Advocacy

Legislative Session Updates 

End of Session Overview

2026 Legislative Session - Florida Chapter, ACC

SUPPORT:

Cardiac Service Providers – SB 396/HB 349 - Revises licensure requirements for hospitals operating Level I and Level II adult cardiovascular programs while mandating adherence to updated industry standards. Failed to Pass

Payer Reform–SB 1130/HB 1015 - Included comprehensive updates to insurance reimbursement and prior authorization requirements, including restrictions on downcoding, standardized processes, expedited claims payments, and expanded enforcement mechanisms for providers. Failed to Pass; Bill Sponsor will continue to pursue similar measures in future sessions.

OPPOSE:

Medical Freedom regarding VaccinesSB 1756 - Prohibits forced vaccination, restricting manufacturer incentives, requiring new disclosures on childhood immunizations, and authorizing broader ivermectin prescribing and dispensing. – Failed to Pass – However the issue will be considered during a Special Legislative Session at the end of April

Drug Pricing and Coverages -Most Favored Nation Drug Pricing– HB 697, in its original form, would have adopted “most favored nation” drug pricing. However, due to opposition, that provision was removed. The final bill instead strengthens regulation of pharmacy benefit managers through updated definitions, contract requirements, and reimbursement restrictions, and appropriates funding while directing implementation and oversight of the Ryan White Part B AIDS Drug Assistance Program. The bill is awaiting action by the Governor.

Payer Reform– Senator Massullo, a practicing dermatologist elected in a December Special Election, previously served in the House from 2016 to 2024. Upon entering the Senate, he filed legislation related to payer reform and prior authorization. SB 1130 would have implemented payer reform measures through comprehensive updates to insurance reimbursement and prior authorization requirements, including restrictions on downcoding, standardized processes, expedited claims payments, and expanded enforcement mechanisms for providers. While this legislation did not advance during the Regular Session, it is expected that Senator Massullo will continue to pursue similar measures in future sessions.

Recovery of Damages Wrongful Death SB 1700/HB 6003 – Removes the statutory bar preventing adult children and parents of an adult child from recovering damages in medical negligence wrongful death cases. Opponents warned that repeal would raise malpractice costs and deter physicians from practicing in Florida. Failed to Pass

Scope of Practice ExpansionSB 36/HB 237 - authorizing APRNs with doctoral degrees, such as a PhD or DNP, to use “doctor” titles, while requiring them to clearly disclose their licensed profession in advertising. Failed to Pass

MONITOR:

Safety Standards Office Surgery Suites SB 1526/HB 1175 - The bill expands the number of patients, from four to six, that physicians that operate in an office surgery suite can provide simultaneous services or treatment to on an outpatient basis. This may have a positive fiscal impact on these businesses. However, the increased number of patients allowed in this setting may have a negative fiscal impact on hospitals. Passed the Legislature