Office of Insurance Regulation - Press Releases

Florida Office of Insurance Regulation Reaches Agreement with Hannover Re to be the First to Qualify as an Eligible Reinsurer Under New Terms

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 21:33:55 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today announced a new agreement that encourages foreign reinsurance companies to join Florida’s marketplace, something that Florida’s Legislature promoted as a result of the 2007 Property Insurance Special Session. The goal is to recruit more reinsurers to conduct business in Florida by reducing collateral requirements for qualified companies.

Florida Insurance Commissioner Orders Several Companies and Individuals to Cease And Desist the Unauthorized Sale of Health Insurance Products

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 19:22:09 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has issued an Order to a dozen entities, including companies and their officers, for the unauthorized sale of health insurance products to approximately 2,500 Floridians. The Order notifies the companies and their officers that the Office will issue a Final Order to Cease and Desist from engaging in the unauthorized transaction of insurance in Florida.

Florida Insurance Commissioner Orders Three Entities to Cease and Desist Sale of Unlicensed Products

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 19:23:55 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty yesterday announced the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has issued cease and desist orders to three entities, including their subsidiaries, for the unauthorized sale of warranty products and service agreements. These companies include an order to National Home Protection, an order to National Home Warranty, and an order to National Automotive Services.

Florida Office of Insurance Regulation Releases Annual Workers' Compensation Report

Thu, 31 Dec 2009 15:01:34 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today released to the Florida Legislature its 2009 Workers' Compensation Annual Report on the state of the workers' compensation insurance market in Florida. Read More...

Florida Office of Insurance Regulation Resolves Military Sales Litigation - Insurers to Pay $250,000 and Give Refunds to Policyholders

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 17:48:16 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has entered into consent agreements with American Fidelity Life Insurance Co. (American Fidelity) and Trans World Assurance Co.

Florida Insurance Commissioner Orders Four Companies to Cease and Desist Selling Motor Vehicle Service Agreement Products

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 15:45:33 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has issued an Order to National Automotive Services Inc.; Warranty Financial Inc. a/k/a Warranty Financial O.R.G. Inc.; Warranty USA; and Warranty Services to cease and desist transacting the unauthorized marketing and selling of motor vehicle service agreement products in Florida.

Florida Insurance Commissioner Orders American Assurance Underwriters Group and Its Affiliates to Cease and Desist Selling Health Insurance Products

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 15:38:35 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has issued an Order to American Assurance Underwriters Group and its affiliates Worldwide Expatriate Administrators LLC and Worldwide Expatriate Advisors LLC to cease and desist transacting the unauthorized marketing and selling of health insurance products in Florida.

Office Reaches Agreement with State Farm Florida; State Farm Florida Withdraws its Plan to Leave the State and Agrees to Non-Renew no More than 125,000 Residential Property Policies

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 16:08:55 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today announced that Commissioner Kevin McCarty has issued a Consent Order that resolves the pending litigation between State Farm Florida and the Office over State Farm Florida’s plan to leave the property insurance market. By the terms of the Consent Order, State Farm Florida will remain a significant player in the Florida residential property insurance marketplace.

Florida Insurance Commissioner McCarty Elected to Vice President of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 21:18:31 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation today announced that Commissioner Kevin McCarty was elected to the position of vice president of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). The vote today at the NAIC Winter National Meeting elevates McCarty to this position with the NAIC for a one-year term.

Statement by Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty on California Regulator’s Efforts to Determine Iranian Ties to Insurers’ Investments

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 22:08:16 GMT

Today the California Department of Insurance issued a press release highlighting their state’s efforts to determine the extent to which insurers transacting business in California hold investments in companies that conduct business in Iran. We applaud the leadership of Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner on this sensitive and important issue, and we look forward to working with the Commissioner on a national level.

Florida Insurance Commissioner Signs Order Establishing Citizens’ Rate Adjustments

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:53:04 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty yesterday signed an order establishing rates for the Citizens Property Insurance Corp.'s (Citizens) high-risk account. Read More.

DOAH Judge Dismisses Viatical Settlement Provider’s Challenge to Office of Insurance Regulation’s Viatical Exam Procedures

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 21:10:21 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today announced Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) Suzanne F. Hood of the Division of Administrative Hearings (DOAH) issued a Final Order dismissing Coventry First LLC’s (Coventry) allegations that the Office’s exam manuals and procedures are equivalent to rules, but not adopted as such, and are therefore in violation of Florida law. Read More...

Media Advisory -- Public Rate Hearing for Citizens Property Insurance Corp.

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 18:55:50 GMT

Media Advisory -- Public Rate Hearing for Citizens Property Insurance Corp.

Media Advisory -- Florida Insurance Commissioner Approves Citizens’ Rate Adjustments

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 17:31:38 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty yesterday signed an order establishing Citizens Property Insurance Corp.'s (Citizens) rates for some lines of business. Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Approves Seventh Consecutive Rate Decrease for Workers’ Compensation

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 19:48:01 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today issued a final order approving the National Council on Compensation Insurance's (NCCI) amended rate filing for workers' compensation insurance rates that will become effective Jan. 1. Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Orders Unauthorized Company to Cease and Desist

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 21:06:27 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced he has issued an order to Nationwide Home Warranty (Nationwide Warranty) with home offices in New York City to cease and desist transacting the unauthorized marketing and selling of home and service warranty products in this state. Read More...

Deputy Commissioner Mary Beth Senkewicz Testifies on Long-Term Care Insurance

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 16:49:53 GMT

Florida Deputy Insurance Commissioner Mary Beth Senkewicz offered testimony on Wednesday, October 14 before a joint hearing held by the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging and the Subcommittee on Oversight of Government Management... Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Announces Letter to Health Insurers and HMOs Requesting Swine Flu Vaccine be Administered at No Charge

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 16:17:40 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that he has issued a letter to health insurers and health maintenance organizations (HMO’s) encouraging carriers to provide the H1N1 Swine flu vaccine free to its policyholders. Read More...

Commissioner McCarty Approves Proposed Workers’ Compensation Insurance Rate Decrease

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 15:08:29 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced he has issued an order approving the proposed rate decrease submitted by the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) for workers' compensation insurance rates. Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Orders Unauthorized Company to Cease and Desist Selling Home Service Warranty Products

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 12:54:51 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that he has issued an Order to National Home Protection Inc. (National Home) to cease and desist transacting the unauthorized marketing and selling of home service warranty products. Read More...

Media Advisory -- Florida Deputy Insurance Commissioner Mary Beth Senkewicz to testify before the U.S. Senate

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 15:23:25 GMT

Florida Deputy Insurance Commissioner Mary Beth Senkewicz will testify before the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging... Read More

Court orders American Keystone Insurance Co. into Receivership

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 19:55:30 GMT

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – A Circuit Court on Friday granted the Department of Financial Services’ (Department) petition for an Order appointing the Department as receiver for the purposes of liquidating American Keystone Insurance Co. (American Keystone). Read More...

Insurance Commissioner McCarty Orders Insurers to Use Current Medicare Rates to Comply with Recent Legislation

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 19:30:10 GMT

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today issued orders to insurance companies that have not had approved new rates to comply with recent legislation... Read More

Florida’s 2009 Medical Malpractice Report Shows Positive Trends for the Industry

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 19:53:39 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) released its 2009 annual report on the medical malpractice insurance market in Florida. Read More...

