Florida would pay H.H. $14.9 million for her injuries

Florida would pay $14,926,639.56 into a trust for H.H. The payment would compensate H.H. for injuries and damages attributed to the department’s negligence. The money would come from the General Revenue Fund through the Department of Children and Families. The trust could not be revoked and must serve only H.H.’s use and benefit. The act would take effect when it becomes law.

Lawmakers would express their intent that the state waive and pay government claims for repayment of H.H.’s care costs. It covers government liens, meaning claims for repayment, including Medicaid claims tied to care for the injuries described in the bill. This provision states lawmakers’ intent rather than directly ordering the state to act.

The payments would be intended as H.H.’s only compensation for related claims, and attorney fees would be capped. The intended limit covers both the department’s prior payment and this award for all present and future claims arising from the events that injured H.H. Attorney fees for this claim could not exceed 25 percent of the amount awarded under the act.