The bill amends Florida Statutes to establish mandatory mediation for disputed property insurance claims, making it a condition precedent to litigation. 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 mandates that all insureds or their representatives attend the mediation, and it specifies that the insurer must bear the costs of mediation, with certain exceptions. Additionally, the bill revises the definition of "claim" and outlines the responsibilities of policyholders, including the requirement to provide necessary documentation to the insurer within ten days of invoking mediation.

Furthermore, the bill authorizes the Department of Financial Services to adopt rules for the mediation program and allows for emergency rules in response to natural disasters. It also includes provisions for the consequences of non-compliance by either party during mediation, such as the insurer being liable for the policyholder's expenses if they fail to attend. The bill appropriates $1 million from the Insurance Regulatory Trust Fund for the administration of these changes and sets effective dates for the provisions, with most taking effect on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
H 341 Filed: 627.7015, 627.7074