A new Florida law affecting dog owners across the state takes effect on January 1, introducing major changes to pet insurance and animal welfare regulations.
HB 655 establishes statewide rules for pet insurance, officially recognizing coverage for pet accidents, illnesses, and diseases under state law. Pet insurance will now be classified as “property insurance,” requiring companies to use standardized definitions and disclosures to enhance consumer protections.
Until now, Florida had no regulatory framework for pet insurance. The bill also targets misleading wellness programs that falsely claimed to be insurance. HB 655 prohibits insurance agents from promoting such programs as insurance or making them a requirement for coverage.
Pet insurers must provide clear information to policyholders, including whether policies exclude coverage due to chronic conditions, hereditary disorders, or preexisting conditions. Insurers are responsible for notifying policyholders in writing if a condition is excluded and must demonstrate whether an exclusion applies to a specific claim.
A state senate assessment of the bill noted that it would “provide consumers with greater information to use in comparing the costs of premiums and benefits of various pet insurance policies, which may reduce out-of-pocket costs.”
Another pet-related law taking effect in January is HB 255, known as Dexter’s Law. Named after a mutilated dog found in Fort DeSoto State Park, the legislation increases penalties for aggravated animal cruelty. While enhanced penalties went into effect in July, the law also requires the launch of a public registry on January 1 listing individuals convicted of or who pled guilty to animal cruelty offenses.
Animal shelters and adoption agencies will be able to use the registry to vet potential adopters, helping ensure pets are placed in safe and responsible homes.
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