TALLAHASSEE, FL (352today.com) – On Jan. 1, 2025, 12 new laws passed by Florida lawmakers and Governor Ron DeSantis in 2024 will officially take effect.

These laws cover a range of topics, from social media restrictions for children to enhanced protections for first responders and vulnerable adults.

Here’s a breakdown of what’s changing:

Key Highlights of the New Laws
Social Media Restrictions for Children (HB 3)

Children under 14 are banned from creating social media accounts. Teens aged 14-15 can create accounts with parental consent. The law aims to reduce exposure to addictive social media features.

Voter Registration Safeguards (HB 135)

This law ensures that voters can only change their party affiliation with written consent, addressing past glitches in the state’s driver’s license renewal process.

Updated Building Regulations (HB 267)

Local governments now have stricter timelines to approve or deny permit applications. Other changes include new licensure pathways for residential building inspectors and exemptions for sealed drawings for specific home improvements.

Modernized Trust Laws (HB 1093)

The Florida Uniform Fiduciary Income and Principal Act (FUFIPA) modernizes the handling of trust and estate finances, replacing older regulations to allow for better estate planning.

Protections for First Responders (SB 184)

Threatening or interfering with first responders is now classified as a first-degree misdemeanor.

Enhanced Financial Exploitation Protections (SB 556)

Banks can delay suspicious transactions involving adults aged 65+ or vulnerable adults if financial exploitation is suspected. Specific procedures and timelines ensure prompt reviews and notifications.

Dental Insurance Changes (SB 892)

This law prohibits health insurers from imposing certain payment restrictions on dentists and ensures claims for pre-approved procedures cannot be denied.

Other Notable Laws
  • Amendment 5 (HB 7017 & HB 7019): Property tax changes for homeowners with a homestead exemption to lower annual tax increases.
  • Medical Treatment Reimbursements (SB 362): Increased reimbursement rates under Florida’s Workers Compensation Law.
  • Private Activity Bonds (SB 7054): Streamlined processes for issuing bonds to fund public-interest projects.