Florida Office of Insurance Regulation and Bermuda Regulator Sign International Cooperation Agreement

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 18:26:15 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) and the Bermuda Monetary Authority (Authority) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Read More...

Returning Military Personnel Should Review Insurance Options

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 13:45:23 GMT

As thousands of military personnel prepare to return from deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan in the coming months, they should review their insurance coverage to make certain that they and their families stay protected no matter where they are... Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Orders Three Unauthorized Companies to Cease and Desist Selling Health Insurance

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 14:14:19 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that he has issued an Immediate Final Order to Peck & Peck Inc. Read More...

Proposed Workers’ Compensation Insurance Rates Would Decrease For the 7th Consecutive Year

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 15:21:07 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty announced today that he has received the latest rate filing from the National Council on Compensation Insurance... Read More...

Media Advisory -- PUBLIC RATE HEARING FOR CITIZENS PROPERTY INSURANCE CORP. POSTPONED

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 16:49:09 GMT

Media Advisory -- PUBLIC RATE HEARING FOR CITIZENS PROPERTY INSURANCE CORP. POSTPONED

Hartford Financial Services Group to Refund $48 Million in Excess Workers’ Comp Profits to Florida Businesses

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 15:06:40 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) and the Hartford Financial Services Group (Hartford) have entered into a consent agreement... Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Praises U.S. Rep. Castor for Sponsoring Amendment to Bring State Control back to Medicare Marketing

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 16:10:41 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty sent a letter to U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, D-FL, praising her for her sponsorship of an amendment that would restore state oversight to Medicare Advantage plan marketing practices. Read More...

Florida and Georgia Insurance Regulators Agree on Disaster Cooperation Plan

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 19:56:19 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty and Georgia Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine today announced that they have renewed a partnership agreement... Read More...

District Court Affirms Commissioner McCarty’s Denial of State Farm Rate Increase

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 15:21:33 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today announced that the First District Court of Appeal (DCA) has affirmed, without an opinion, the Jan. 12 final order of Commissioner Kevin McCarty. Read More...

Florida Office of Insurance Regulation and U.K. Regulator Sign International Cooperation Agreement

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 14:08:40 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) and the United Kingdom Financial Services Authority (FSA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding... Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Names Eric Lingswiler Director of Life and Health Product Review

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 13:15:32 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that he has appointed Eric Lingswiler to the position of director of Life and Health Product Review. Mr. Lingswiler has served as interim director since Aug. 18. He will report to Deputy Commissioner for Life and Health Mary Beth Senkewicz.

Florida Office of Insurance Regulation and German Regulator Sign International Cooperation Agreement

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 16:53:29 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) and the German Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht ("BaFin") have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)... Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Alleges Discrimination by Life Insurer, Liberty National

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 19:00:02 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty has ordered Liberty National Life Insurance Co. (Liberty National) to show cause why its license should not be suspended or revoked... Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Approves Workers’ Compensation Insurance Rate Decrease, New Law Cited

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 12:56:27 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that he has issued a final order approving a rollback from the April 1 rates to the lower workers’ compensation insurance rates that became effective Jan. 1. Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Urges Congressional Delegation to Maintain State-Based Regulation of Insurance

Thu, 21 May 2009 16:50:26 GMT

The state-based insurance regulatory system has been a constant in an otherwise erratic economic climate. Read More...

Florida Deputy Insurance Commissioner Testifies about Life Settlements before U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 14:30:46 GMT

Florida Deputy Insurance Commissioner for Life and Health Mary Beth Senkewicz testified Wednesday in Washington, D.C., before the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging on the subject of life settlements in the insurance industry. Read More...

Florida Office of Insurance Regulation Recovers $466K in Multistate Settlement Over Conseco Cos. Business Practices

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 13:43:14 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has received $466,000 as Florida’s share of a multistate settlement agreement with Conseco Senior Health Insurance Co. Read More...

U.S. District Court Judge Affirms Office of Insurance Regulation Right to Inspect All Business Records of Viatical Settlement Provider, Coventry First LLC

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 20:18:36 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that a U.S. District Court judge in Tallahassee has issued an order granting a motion by the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) to dismiss Coventry First LLC’s (Coventry) motion for injunctive relief to prohibit the Office from examining Coventry’s viatical settlement agreements with consumers outside of Florida. Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Selected Regulator of the Year by LexisNexis Insurance Law Center

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 14:55:13 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty has been selected as the Regulator of the Year by the LexisNexis Insurance Law Center’s (ILC) Advisory Board Person of the Year Awards for 2008. Read More...

People’s Trust Insurance to Stop Writing New Policies

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 17:01:23 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) and People’s Trust Insurance Co. (People’s Trust) have entered into a Consent Order that requires People’s Trust to stop writing new policies until it complies with provisions of the order. Read More...

Statement by Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty in Support of ‘Safeguard our Seniors’ Legislation

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 16:46:04 GMT

“I am pleased to offer support for CFO Alex Sink’s ‘Safeguard Our Seniors’ legislation (SB 1372) that was heard and passed at Tuesday’s Senate Banking and Insurance Committee meeting. Read More...

Florida Office of Insurance Regulation Submits Annual Report on Freedom to Travel Law

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 19:48:35 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty has submitted the 2009 Freedom to Travel Report to legislative leaders detailing the Office of Insurance Regulation's (Office) efforts to implement the "Freedom to Travel Act."

Florida Insurance Commissioner Approves State Farm Withdrawal Plan, With Conditions

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 16:03:31 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that he has conditionally approved the withdrawal plan submitted Jan. 27 to the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) by State Farm Florida Insurance Co. (State Farm Florida) and State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Co. (State Farm Mutual). Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Approves Workers’ Compensation Insurance Rate Increase, Court Ruling Cited

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 14:52:57 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that he has issued a final order approving a 6.4 percent increase in workers’ compensation insurance rates, based on an amended filing by the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI). Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Releases Report on Stranger-Originated Life Insurance, Cautions Senior Consumers

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 20:24:58 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today released a report, “Stranger-Originated Life Insurance and the Use of Fraudulent Activity to Circumvent the Intent of Florida’s Insurable Interest Law,” which closely analyzes the controversial issue of stranger-originated life insurance (STOLI). Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Subpoenas State Farm Policyholder Information

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 21:46:38 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that he has issued a subpoena to State Farm Florida Insurance Company (State Farm Florida) requesting detailed information about the company's Florida property insurance policyholders.

Statement by Fla. Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty on State Farm Plan to Stop Offering All Property Insurance in Florida

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 17:13:56 GMT

"Although this is disappointing news for Floridians, who have been loyal customers of State Farm, we are not surprised by State Farm's decision to stop offering all property insurance in Florida. Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Recommends Workers’ Compensation Insurance Rate Increase Due to Court Ruling

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 17:23:50 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that he has advised the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) that he would approve a rate filing to increase Florida’s workers’ compensation insurance rates by 6.4 percent to be effective April 1 for new and renewal business. Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Issues Final Order Denying State Farm Rate Increase

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 21:16:13 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today affirmed the ruling of an administrative law judge regarding the rate filing challenge between the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) and State Farm Florida (State Farm). Read More...

