TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Starting January 1, Florida will implement two new laws designed to enhance pet protection and provide pet owners with greater clarity.

The first of these, House Bill 655, focuses on pet insurance. It mandates that insurers offer more transparent details about policy coverage and the process for filing claims. This initiative aims to resolve long-standing confusion faced by dog owners when dealing with insurance options.

“No matter your background, insurance can be beneficial, but it involves money, whether it’s for your home, vehicle, or pets,” remarked Jeff Carrillo, a dog owner. “So, having more clarity is definitely welcome.”

Carrillo also emphasized that pet insurance is more than just a convenience.

“You have to consider the balance between the costs of insurance and the expected expenses over your pet’s lifetime,” he explained.

The second legislative measure, House Bill 255, also known as “Dexter’s Law,” aims to safeguard shelter dogs. It requires the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to establish a statewide database that tracks animal cruelty convictions. This database will assist shelters and potential adopters in avoiding the placement of pets with individuals who have a history of such offenses.

The law follows a 2024 case in which a man adopted a dog named Dexter from the Pinellas County Animal Shelter and later killed it, prompting lawmakers to take action.

“I always go on the side of the dogs, you know? There’s so many people even still here that will be bad to their dogs in front of us, and I see that a lot,” said Michael Pieczynski, a local dog advocate.

When asked if the law will benefit shelters during the adoption process, he said, “I agree. Yeah, I think so.”

Pet owners also expressed support for the new protections.

“I think it’s a good thing because I think a dog that you have is part of the family. That’s how we feel about our baby. It’s a fur baby. So, you know, we love them and we’ll do everything to make them feel comfortable and to be part of the family,” said Doris Beulabero.

Besides the new pet insurance and safety laws, Florida will implement other laws starting in the new year.