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Get the latest coverage of the 2025 Florida legislative session in Tallahassee from our coverage partners and WUSF.

DeSantis signs into law a bill that sets regulations for pet insurance

A veterinarian and vet places a 3-year-old pit bull with a broken toe on an X-ray table.
Richard Vogel
/
AP, file
A veterinarian and vet places a 3-year-old pit bull with a broken toe on an X-ray table. A House staff analysis said four carriers offer pet insurance policies in Florida, covering such things as illnesses and orthopedic conditions.

The measure includes issues that are similar to those in human health care. For example, insurers will be required to disclose whether policies exclude coverage for such things as chronic and preexisting conditions.

Gov. Ron DeSantis on Friday signed into law a measure that sets regulations for pet insurance that people can buy for veterinary care.

The House and Senate this month unanimously approved the pet insurance bill (HB 655), which includes regulation of issues that are similar to issues that arise in human health care.

For example, the bill will require pet insurers to disclose whether policies exclude coverage for such things as chronic conditions and preexisting conditions.

As another example, it will require insurers to provide information about claim payments and benefit schedules.

A House staff analysis said four carriers offer pet insurance policies in Florida, covering such things as illnesses and orthopedic conditions.

“As companion animals live longer, veterinary care costs are rising, prompting more pet owners to consider insurance for managing expenses related to preventive care, illnesses, and emergencies,” the staff analysis said.

The bill will take effect Jan. 1.

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