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January 18, 2024The Senate passed a package of bills (SB 7016 and SB 7018) collectively known as "Live Healthy,” a priority for Senate President Kathleen Passidomo. Florida faces a growing and aging population, and the current health care system does not have adequate resources to meet these needs. As such, Live Healthy seeks to close these gaps in care by expanding access to preventive services, primary care, and mental health care services, recruiting and retaining a highly skilled health care workforce, reducing reliance on expensive, ineffective emergency rooms, and incentivizing innovation. Importantly, the legislation also increases funding for health care services for the poor and individuals living with disabilities. To achieve all these goals, Live Healthy spends approximately $800 million annually. The bishops of Florida have long advocated for affordable and accessible health care for all, particularly the poor and marginalized members of our society, and support this legislation. The Senate unanimously passed SB 7016 and SB 7018 on Thursday, January 18 and will send the bills to the House. Similar House bills are HB 1501 and HB 1549.
