Today, Governor Ron DeSantis vetoed HB 6017, a widely supported, bipartisan bill that would have ended one of the most unjust provisions in Florida’s medical malpractice laws—known as the “Free Kill” law. This decision halts progress for thousands of Floridians seeking accountability and justice after the wrongful death of loved ones due to medical negligence.
What Is the “Free Kill” Law?
Under current Florida law, if an adult dies due to medical malpractice and has no spouse and no children under the age of 25, their family cannot sue for wrongful death. That means grieving parents, adult siblings, or other close relatives have no legal remedy—no matter how reckless the conduct or how clear the negligence.
It’s been called a “Free Kill” because hospitals and doctors can avoid all civil accountability in such cases. As personal injury attorneys, we see these heartbreaking scenarios far too often—families stunned that such a law even exists.
A Major Bipartisan Effort to Repeal It
For years, victims’ families and advocacy groups like the Florida Justice Association have fought to eliminate this cruel carve-out. 2025 finally saw legislative momentum: HB 6017 passed with resounding bipartisan support.
- Florida House: 104–6
- Florida Senate: 33–4
These vote totals weren’t close. They sent a clear message: Floridians want this law gone. Legislators from both parties stood with victims’ families and declared that all lives should be treated equally under the law—regardless of marital or parental status.
The Governor’s Veto: Politics Over People?
Despite this overwhelming support, Governor DeSantis vetoed HB 6017 today, denying families justice and shielding hospitals and insurance companies from liability.
Why?
In the words of attorney Brent Bradley, who has worked closely with legislators on this issue:
“The only possible motivation is his tie to the hospital industry and the insurance industry, and the fact that their powerful lobby controls him.”
Governor DeSantis has not publicly explained his veto as of this writing, but many suspect this is a case of political influence trumping the will of the people—and of the legislature.
Can the Veto Be Overridden?
Yes. Florida law allows for a veto override with a two-thirds majority in both chambers. Given the vote margins on HB 6017, that’s a realistic possibility—if legislators stick to their original vote.
But it won’t happen without public pressure.
What You Can Do
- Contact your state senator. The Senate is where override support could falter. Tell your senator that justice should not depend on marital status.
- Call the Governor’s Office. Let them know you oppose this veto and support the repeal of the Free Kill law.
- Spread awareness. Share this blog post and our YouTube video below. Help educate others about this deeply unfair law that impacts Florida families every day.