Question: When did Florida first pass the workers’ compensation law?

Florida moved slower than other states in enacting a workers’ compensation law primarily because Florida had a smaller work force, virtually no manufacturing, and no major problems until the “Great Depression” of the 1930’s. During the depression, Florida started an aggressive campaign to attract business to the warmer, more economical climate. A “workmen’s” compensation law was necessary to meet the demands of the increased employment in the state and also helped to attract other businesses to move their operations to Florida. Prospective employers knew that they would be open to lawsuits from workers injured on the job and desired the “great trade-off” available with workers’ compensation insurance. Lawsuits were also on the rise and workers demanded protection. Governor David Sholtz recognized the necessity for this legislation and this new law was signed May 23,1935 as House Bill 29. Click here for more information on the history of workers’ compensation insurance in Florida.

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