December 8, 2009

“Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) and our business members applaud Sen. Bennett and Rep. Proctor for their perseverance and strong leadership in guaranteeing all Floridians the right to pick insurance coverage from any company of their choice. AIF is fully supportive of this renewed attempt to pass, and enact into law, the Consumer Choice Act which was backed overwhelmingly by lawmakers during the last legislative session.

The people of Florida should be allowed to decide for themselves if they want to have their home protected by a private insurer that they know and trust. They don’t need the protection of big brother to make that decision for them. Americans are extremely cost conscious and if a consumer believes their insurance policy rates are too high they will shop around for another policy or seek coverage from Citizens. This is the people’s insurance bill – it is about providing Florida’s consumers with a choice.

The 2010 Consumer Choice Act successfully addresses past concerns and allows all private homeowners’ insurers to offer a policy at a rate the provider believes will adequately protect the consumer. We are hopeful that this change will allow for the passage and enactment of this bill when it is re-filed for the upcoming general legislative session. The need to stabilize Florida’s insurance market is dire and the 2010 Consumer Choice Act will ultimately reduce Floridians exposure through Citizens and the Cat Fund while bringing the private insurance market back to our state. AIF is asking Florida’s elected leaders to give consumers a real choice for their property insurance needs and once again support the Consumer Choice Act.”