Florida Office of Insurance Regulation Releases Annual Workers' Compensation Report to the Florida Legislature

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 19:37:28 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today released to the Florida Legislature its 2008 Workers' Compensation Annual Report on the state of the market for workers' compensation insurance.

Florida Office of Insurance Regulation Seeks Disciplinary Action Against Conseco Life Insurance Co.

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 16:56:32 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today announced that it has ordered the Conseco Life Insurance Co. (Conseco Life) to show cause to the Office why it should not suspend or revoke the company’s license, based on allegations of mismanagement. Read More....

Developmental Disabilities Compact Workgroup Adopts Proposal to Offer Benefits to All Persons with a Developmental Disability

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 21:02:33 GMT

Florida Deputy Insurance Commissioner Mary Beth Senkewicz today announced that the Developmental Disabilities Compact Workgroup has adopted a compact that will extend benefits to persons with all developmental disabilities, not just individuals with autism. Read More...

Media Advisory -- Developmental Disabilities Compact Workgroup to Discuss Draft Benefits Proposals

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 22:08:31 GMT

Media Advisory - Developmental Disabilities Compact Workgroup to Discuss Draft Benefits Proposals. Read More...

Media Advisory -- NCCI Work Comp Rate Hearing Tuesday

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 16:22:07 GMT

Public rate hearing for the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) to consider the workers’ compensation rate filing it made Nov. 14. Read More...

DOAH Judge Recommends Denial of State Farm Rate Increase

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 21:30:34 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today announced that Administrative Law Judge Daniel Manry of the Division of Administrative Hearings (DOAH) late Friday afternoon issued a Recommended Order denying State Farm’s indicated statewide average rate increase... Read More...

Fla. Gov. Crist Launches Cover Florida, Invites Florida’s Uninsured to Consider Affordable Health Insurance Options

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 17:20:18 GMT

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Gov. Charlie Crist today witnessed the signing of contracts between six health insurance providers and Secretary Holly Benson of the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) and Commissioner Kevin McCarty Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Elected to Officer Position with National Association of Insurance Commissioners

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 13:04:06 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation today announced that Commissioner Kevin McCarty was elected to the position of secretary-treasurer for the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). The vote today at the NAIC Winter National Meeting elevates McCarty to an officer position with the NAIC for a 1-year term.

Florida Office of Insurance Regulation Earns Renewal of NAIC Accreditation

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 20:20:55 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today announced that it was recognized at the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) Winter National Meeting for renewal of its Financial Regulation Standards accreditation. The accreditation acknowledges the Office for meeting the NAIC's standards for regulating the solvency of insurance companies licensed in the state.

Florida Insurance Commissioner Approves Another Round of Policy Removals From Citizens Property Insurance Corp.

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 21:13:34 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced the removal of up to 110,000 policies from Citizens Property Insurance Corp... Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Approves Another Rate Decrease for Workers’ Compensation, but Cautions that Rate Increases Might Come Soon

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 18:16:49 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty Tuesday issued a final order approving the National Council on Compensation Insurance's (NCCI) amended rate filing for workers' compensation insurance rates that will become effective Jan. 1. Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Names John McBride Legislative Affairs Director

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 19:16:33 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that he has appointed John McBride to the position of Legislative Affairs Director. Mr. McBride will report to Chief of Staff Audrey Brown. Read More...

Fla. Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty Comments Further on Fla. Supreme Court Decision on Attorney Fees in Workers’ Compensation Cases

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 21:01:35 GMT

"Florida employers have realized a tremendous savings on their workers’ compensation insurance due in no small part to the limitations on attorneys’ fees that were put in place as a result of the 2003 legislative reforms. Read More...

Statement by Fla. Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty on Fla. Supreme Court Decision on Attorney Fees in Workers’ Compensation Cases

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 18:41:19 GMT

"The Office of Insurance Regulation is reviewing the court's decision to determine its potential impact on the workers' compensation system as a whole and on future workers' compensation insurance rates in Florida."

Statement by Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty on Selection of Cover Florida Insurers

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 19:01:44 GMT

Statement by Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty on Selection of Cover Florida Insurers... Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Orders Further Reduction in Workers’ Compensation Insurance Rates

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 19:00:51 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that he has disapproved the National Council on Compensation Insurance’s (NCCI) Aug. 27 rate filing for workers' compensation insurance rates that would become effective Jan. 1. Read More...

Developmental Disabilities Compact Workgroup Discusses Coverage Options

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 16:50:24 GMT

The Developmental Disabilities Compact workgroup met Tuesday to begin initial discussions about coverage and benefits that private health insurers can offer to persons with developmental disabilities. Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner McCarty Says: Leave Insurance Regulation to the States

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 14:57:51 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today released the following comments in response to recent opinions offered, in the wake of the financial issues of the American International Group (AIG), that insurance regulation should be moved to the federal level. Read More...

Statement by Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty on Current Situation with AIG Companies

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 14:02:26 GMT

“I have been monitoring the AIG situation very closely; and I have been in contact with my fellow regulators in New York and Pennsylvania – the two states with primary regulatory control over the AIG companies involved. Read More...

Florida Office of Insurance Regulation’s New Reinsurance Rule Approved by State Financial Services Commission

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 18:27:43 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today announced that the Florida Cabinet, in its capacity as the Financial Services Commission, approved a rule that would implement 2007 legislation giving the insurance commissioner discretion to allow the financially strongest unaccredited reinsurance companies to conduct business in Florida without having to post 100 percent collateral. Read More...

Fla. Insurance Commissioner Orders State Farm to Refund $120 Million to Policyholders for Unpaid Mitigation Discounts

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 21:43:23 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that he has ordered State Farm Florida (State Farm) to issue credits or refunds totaling $120 million to current and former policyholders... Read More...

Fla. Insurance Commissioner Appoints Additional Members to Developmental Disabilities Compact Consumer Advisory Workgroup

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:11:39 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced the appointment of six additional members to the new Developmental Disabilities Compact Consumer Advisory Workgroup. Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Issues 2 Emergency Orders to Help Consumers Impacted by Hurricane Ike

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 12:46:04 GMT

In an effort to help Florida consumers who may be impacted by Hurricane Ike, Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today issued two emergency orders to all health insurers and health maintenance organizations (HMOs). Read More...

Florida Office of Insurance Regulation Rejects State Farm

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 15:43:11 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has rejected State Farm Florida’s (State Farm) petition for a formal hearing... Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Approves AmCOMP Merger, also Requires Company to Refund $8.4 Million in Excess Profits

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 17:51:27 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has approved the merger of AmCOMP with Employers Holdings Inc. Read More...

Media Advisory -- Florida Office of Insurance Regulation to host public hearing on Stranger Owned Life Insurance (STOLI)

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 18:17:58 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty will chair an informational hearing to discuss and receive public comment on the business arrangements variously called Stranger Owned Life Insurance... Read More...

Office issues notice of intent to disapprove State Farm’s 47.1 percent requested rate increase

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 21:36:26 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has issued a Notice of Intent to disapprove the July 16 rate filing submitted by State Farm Florida (State Farm). Read More...

