FL S0040

Appropriates $650,000 from the General Revenue Fund to the Department of Health for compensation to Yvonne Morton for injuries sustained in a January 2, 2007 automobile accident caused by a Department of Health employee's negligence.

Victim was an 85-year-old woman who suffered multiple fractured ribs, scalp hematoma, central cord syndrome, and underwent cervical spine surgery; her total medical expenses through July 2009 amounted to approximately $570,000.

Authorizes the Chief Financial Officer to draw and pay a warrant to Yvonne Morton in the amount of $650,000 from State Treasury funds.

Limits attorney fees, lobbying fees, and related costs to 15 percent of the $650,000 award, or up to 25 percent if the claimant executes a written waiver.

Provides that combined payments from the Department of Health's statutory liability limit ($100,000 under s. 768.28, Florida Statutes) and this appropriation constitute sole compensation for all present and future claims arising from the accident.