The bill appears to expand or clarify what compensation families can recover when a patient dies due to medical negligence, moving beyond current statutory limitations on non-economic damages.

Why is this important

Medical malpractice wrongful death cases directly affect grieving families' ability to obtain financial compensation for their loss. This bill could significantly impact healthcare costs, insurance premiums, and the incentive structures for medical providers to maintain safety standards—with ripple effects across Florida's healthcare system and litigation landscape.

Potential points of contention

  • Cap modifications: Changes to damage caps may increase liability exposure for healthcare providers and insurers, potentially raising malpractice insurance costs that could be passed to patients
  • Deterrence vs. compensation balance: Expanding damages creates stronger incentives for medical safety but may also increase frivolous claims or settlement pressures unrelated to actual negligence
  • Access to care concerns: Medical providers and industry groups typically argue higher liability costs discourage physicians from practicing in the state, while patient advocates counter that robust compensation deters negligence

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

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