Media Advisory -- Hurricane Deductible Does Not Apply

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 17:56:15 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty is issuing this advisory to remind Florida consumers and authorized insurers that the hurricane deductible of their homeowner’s policy does not apply at this time... Read More...

Media Advisory -- Meeting Postponed

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 18:34:24 GMT

Meeting Postponed

Florida Insurance Commissioner Issues 2 Emergency Orders to Help Consumers Impacted by Tropical Storm Fay

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 11:57:35 GMT

In an effort to help Florida consumers impacted by Tropical Storm Fay, Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today issued two emergency orders to all health insurers and health maintenance organizations (HMOs).

Florida Insurance Commissioner Names Eric Lingswiler Interim Director of Life and Health Product Review

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 14:31:04 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that he has appointed Eric Lingswiler to the position of interim director of Life and Health Product Review. Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner and Allstate Resolve Pending Litigation, Company to Expand Writing Homeowners Insurance in Florida

Fri, 15 Aug 2008 20:11:24 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has reached a limited agreement with the Allstate Companies (Allstate) that includes a $5 million fine... Read More...

* URGENT * Media Advisory - Florida Insurance Commissioner to hold a news conference on new development in the ongoing Allstate matter

Fri, 15 Aug 2008 19:34:48 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty will hold a news conference to discuss a new development in the ongoing matter with the Allstate Insurance Companies. Read More...

Gov. Crist and Insurance Commissioner McCarty Announce Updated Web site to Shop for Homeowners’ Insurance

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 12:19:16 GMT

Gov. Charlie Crist and Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced the launch of the updated www.shopandcomparerates.com Web site. The two offices activated this free, online tool in July 2007 to assist consumers looking to acquire or switch homeowners’ insurance coverage.

Florida Insurance Commissioner Issues Notice of Intent to Disapprove Proposed Rate Hike for Florida Farm Bureau Insurance

Tue, 05 Aug 2008 15:37:11 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has issued a Notice of Intent to disapprove... Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Appoints Members of Developmental Disabilities Compact Workgroups

Mon, 04 Aug 2008 16:43:18 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced the appointments of the members of the new Developmental Disabilities Compact Workgroup and the Developmental Disabilities Compact Consumer Advisory Workgroup. Read More...

Florida to collect $1.7 million as part of multi-state settlement with HealthMarkets Inc.

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 16:22:23 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that Florida will receive $1.7 million dollars as its share of a $20 million multi-state settlement agreement among 29 jurisdictions and HealthMarkets Inc., and its affiliated companies, MEGA Life and Health Insurance Co, Mid-West National Life Insurance Co. and Chesapeake Life Insurance Co. Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner McCarty Praises Court’s Decision Prohibiting the Use of Mandatory Arbitration in Life Insurance Contracts

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 14:03:20 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty welcomed the First District Court of Appeal’s decision affirming the Office of Insurance Regulation’s (Office) denial of United Insurance Company of America’s (United) request to include a mandatory arbitration clause in its life insurance contracts. Read More...

Media Advisory -- Commissioner to Speak to House Subcommittee

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 15:27:06 GMT

Commissioner McCarty will speak to the House subcommittee and offer comments on the increasing demand for long-term care insurance products; and he will explain how Florida, with one of the oldest populations in the United States, has implemented the most stringent requirements in the nation to protect seniors from unfair rate increases, unfair trade practices and discrimination.

Florida Insurance Commissioner McCarty Joins Gov. Crist in Meeting with Lloyd’s of London

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 20:55:53 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today in London joined Gov. Charlie Crist and House Speaker Designate Ray Sansom in a meeting with Lord Levene... Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner Issues Final Order in Florida Farm Bureau Rate Challenge

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 18:27:39 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty affirmed the ruling of administrative law judge Susan B. Harrell regarding the rate filing challenge between the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) and Florida Farm Bureau (Farm Bureau). Read More...

Statement by Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty on Gov. Crist Signing Annuities Bill into Law

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 13:34:34 GMT

“I am very pleased that Gov. Crist has signed this important legislation, SB 2082, creating a law that will enhance protections for senior Floridians who are considering the purchase of annuities. Read More...

Statement by Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty on Retirement of Citizens’ Board Chairman Bruce Douglas

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 18:57:49 GMT

“Mr. Douglas brought vision and expertise to addressing very challenging and complex problems and has helped Citizens become the customer-focused organization that it is today. Read More...

Statement by Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty on Florida Supreme Court Order Declining Jurisdiction in Allstate Matter

Wed, 18 Jun 2008 21:17:37 GMT

“We are pleased with the Florida Supreme Court’s decision in declining to accept jurisdiction of the matter between Allstate and the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office). Read More...

Florida Insurance Commissioner McCarty Issues Final Order in Hartford Rate Challenge

Mon, 02 Jun 2008 18:11:57 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty has affirmed the ruling of an administrative law judge regarding the rate filing challenge between the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) and The Hartford Companies (Hartford). Read More...

FLORIDA AGENCIES ANNOUNCE $4 MILLION INSURANCE SETTLEMENT WITH AON CORP.

Fri, 23 May 2008 16:31:47 GMT

Attorney General Bill McCollum, Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink and Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that Florida has reached a settlement with Aon Corp., a large insurance broker that received undisclosed compensation in connection with the placement of insurance coverage on behalf of Florida policyholders.

FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER MCCARTY APPROVES ANOTHER ROUND OF POLICY REMOVALS FROM CITIZENS

Wed, 21 May 2008 19:04:45 GMT

Commissioner McCarty announced today that the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has approved the plans of six insurance companies to remove another 100,000 policies from Citizens Property Insurance Corp. in June. Read More...

MEDIA ADVISORY -- FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER KEVIN MCCARTY TO TESTIFY BEFORE U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES SUBCOMMITTEE

Tue, 20 May 2008 19:29:59 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty, on behalf of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, will testify before the U.S. House of Representatives Financial Services Subcommittee... Read More...

FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER MCCARTY STAYS ALLSTATE SUSPENSION, CONTINUING COMPLIANCE REQUIRED

Mon, 19 May 2008 12:44:55 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that he has ordered a stay of the suspension of the Allstate Companies’ licenses to sell new business in Florida. Read More...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION TO CONDUCT SYMPOSIUM TO HELP COMPANIES WITH FORM AND RATE FILINGS

Thu, 15 May 2008 17:42:14 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) will host a Filing & Compliance Symposium May 22 and 23 at the Rosen Centre Hotel in Orlando, Fla. Read More...

FLORIDA APPEALS COURT DENIES ALLSTATE MOTION FOR REHEARING, SUSPENSION RESUMES

Wed, 14 May 2008 19:48:41 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced the immediate resumption of the suspension of the certificates of authority of the Allstate Companies to write new insurance policies in Florida. Read More...

URGENT MEDIA ADVISORY -- FIRST DISTRICT COURT OF APPEAL UPHOLDS FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION IMMEDIATE FINAL ORDER AGAINST ALLSTATE

Wed, 14 May 2008 19:36:36 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty will hold a media availability to discuss the First District Court of Appeal’s order of today upholding the Office’s Jan. 17 Immediate Final Order... Read More...

