The bill amends various sections of Florida Statutes concerning surplus lines insurance and property insurance claims, aiming to streamline regulations and enhance consumer protections. It removes the definition of "diligent effort" and revises the conditions for exporting insurance coverage, presuming that insured individuals are aware of other coverage options. New provisions are introduced that transfer liability and deductible provisions to surplus lines insurance, while also prohibiting policyholders from assigning post-loss insurance benefits. Insurers are mandated to acknowledge communications related to residential property insurance claims promptly and provide clear documentation, including timelines for claim payments and conditions for tolling time limits during mediation.

Additionally, the bill establishes new definitions for "reopened claims" and "supplemental claims," and it clarifies notice requirements for initiating litigation under property insurance policies. Insurers must respond to written notices of intent to initiate litigation within specified timeframes, and the bill outlines procedures for handling disputes. It also introduces amendments related to motor vehicle and flood insurance, including restrictions on nonrenewal policies based on accident history and the ability for surplus lines agents to export contracts without prior requirements. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency within Florida's insurance framework, with an effective date set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1184 Filed: 626.913, 626.914, 626.916, 627.4085, 627.701, 627.70131, 627.70132, 627.70152, 627.952, 626.931, 627.351, 626.918, 626.9325, 626.9541, 626.935, 627.715
S 1184 c1: 626.913, 626.914, 627.4085, 627.701, 627.70131, 627.70132, 627.70152, 627.952, 626.931, 627.351, 626.918, 626.9325, 626.9541, 626.935