FL S0324

Authorizes Miami-Dade County to appropriate and pay $1.15 million to James D. Feurtado, III as compensation for serious injuries sustained in a February 12, 2009 bus accident caused by county employee negligence.

Feurtado, age 37 at time of accident, suffered permanent neurological and orthopedic injuries including brain damage, unilateral deafness, and other complications requiring multiple surgeries.

Combined with the $100,000 already paid under state liability limits, the total settlement reaches $1.25 million as agreed through mediation.

Limits attorney's fees, lobbying fees, costs, and similar expenses to a maximum of 25 percent of the $1.15 million award.

Takes effect upon becoming law and establishes this as sole compensation for all present and future claims arising from the incident.