STATEMENT BY FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER KEVIN MCCARTY ON DISTRICT COURT OPINION AFFIRMING IFO AGAINST ALLSTATE

Wed, 14 May 2008 14:58:43 GMT

“I’m pleased to report that the First District Court today has again affirmed the appropriateness of the Office’s action in issuing the January Immediate Final Order suspending Allstate’s licenses to sell new business in Florida... Read More...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ISSUES ORDER ALLEGING INAPPROPRIATE BUSINESS PRACTICES TO 2 LIFE INSURANCE COMPANIES, AMERICAN FIDELITY LIFE AND TRANS WORLD ASSURANCE

Thu, 08 May 2008 15:02:22 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has issued an Order to Show Cause to two life insurance companies related to their solicitation of business from U.S. military personnel. Read More...

STATEMENT BY FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER KEVIN MCCARTY ON HOUSE AND SENATE PASSAGE OF ANNUITIES BILL

Fri, 02 May 2008 20:31:59 GMT

I am very pleased that this important legislation has passed, because it will enhance protections for senior consumers who are considering the purchase of annuities. Read More...

STATEMENT BY FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER KEVIN MCCARTY ON HOUSE VERSION OF PROPERTY INSURANCE BILL

Thu, 01 May 2008 14:38:55 GMT

“I am pleased that some significant consumer safeguards have been maintained in the House version of Sen. Atwater’s original consumer-focused legislation, SB 2860. Read More...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION HOLDS PUBLIC HEARING ON NEW REINSURANCE RULES

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 21:38:27 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today held a public hearing to ask for input on a draft rule that would implement 2007 legislation giving the insurance commissioner discretion to allow unaccredited reinsurance companies to conduct business in Florida without having to post 100 percent collateral. Read More...

CORRECTION FLORIDA APPEALS COURT DENIES ALLSTATE MOTION FOR REHEARING, SUSPENSION WILL RESUME

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 12:40:59 GMT

The District Court of Appeal has withdrawn the Order it issued earlier today. Read More...

FLORIDA HEALTH INSURANCE ADVISORY BOARD SUPPORTS GOVERNOR'S HEALTH PLAN

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 18:35:38 GMT

The Florida Health Insurance Advisory Board (Advisory Board) met today to discuss several bills currently making their way through the legislature... Read More...

STATEMENT BY FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER KEVIN MCCARTY ON SENATE PASSAGE OF CONSUMER-FOCUSED BILL

Wed, 16 Apr 2008 15:35:58 GMT

"I am extremely pleased that the Florida Senate today passed, SB 2860, the consumer-focused legislation sponsored by Sen. Jeff Atwater (R-North Palm Beach).

MEDIA ADVISORY – FLORIDA HEALTH INSURANCE ADVISORY BOARD MEETING

Wed, 16 Apr 2008 15:31:32 GMT

The Florida Health Insurance Advisory Board announced that it will hold a public hearing to discuss and act on matters relating to the business of the Florida Health Insurance Advisory Board/ Florida Heath Reinsurance Program only.

STATEMENT BY FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER KEVIN MCCARTY ON MEETING WITH ALLSTATE AGENTS

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 15:50:52 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today met with several Allstate agents in his office to hear their personal stories and concerns... Read More...

MEDIA ADVISORY -- FIRST DISTRICT COURT OF APPEAL CLARIFIES RULING UPHOLDING FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION IMMEDIATE FINAL ORDER AGAINST ALLSTATE

Tue, 08 Apr 2008 20:13:01 GMT

In a clarification of its April 4 ruling, upholding the Office's Jan. 17 Immediate Final Order, suspending the licenses of the Allstate Companies from writing any new business in Florida... Read More...

FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER ANNOUNCES RESUMPTION OF ALLSTATE INSURANCE COMPANIES’ SUSPENSION

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 19:55:55 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that he will resume the suspension of the certificates of authority of the Allstate Companies to write new insurance in Florida until they fully comply with the subpoenas served Oct. 16 by the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office).

URGENT MEDIA ADVISORY -- FIRST DISTRICT COURT OF APPEAL UPHOLDS FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION IMMEDIATE FINAL ORDER AGAINST ALLSTATE

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 19:05:03 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty will hold a media availability to discuss the First District Court of Appeal's order of today upholding the Office's Jan. 17 Immediate Final Order... Read More...

STATEMENT BY FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER KEVIN MCCARTY ON PASSAGE OF CONSUMER-FOCUSED BILL BY SENATE BANKING AND INSURANCE COMMITTEE

Tue, 25 Mar 2008 19:46:40 GMT

"I am extremely pleased that the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee passed the consumer-focused legislation proposed today by Sen. Jeff Atwater (R-Palm Beach). Read More...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION FILES FORMAL COMPLAINT TO SUSPEND AMERICAN GENERAL LIFE INSURANCE CO. LICENSE

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 18:09:50 GMT

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has filed an administrative complaint against the American General Life Insurance Co. Read More...

STATEMENT BY FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER KEVIN MCCARTY ON RECOMMENDATIONS BY SENATE SELECT COMMITTEE ON PROPERTY INSURANCE ACCOUNTABILITY

Thu, 13 Mar 2008 20:45:13 GMT

"I want to express my deep appreciation for the hard work and support of the Select Committee and its co-chairs, Sen. Atwater and Sen. Geller. Read More...

FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER MCCARTY AMENDS CITIZENS' TAKE-OUT PROCEDURES AND REQUIRES POLICYHOLDER NOTIFICATION OF OFFERS FROM PRIVATE INSURANCE COMPANIES

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 15:49:53 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today signed an Order approving Citizens' take-out plans for the year and requiring Citizens Property Insurance Corp. Read More...

MEDIA ADVISORY -- FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER TO SPEAK AT FLORIDA ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY EXECUTIVE FORUM SERIES

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 17:59:41 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty will be the featured speaker in Thursday's Executive Forum Series at the Florida Atlantic University College of Business. Read More...

MEDIA ADVISORY -- FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION TO CONDUCT PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED RATE INCREASE

Tue, 04 Mar 2008 15:17:46 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) will conduct a public hearing on the Foremost Insurance Group's proposed rate increases of up to 72.9 percent on mobile homeowners insurance rates. Read More...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION SUBMITS ANNUAL REPORT ON FREEDOM TO TRAVEL LAW

Mon, 03 Mar 2008 15:13:31 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today submitted the 2008 Freedom to Travel Report to legislative leaders... Read More...

FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER ORDERS WORKERS' COMPENSATION INSURANCE COMPANIES TO REFUND MILLIONS IN EXCESS PROFITS

Wed, 20 Feb 2008 16:04:10 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty has ordered six workers' compensation insurance companies to return $4.2 million in excessive profits to their policyholders. Read More...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION FILES FORMAL COMPLAINT TO SUSPEND ALLSTATE COMPANIES' LICENSES

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 14:56:59 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has filed an administrative complaint on a non-emergency basis seeking to suspend the certificates of authority of the Allstate Companies (Allstate) to write new insurance policies in Florida. Read More...

