Assignment of Benefits Bill Postponed; Insurers Group Urges Action

The Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday postponed a vote on a measure that would regulate homeowners’ ability to sign over their right to collect insurance benefits to third parties. Logan McFaddin, state government relations manager for the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America (PCI), issued this statement: “Assignment of Benefits (AOB) abuse is a critical…

Hidden Camera Investigation Reveals the High Cost of ‘Free’ Roof Offers

ORLANDO,Fla. — Action 9 exposed some bogus offers to replace home roofs for free. In a hidden camera investigation, Action 9’s Todd Ulrich found out how the offers drive up the cost of insurance. The fliers left on front doors may claim a roof is damaged, and can be replaced for free. Several homeowners contacted…

Bryan Nelson for Insurance Commissioner? Not so fast

As reported by FloridaPolitics.com earlier this week, the pool of applicants to replace outgoing Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty is so far anything but impressive. The applicant list stands at 32 interested parties, yet only three appear to be eligible based on the state’s pre-screening questions. On Tuesday, we learned that former Rep. Tom Grady would not be applying…

Officials Gather Over Flood Insurance

Monroe County Mayor Heather Carruthers was among a group of elected officials and insurance advocates who gathered Friday in Tallahassee to begin to formulate a statewide campaign to battle rising flood insurance rates. Carruthers is the co-chair of the Florida Association of Counties Federal Committee, which reviews federal legislation for impacts on Florida counties. The…

Lawmakers: Regulation Will Ensure Umpires Make The Right Call—On Insurance Appraisals

Lawmakers are looking into new rules for umpires. No, not that kind—property insurance appraisal umpires. If you’re wondering what in the world a property insurance appraisal umpire could be. Don’t worry. You’re not the only one who’s confused. Lawmakers in the Senate Regulated Industries Committee spent more than an hour questioning the Rep. Frank Artiles…