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SB 78

Relief of the Estate of Mark LaGatta by the Department of Transportation

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Stan McClain

Florida bill seeks state compensation for Mark LaGatta's estate through DOT; died in committee without explanation of underlying claim or damages.

Died in Special Master on Claim Bills
#(claimsbills)
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Bill Summary · SB 78

Legislative bill overview

SB 78 is a claim bill that seeks financial relief for the estate of Mark LaGatta through the Florida Department of Transportation. The bill was introduced in December 2024 and referred to multiple committees for consideration, but died in the Special Master on Claim Bills in June 2025 without advancing.

Why is this important

Claim bills are special legislation that authorize state payments to private individuals or entities for losses allegedly caused by state actions or negligence. If passed, this bill would have required taxpayer funds to be appropriated to LaGatta's estate, establishing a precedent for similar claims and affecting how the state addresses potential tort liability.

Potential points of contention

  • Lack of transparency: The bill's summary doesn't specify what harm LaGatta's estate allegedly suffered or what DOT action caused it, making public evaluation difficult
  • Claim bill precedent: Florida receives numerous claim bills annually; passing one could encourage similar requests and create pressure for additional taxpayer-funded settlements
  • Alternative remedies: Claimants typically have access to tort litigation and insurance claims; special legislation may bypass standard legal accountability mechanisms

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

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