MEDIA ADVISORY -- FROM THE FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION

Thu, 07 Feb 2008 19:23:59 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty will address the U.S. House of Representatives Financial Services Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations at a special field hearing about the Florida homeowners' insurance crisis... Read More...

FLORIDA HEALTH INSURANCE ADVISORY BOARD ANNOUNCES PUBLIC MEETING IN FT. LAUDERDALE

Wed, 30 Jan 2008 19:19:54 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation announced today that the Florida Health Insurance Advisory Board (Board) will hold a public meeting Friday, Feb. 1 at the Ft. Lauderdale City Hall in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Read More...

McCOLLUM, SINK AND McCARTY ANNOUNCE $12.5 MILLION AIG INSURANCE SETTLEMENT

Tue, 29 Jan 2008 19:16:45 GMT

Attorney General Bill McCollum, Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink and Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that Florida has reached a settlement with a large insurance carrier involved in a "pay-to-play" tactic used by Marsh & McLennan and other insurance brokers. Read More...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION FILES ARGUMENT TO REINSTATE ALLSTATE SUSPENSION

Wed, 23 Jan 2008 20:09:10 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today announced that it has filed its response with the First District Court of Appeal seeking to have the suspension of the Allstate Companies' certificates of authority reinstated. Read More...

STATEMENT BY FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER KEVIN MCCARTY ON ALLSTATE'S EMERGENCY MOTION FOR IMMEDIATE RELIEF

Fri, 18 Jan 2008 17:49:39 GMT

"My office has received Allstate's Emergency Motion for Immediate Relief and is currently reviewing it very carefully.
Read More...

MEDIA ADVISORY -- FROM THE FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION

Thu, 17 Jan 2008 19:07:15 GMT

MEIDA ADVISORY -- FROM THE FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION

FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER SUSPENDS ALLSTATE INSURANCE CO.

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 15:15:36 GMT

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that he is suspending the certificate of authority of Allstate Companies to write new insurance in Florida until they fully comply with the subpoenas served Oct. 16 by the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office).

MEDIA ADVISORY -- FROM THE FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 22:11:06 GMT

MEDIA ADVISORY -- FROM THE FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION

FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER STOPS ALLSTATE HEARING

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 19:40:47 GMT

TALLAHASSEE, FL – Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today abruptly halted the scheduled two-day hearing into Allstate Companies’ reinsurance program, their relationships to risk modeling companies, insurance rating organizations and insurance trade associations.

STATEMENT BY FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER KEVIN MCCARTY ON STATE SENATE REQUEST FOR INSURANCE CO. EXECUTIVES TO TESTIFY AT PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPERTY INSURANCE RATES

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 17:31:16 GMT

"I am pleased that Gov. Crist and the Legislature are supportive of the efforts of the Office of Insurance Regulation to ensure that insurance companies are complying with the law that was enacted last January. Read More...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION RELEASES ANNUAL WORKERS' COMPENSATION REPORT TO THE FLORIDA LEGISLATURE

Mon, 31 Dec 2007 14:58:22 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today released its annual report on the state of the market for workers' compensation insurance to the Florida Legislature. Read More...

FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER DENIES TRAVELERS COMPANIES' RATE FILING

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 22:18:33 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced the denial of rate filing submitted by The Travelers Companies Inc. (Travelers). Read More...

FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER ANNOUNCES SETTLEMENT WITH UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE COMPANIES

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 21:09:59 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced an agreement with Universal Health Care Insurance Co. and Universal Health Care... Read More...

IDENTITY THEFT, YOU CAN INSURE YOURSELF AGAINST IT

Tue, 11 Dec 2007 21:14:22 GMT

It might be the season of giving, but a new survey shows that a majority of Americans are actually worried about what might be taken from them. Read More...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ORDERS COMPANIES TO IMMEDIATELY CEASE ILLEGAL HEALTH INSURANCE SOLICITATION

Wed, 05 Dec 2007 17:18:50 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today issued an Immediate Final Order... Read More...

FLORIDA HEALTH INSURANCE ADVISORY BOARD SUBMITS LEGISLATIVE RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE GOVERNOR AND LEGISLATURE

Mon, 03 Dec 2007 19:34:22 GMT

The Florida Health Insurance Advisory Board (Board) has submitted its 2008 legislative recommendations for improvements in Florida's private health insurance market. Read More...

ROBIN WESTCOTT NAMED DIRECTOR OF PROPERTY AND CASUALTY FINANCIAL OVERSIGHT AT FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION

Mon, 03 Dec 2007 16:10:29 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that he has promoted Robin Westcott to director of property and casualty financial oversight with the Office of Insurance Regulation... Read More

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION DENIES PROPOSED RATE HIKE FOR ALLSTATE COMPANIES

Fri, 16 Nov 2007 20:24:08 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has issued Notices of Intent... Read More...

FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER KEVIN MCCARTY ANNOUNCES SETTLEMENT WITH FIRST AMERICAN TITLE

Fri, 16 Nov 2007 14:17:19 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that he has signed an agreement resolving an ongoing joint investigation of The First American Title Insurance Company... Read More...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION PARTICIPATES IN MULTI-STATE SETTLEMENT OVER DISCRIMINATORY LIFE INSURANCE PRICING

Thu, 15 Nov 2007 18:42:11 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) announced today that it has joined the states of Texas, Georgia, California and Ohio in reaching a settlement with Americo Life Inc. Read More...

AUDREY BROWN PROMOTED TO CHIEF OF STAFF AT FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION

Tue, 13 Nov 2007 22:10:22 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that he has promoted Audrey Brown to the position of chief of staff with the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office), effective Nov. 19. Read More...

MEDIA ADVISORY -- PUBLIC RATE HEARING SCHEDULED FOR ALLSTATE COMPANIES

Fri, 09 Nov 2007 19:59:36 GMT

PUBLIC RATE HEARING SCHEDULED FOR ALLSTATE COMPANIES Read More...

STATEMENT BY FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER KEVIN MCCARTY ON U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES PASSAGE OF THE HOMEOWNERS’ DEFENSE ACT OF 2007

Fri, 09 Nov 2007 14:38:06 GMT

"I want to congratulate the U.S. House of Representatives on having the vision and leadership to pass HR 3355, The Homeowners' Defense Act of 2007. I especially want to extend my personal thanks and gratitude to the bill's authors, Congressmen Ron Klein and Tim Mahoney, both of Florida. Read More...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION APPROVES NEW MULTI-PERIL COMMERCIAL INSURANCE PROGRAM FOR CITIZENS PROPERTY INSURANCE CORPORATION

Mon, 05 Nov 2007 21:04:02 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) announced today that it has approved a new multi-peril commercial non-residential insurance program for Citizens Property Insurance Corp. (Citizens). Read More...

FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER MCCARTY APPROVES RATE DECREASE FOR WORKERS’ COMPENSATION

Wed, 31 Oct 2007 15:26:53 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty announced today that he has approved the National Council on Compensation Insurance's (NCCI) amended rate filing for workers' compensation insurance rates. Read More...

REPORT SHOWS MIXED RESULTS FOR HEALTH INSURANCE MARKET IN FLORIDA

Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:36:33 GMT

The Florida Health Insurance Advisory Board (FHIAB) yesterday issued a report about the Florida health insurance market covering the period 2001 to 2006. Read More...

