Florida lawmakers are once again debating a controversial issue that has long impacted families seeking justice for loved ones lost to medical negligence. As this legislation gains renewed attention, it has significant implications for those who rely on the state’s healthcare system — including veterans seeking accountability through our Florida medical malpractice VA disability lawyer team.
A Florida House subcommittee recently voted to advance a bill (HB 6003) that would repeal what many have called Florida’s “free kill law.” Under the current statute, if an adult over the age of 25 dies from medical negligence and has no spouse or minor children, their surviving parents cannot pursue non-economic damages — such as pain and suffering — against the responsible healthcare providers. Florida is the only state in the nation with this kind of restriction.
The proposal, sponsored by Rep. Dana Trabulsy (R–Fort Pierce), seeks to correct what she and many others consider a moral injustice. “How is it just for a family to recover non-economic damages when their loved one dies in a car accident, but not for death due to medical malpractice?” she asked during the committee hearing. For parents like Cindy Jenkins, who lost her 25-year-old daughter under such circumstances, the law represents a painful gap in accountability.
Despite widespread public support, the measure faces resistance. Governor Ron DeSantis vetoed a similar repeal last year, warning that the change could increase healthcare costs, expose doctors to “unpredictable liability,” and drive physicians out of the state. Critics also claim the legislation could invite abuse from “predatory attorneys.” Still, advocates argue that the law denies justice to grieving families and protects negligent providers from consequences. The bill’s progress through committee shows a continued push for reform, but whether it will survive another veto remains to be seen when the next legislative session begins in January.
Legal Support For Veterans Facing Medical Negligence
This ongoing debate highlights the importance of strong legal representation when medical errors occur — especially for veterans who receive care through the VA system. At Glover Luck LLP, our Florida medical malpractice VA disability attorneys are dedicated to helping veterans and their families seek justice when substandard medical treatment results in harm or loss.
Medical malpractice can happen in any healthcare setting, including VA hospitals. When veterans suffer because of preventable mistakes, they may have the right to pursue compensation under the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA). Working with our VA hospital negligence lawyers, veterans can investigate whether their care providers failed to meet accepted standards of care. These cases often involve issues like misdiagnosis, surgical errors, or failure to treat a medical condition properly.
In some situations, veterans must also open VA disability claims related to the injury or death caused by malpractice. Our veterans medical error attorneys help clients understand how negligence can impact their benefits and guide them through both VA claims and federal litigation processes. For many families, these claims are not only about financial relief — they are about accountability.
Our team also includes veterans healthcare negligence attorneys who understand the unique challenges veterans face within the VA system, from delayed diagnoses to improper treatment. When necessary, our federal tort claims act lawyers work to hold the government accountable for negligence under the FTCA — a process that requires extensive legal experience and familiarity with veterans’ rights.
At Glover Luck LLP, we exclusively help veterans in need, and we are committed to standing beside veterans and their loved ones as they pursue fair outcomes after medical negligence. If you or someone you love was harmed while receiving care through the VA or another medical provider, contact our Florida medical malpractice VA disability lawyers today. With 24/7 availability and free consultations, we’re here to help you understand your rights and explore your options for compensation. Don’t let medical malpractice slide — reach out today to take the next step toward justice.
