Health care liability

More than 172,000 nursing home residents died of covid. In lawsuits, some families who lost loved ones say they were misled about safety measures or told that COVID wasn’t a danger in their facilities.

Even in states where laws protect minors’ access to gender-affirming care, malpractice insurance premiums are keeping small and independent clinics from treating patients.

Lawmakers last year passed a measure to help shield hospitals, nursing homes and other providers from lawsuits related to the coronavirus. The measure was set to expire March 29.

The bill, which would extend protection for hospitals, nursing homes and other providers through June 1, 2023, now heads to Gov. Ron DeSantis for signing.

Senate President Wilton Simpson and House Speaker Chris Sprowls said the House would accept a proposal that the Senate amended and passed Thursday.

COVID liability bills aimed at protecting businesses and health care providers from lawsuits are heading to the Senate floor after being merged together in an effort to increase their chances of passing.

Republicans say it will protect Florida's economy, while Democrats claim it would provide immunity to businesses at the expense of workers and others.

Florida would join other states in providing similar protections.

The bills are aimed at protecting nursing homes, assisted living facilities and other health care providers from litigation about deaths or injuries from COVID-19.