PRIVATE INSURERS FIND WAY TO GROW IN FLORIDA HOMEOWNERS MARKET

Mon, 29 Oct 2007 15:01:08 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today announced that it has signed Consent Orders allowing four companies to assume a total of 173,000 policies from the Citizens Property Insurance Corp., the state's insurer of last resort. Read More...

MEDIA ADVISORY -- AUTO-OWNERS PUBLIC HEARING POSTPONED

Tue, 23 Oct 2007 18:42:19 GMT

WHAT: AUTO-OWNERS PUBLIC HEARING POSTPONED More...

FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER MCCARTY ORDERS FURTHER DECREASE IN WORKERS’ COMPENSATION INSURANCE RATES

Tue, 23 Oct 2007 15:24:45 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty announced today that he has disapproved the National Council on Compensation Insurance's (NCCI) latest rate filing for workers' compensation insurance rates, due to become effective next year. Read More...

FLORIDA DEPUTY INSURANCE COMMISSIONER SENKEWICZ TO SPEAK AT FAHP ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 18:44:27 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation's (Office) Deputy Insurance Commissioner for Life and Health, Mary Beth Senkewicz, is scheduled to speak Oct. 23 at the 2007 Florida Association of Health Plans (FAHP) Annual Conference at the Four Seasons Resort in Palm Beach, Fla. Read More...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION SUBPOENAS ALLSTATE FOR PUBLIC HEARING ON POLICIES AND RATES

Tue, 16 Oct 2007 16:18:06 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today announced that it has issued subpoenas to the following Allstate companies doing business in Florida...Read More

FLORIDA CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE RULES IN FAVOR OF OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ON CHALLENGE TO SUBPOENAS

Thu, 11 Oct 2007 19:44:27 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today announced that a Leon County Circuit Court Judge has dismissed petitions filed by the Cincinnati Insurance Co. and the Cincinnati Indemnity Co. Read More...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION DENIES USAA RATE FILING, PUBLIC HEARING CANCELLED

Mon, 08 Oct 2007 19:10:36 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) announced today the disapproval of a rate increase filing submitted by United Services Automobile Association (USAA), USAA Casualty Insurance Company and USAA General Indemnity Company. Read More...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION REACHES AGREEMENT WITH STATE FARM, RETURNING MORE THAN $46 MILLION TO POLICYHOLDERS

Tue, 02 Oct 2007 13:47:17 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office), in collaboration with the Office of the Attorney General (OAG), today announced that it has reached an agreement with State Farm Florida to reduce rates by an additional 2 percent for its Florida policyholders. Read More...

FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER ANNOUNCES SETTLEMENT WITH VIATICAL PROVIDER

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 16:08:52 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that a settlement has been reached with Coventry First LLC (Coventry) regarding an investigation into the company's business practices in Florida. Read More...

FLORIDA’S 2007 MEDICAL MALPRACTICE REPORT SHOWS POSITIVE TRENDS FOR THE INDUSTRY

Fri, 28 Sep 2007 21:28:50 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today released its 2007 annual report on the medical malpractice insurance market in Florida. Read More...

COMMISSIONER MCCARTY ADDRESSES REGULATORS AND INDUSTRY ON CATASTROPHE ISSUES

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 20:55:56 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today addressed fellow regulators, congressional leaders, members of the insurance industry and the media as part of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners' (NAIC) Southeast Zone meeting in Mobile, Ala. Read More...

FLORIDA HEALTH INSURANCE ADVISORY BOARD TO HOLD CONFERENCE CALL

Fri, 21 Sep 2007 13:43:16 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation announced today that the Florida Health Insurance Advisory Board (Board) will hold a conference call Sept. 25 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to discuss additional business that was not covered during Monday's meeting. Read More...

FLORIDA FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMISSION ADOPTS RULE TO PROTECT MILITARY PERSONNEL FROM INSURANCE SALES FRAUD

Wed, 19 Sep 2007 15:09:12 GMT

The Florida Financial Services Commission, which is comprised of Gov. Charlie Crist and members of the Cabinet, today adopted a Rule proposed by Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty that will protect active duty service members of the U.S. Armed Forces from dishonest and predatory insurance sales practices in Florida. Read More...

COMMISSIONER MCCARTY TO CONDUCT PUBLIC HEARING ON CINCINNATI RATE FILINGS

Mon, 17 Sep 2007 18:27:30 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) will conduct a public hearing on rate filings submitted by The Cincinnati Insurance Company and The Cincinnati Indemnity Company. Read More...

FLORIDA HEALTH INSURANCE ADVISORY BOARD TO HOLD PUBLIC HEARING

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 13:30:15 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation announced today that the Florida Health Insurance Advisory Board (Board) will hold a public hearing Monday, Sept. 17 at noon at 401 Senate Office Building, 404 South Monroe Street, Tallahassee. Read More...

COMMISSIONER MCCARTY DENIES RATE INCREASES FOR HARTFORD INSURANCE COMPANIES

Thu, 13 Sep 2007 14:31:51 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced the denial of eight rate filings submitted by insurance companies of The Hartford Financial Services Group. The filings submitted were not actuarially justified and lacked supporting information. Read More...

COMMISSIONER MCCARTY TO CO-HOST HEARING ON INSURANCE COVERAGE ISSUES IN COASTAL REGIONS

Wed, 12 Sep 2007 13:25:04 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty along with Alabama Insurance Commissioner Walter Bell will co-host a public hearing to address issues of affordability and availability of property insurance in high-hazard coastal areas of the Southeast. Read More...

COMMISSIONER MCCARTY RESCHEDULES STATE FARM PUBLIC HEARING ON POLICIES AND RATES

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 14:41:37 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty has expanded the Office's review of State Farm Florida Insurance Company, State Farm Florida Fire and Casualty Insurance Company and State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company. Read More...

COMMISSIONER MCCARTY JOINS WITH OTHER STATES IN A SETTLEMENT WITH UNITED HEALTHCARE WORTH MILLIONS

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 20:24:35 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced a multi-state settlement agreement with United Healthcare Insurance Company and affiliates following a multi-year review of company practices. Read More...

PROPOSED WORKERS’ COMPENSATION INSURANCE RATES WOULD DROP FOR FIFTH CONSECUTIVE YEAR

Fri, 05 Oct 2007 20:35:13 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty announced today he has received the latest rate filing for workers' compensation insurance rates due to become effective next year. Read More...

COMMISSIONER MCCARTY SCHEDULES PUBLIC HEARING ON TITLE INSURANCE

Mon, 20 Aug 2007 19:53:59 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty served subpoenas on several members of the title insurance industry, directing them to appear before a panel of the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) to discuss matters involving the sales and business practices of title insurance in Florida. Read More...

TWO INSURANCE COMPANIES WITHDRAW FILINGS FOR RATE INCREASES

Fri, 17 Aug 2007 18:16:30 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) announced today that AMEX Assurance Company and IDS Property Casualty Insurance Company withdrew their filings. Read More...

