Florida Updates Filing Deadlines Under the Florida Civil Rights Act 

Florida employers should be aware of recent changes to the enforcement procedures under the Florida Civil Rights Act (FCRA), the state's primary employment discrimination law. The FCRA prohibits discrimination in employment based on protected characteristics including race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, and marital status. 

Under legislation known as HB 1407, Florida has revised the timeline for individuals pursuing employment discrimination claims after receiving authorization to file a lawsuit.  The new law will take effect on July 1, 2026. 

Previously, employees who received a determination from the Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR) or a Notice of Right to Sue from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) had a longer period to initiate a civil action. The new law establishes a more defined filing deadline. Going forward, a claim under the FCRA must be filed within one year of either: 

• The date the FCHR issues a determination of reasonable cause; or 

  
  

• The date the EEOC issues a Notice of Right to Sue (whichever occurs first). 

  
  

While this change primarily affects claimants and their legal representatives, employers should recognize that discrimination complaints may move through the administrative process and into litigation more quickly. As a result, organizations should remain diligent in documenting employment decisions, maintaining personnel records, and responding promptly to employee concerns involving discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. 

Employers are encouraged to review their equal employment opportunity policies, complaint reporting procedures, manager training programs, and record retention practices to ensure they support compliance with federal and state anti-discrimination laws. Thorough documentation and timely investigations remain critical components of a strong workplace compliance program. 

C2 Essentials assists employers with workplace investigations, anti-harassment and anti-discrimination policy reviews, supervisor training, and HR compliance guidance. Clients with employees in Florida who have questions regarding the Florida Civil Rights Act or employment discrimination compliance should contact their HR team for assistance.