The bill amends Florida Statutes to establish mandatory mediation for disputed property insurance claims, making it a prerequisite before any litigation can commence. It requires all parties involved in a property insurance claim dispute to participate in mediation, which can now be conducted via teleconference or other electronic means if mutually agreed upon. The bill also specifies that all insured parties or their representatives must attend the mediation in person, and it outlines the responsibilities regarding the costs associated with mediation. Additionally, the Department of Financial Services is mandated to adopt rules for the mediation program and can implement emergency rules as necessary.

Furthermore, the bill revises the definition of "claim" and sets forth new requirements for policyholders, including the obligation to provide relevant information and documents to the insurer within ten days after mediation is invoked. It also clarifies the conditions under which a policyholder can rescind a settlement reached during mediation. The bill includes an appropriation of $1 million from the Insurance Regulatory Trust Fund to support the implementation of these changes, with an effective date of July 1, 2025, for the appropriation and January 1, 2026, for the rest of the act.

Statutes affected:
H 459 Filed: 627.7015, 627.7074