FL S0220

Authorizes lienholders to submit documents filed under penalty of perjury in a defendant's bankruptcy case as admissions in mortgage foreclosure actions.

Creates a rebuttable presumption that a defendant has waived foreclosure defenses when a lienholder submits bankruptcy documents showing the defendant's intention to surrender the property, the documents have not been withdrawn, and a final bankruptcy order discharging debts or confirming a repayment plan including property surrender has been entered.

Requires courts to take judicial notice of bankruptcy case orders upon request by a lienholder under Florida Statute section 90.203.

Permits defendants to raise defenses based on the lienholder's actions or inactions occurring after the bankruptcy document showing intent to surrender was filed.

Applies to foreclosure actions filed on or after October 1, 2018.