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Disaster Preparedness Homeowners Insurance & Sales Tax Holidays
■ FROM THE STATEHOUSE
Disaster Preparedness, Homeowners Insurance and SALES TAX HOLIDAYS
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Over the last few months, many of my constituents have called me regarding issues with their homeowners’ insurance including their policies not being renewed and exorbitant increases in their insurance rates. In response, a Special Session was called in May to tackle the property insurance crisis. Although CS/SB 2-D is not perfect nor complete, it is legislation that is a step in the right direction. It helps stabilize the state’s insurance market by creating a “Reinsurance Assistance Program “(RAP) for insurance companies. Other reforms include: • Property insurers who utilize RAP must reduce policyholder premiums by June 30, 2022 to reflect their savings from the program • Creates the "My Safe Florida Home"; program to provide homeowners with insured home values of $500,000 or less with grant funds for home hardening improvements • Creates separate roof deductibles • Protects property owners from non- renewal based on the age of their roof
By State Representative Robin Bartleman
• Provides various changes to property insurance litigation regarding attorney fees and assignment of benefits • Holds insurance companies accountable
I supported the general bill because the status quo is unacceptable for homeowners. I look forward to coming back next Session to improve upon homeowner’s insurance reform and strike a balance between stabilizing the marketplace for carriers to be available and protecting the consumer. It is important for you to know that experts believe consumers will not see the relief for 12-18 months.
In response to the Surfside collapse, we passed SB 4-D. This legislation requires mandatory building inspections at specific intervals, and, in 2024, a structural integrity reserve study will be a requisite for condo associations at least every ten years to prevent needed reserves from being waived.
If you are having issues with your property insurance, you can contact the Florida consumer line at 1(877)693-5236. Have a safe and healthy summer!
As always, I am always here to help. Please reach out anytime at (954)668-3662 or robin.bartleman@myfloridahouse.gov.
