SB 720 – Asbestos and Silica Claims

On Monday, February 5, SB 720 by Senator Travis Hutson (R-Palm Coast) was heard by the Senate Judiciary Committee and was reported favorably with 8 yeas and 1 nay. AIF stood in support of this legislation.

SB 720 modifies the current list of procedures for a plaintiff to follow when filing a lawsuit regarding asbestos exposure. Currently, a written report must be submitted that includes personal information, asbestos exposure locations, an exposed persons employer at the time of the supposed exposure, any asbestos-related conditions associated with the exposure, any documentation that can support the claim, etc.

SB 720 would require the plaintiff to include information about their smoking history, names and details of anyone who is knowledgeable of the plaintiff’s exposure to asbestos, the specific product (type) of asbestos that the plaintiff was exposed to and the location.

SB 720 will now go to the Senate Commerce & Tourism Committee for consideration.

AIF supports legislative initiatives that reinforce the system of checks and balances in our courts. Access to critical evidence and information is important, especially when the outcome of the case can be determined by the medical history of the plaintiff.

SB 1706 – Condominiums Within a Portion of a Building or Within a Multiple Parcel Building

On Monday, February 5, SB 1706 by Senator Clay Yarborough (R-Jacksonville) was heard by the Senate Regulated Industries Committee and was reported favorably with 7 yeas and 0 nays. AIF stood in support of this legislation.

SB 1706 reworks several provisions that deal with condominiums in buildings with multiple parcels. The bill would set new disclosure requirements for the creation of condominium space in buildings with multiple units. These requirements require a building association to be notified of what section of the building is going to be new condominium space and who is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep for “shared facilities” in the building. This allows for clearly defined roles and allows for consistency in how shared spaces between businesses and condominium owners operates.

SB 1706 will now go to the Senate Rules Committee for consideration.

AIF supports legislation that provides clarity and consistency in the relationship between businesses and owners of condominiums.