A Port St Lucie family is hopeful the controversial “Free Kill” law will soon be repealed, following the Florida Senate‘s recent 33-4 vote in favor of House Bill 6017. The bill, now awaiting Governor Ron DeSantis‘ signature, aims to overturn Florida’s Wrongful Death Act, a statute that has stood for 35 years.

Port St Lucie Family Advocates for ‘Free Kill’ Law Repeal

Stacey Waner of Port St Lucie has been advocating for the repeal since the tragic death of her brother, Trevor Snyder, in 2019. Snyder, who was 32 at the time, was admitted to the hospital with a broken leg after a motorcycle accident and unexpectedly passed away days later. Waner believes medical negligence contributed directly to her brother’s death.

“Had the hospital done its job, he would be here,” Waner said. “He was an otherwise healthy kid, and he shouldn’t have died from a broken leg. There’s no reason for it.”

Understanding Florida’s ‘Free Kill’ Law

The current Florida Wrongful Death Act, often referred to as the “Free Kill” law, prevents family members from suing medical providers for malpractice if the deceased individual was over the age of 25, unmarried, and without children. Critics of the law argue it unfairly restricts families from seeking justice and accountability.

“Our family was not able to file any sort of claim with the courts because of the, I call it a loophole, in the Wrongful Death law,” Waner explained.

Impact of House Bill 6017 on Port St Lucie Families

If signed into law, House Bill 6017 would eliminate these restrictions, allowing families like Waner’s to pursue legal action against healthcare providers in cases of suspected medical malpractice. Advocates believe this change will lead to greater accountability and improved patient safety across Florida.

Waner sees the repeal as a step toward justice for her brother and others in similar situations. “I promised him when I saw him last time at the funeral that I would fight for justice and I would not stop until I got justice for him,” Waner said.

Next Steps for the ‘Free Kill’ Law Repeal

Governor Ron DeSantis now holds the final decision on House Bill 6017. If approved, the repeal would mark a significant shift in Florida’s medical malpractice laws, directly impacting families throughout Port St Lucie and the Treasure Coast.

Local families and advocacy groups are closely watching the governor’s decision, hopeful for a positive outcome that will enable greater legal recourse in cases of medical negligence. Recent events like the tragic incident involving a toddler’s fatal shooting in Port St Lucie have further highlighted the importance of accountability and justice for local families.

Frequently Asked Questions About Port St Lucie ‘Free Kill’ Law

What is Florida’s ‘Free Kill’ law?

Florida’s “Free Kill” law is a part of the state’s Wrongful Death Act that prevents families from suing medical providers for malpractice if the victim was over 25, unmarried, and had no children.

How much support does the repeal of the ‘Free Kill’ law have?

The repeal has strong support, evidenced by the Florida Senate’s recent 33-4 vote in favor of House Bill 6017, which aims to eliminate the law.

Are there other families in Port St Lucie affected by the ‘Free Kill’ law?

Yes, multiple families in Port St Lucie and across Florida have been impacted, unable to seek justice due to the current limitations of the law. Incidents such as the recent toddler’s fatal shooting leading to arrests in Port St Lucie underscore the broader need for accountability.

Can you sue for medical malpractice in Florida if the ‘Free Kill’ law is repealed?

If repealed, the restrictions will be removed, allowing families of unmarried adults without children to sue healthcare providers for medical malpractice.

Where are Port St Lucie families advocating for the repeal?

Families in Port St Lucie have been advocating at local events, through media coverage, and by directly contacting legislators to support the repeal of the law. Community awareness has increased due to incidents such as the accidental shooting of a toddler in Port St Lucie, further emphasizing the need for justice and reform.

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