FLORIDA HEALTH INSURANCE ADVISORY BOARD MEETS IN MIAMI

Wed, 15 Aug 2007 21:14:34 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation announced today a scheduled public meeting of the Florida Health Insurance Advisory Board to discuss matters surrounding the availability and affordability of health insurance in Florida. Read More...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION DENIES RATE FILINGS

Tue, 14 Aug 2007 16:21:59 GMT

This week, the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation denied the rate requests of three companies for not substantially lowering their property insurance rates pursuant to House Bill 1A. Read More...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION TAKES ACTION ON RATE FILING

Fri, 10 Aug 2007 20:54:36 GMT

This week, the Office of Insurance Regulation disapproved Metropolitan Casualty Insurance Company's and Metropolitan Property & Casualty Insurance Company's rate filings because they lacked the legally required signatures of either the Chief Executive Officer or Chief Financial Officer. Read More...

STATE FARM HEARING POSTPONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE

Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:14:12 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty has postponed the public hearing to be held on Tuesday, August 14, 2007 regarding recent underwriting decisions made by the State Farm companies conducting business in Florida. Read More...

OIR SCHEDULES MULTIPLE PUBLIC HEARINGS ON TRUE-UP FILINGS

Tue, 07 Aug 2007 18:01:07 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has scheduled public hearings on the "true-up" rate filings submitted by Metropolitan Casualty Insurance Company (Metropolitan Casualty), Hartford Insurance Group (Hartford), IDS Property and Casualty Insurance Company (IDS), AMEX Insurance Company (AMEX), Capitol Preferred Insurance Company (Capitol Preferred), Sentry Mutual Insurance Company (Sentry Mutual), and Owners Insurance Group (Owners). Read More...

COMMISSIONER MCCARTY SUBPOENAS STATE FARM FOR PUBLIC HEARING ON POLICIES AND RATES

Tue, 07 Aug 2007 16:50:00 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty issued subpoenas to State Farm Florida Insurance Company, State Farm Florida Fire and Casualty Insurance Company and State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, directing the three Florida subsidiaries to appear in a public hearing in Tallahassee. Read More...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ANNOUNCES A LONG-TERM CARE PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM

Fri, 27 Jul 2007 16:19:10 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation today announced the adoption of standards applicable to new and existing long-term care insurance policies under the new Long-Term Care Partnership Program, effective July 29, 2007. Read More...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION DENIES FLORIDA FARM BUREAU’S REQUEST FOR RATE INCREASE

Fri, 20 Jul 2007 14:52:52 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty announced today that the Office of Insurance Regulation is denying Florida Farm Bureau's request to raise its rates by 30.3%. Read More...

COMMISSIONER MCCARTY ORDERS WORKERS’ COMPENSATION INSURERS TO REFUND OVER $13 MILLION TO CUSTOMERS

Thu, 19 Jul 2007 18:56:36 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty issued a Consent Order today requiring The Chubb Group of companies to refund over $13 million in excess profits to its customers. Read More...

FLORIDA HEALTH INSURANCE ADVISORY BOARD TO HOST PUBLIC MEETING ON HEALTH CARE

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 20:26:07 GMT

The Florida Health Insurance Advisory Board (Board) has scheduled a public meeting to discuss critical issues for the Florida health care insurance market. Read More...

COMMISSIONER MCCARTY ISSUES CEASE AND DESIST ORDER TO UNLICENSED VIATICAL

Fri, 06 Jul 2007 15:52:31 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty issued a Cease and Desist Order to Great West Growth, LLC of Minneapolis, Minnesota ordering Great West Growth to cease operating as a viatical settlement provider in Florida. Read More...

PUBLIC HEARING SET FOR FLORIDA FARM BUREAU RATE FILING

Wed, 27 Jun 2007 16:35:52 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has scheduled a public hearing for a rate filing submitted by Florida Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Company and Florida Farm Bureau General Insurance Company. Read More...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ANNOUNCES STAFF CHANGES

Fri, 22 Jun 2007 15:30:34 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced new staff changes for the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation. Read More...

COMMISSIONER MCCARTY ORDERS INSURER TO REFUND UP TO $43.2 MILLION TO CUSTOMERS

Fri, 15 Jun 2007 19:45:55 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty issued a Consent Order requiring United Property & Casualty Insurance Company to refund millions of dollars in unapproved homeowners' insurance rate increases. Read More...

COMMISSIONER HAILS SUPREME COURT DECISION ON CREDIT SCORING

Tue, 12 Jun 2007 18:26:12 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty hailed the United States Supreme Court's recent ruling on insurers' use of credit scoring. The litigation involved two national auto insurers, Safeco Insurance Company of America, and GEICO General Insurance Company. The case alleged that insurers used credit reports and took "adverse action" on policyholders without giving proper notice. Read More...

COMMISSIONER WELCOMES EIGHT NEW PROPERTY & CASUALTY INSURERS TO FLORIDA

Mon, 04 Jun 2007 16:24:30 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation finished a busy week before hurricane season finalizing two applications bringing the total to eight new insurers entering the property and casualty insurance marketplace in Florida since January 1, 2007. Read More...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION RELEASES STUDY OF APPURTENANT STRUCTURES

Fri, 11 May 2007 19:30:58 GMT

The Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today issued a final report titled, "Evaluation and Report on the Insurability of Attached and Free Standing Structures." Read More...

OFFICE MOVES TO SHUT-DOWN VIATICAL PROVIDER FOR DISHONEST PRACTICES

Thu, 10 May 2007 20:43:28 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today issued a Notice and Order to Show Cause to Coventry First LLC alleging violations of the Florida Insurance Code and for "engaging in fraudulent or dishonest practices." Read More...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION APPROVES CITIZENS’ SINKHOLE FILING

Wed, 09 May 2007 19:36:35 GMT

The Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) issued an order approving form filings for Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, the state's insurer of last resort. The filings would exclude sinkhole coverage from Citizens’ base policy for all 67 counties. Read More...

FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMISSION APPROVES RULES PRESENTED BY THE OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION

Tue, 01 May 2007 20:29:49 GMT

The Financial Services Commission (FSC) today took further steps to implement the insurance reforms Governor Charlie Crist has called for and the House and Senate passed into law during the January special session. Read More...

- REVISED - COMMISSIONER MCCARTY URGES FLORIDIANS TO PURCHASE FLOOD INSURANCE

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 14:55:37 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty urged Floridians to purchase flood insurance to protect their homes. McCarty's warning comes on the eve of the 2007 hurricane season which officially begins June 1. The Commissioner also wants Floridians to be aware that there is a standard 30-day waiting period before coverage takes effect. Read More...

STATEMENT FROM COMMISSIONER MCCARTY ON INAPPROPRIATE USE OF STATE RESOURCES

Thu, 19 Apr 2007 19:50:15 GMT

Commissioner Kevin McCarty today accepted the resignation of his Communications Director Bob Lotane following allegations of unauthorized use of a state-owned computer by an employee of the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office).

- CONSUMER ALERT - FLORIDIANS ALERTED TO BEWARE OF UNAUTHORIZED LIFE INSURANCE AND ANNUITY ENTITY

Fri, 13 Apr 2007 14:04:46 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today issued an alert to Floridians to beware of an unauthorized entity that is marketing a Charitable Gift Annuity to Florida consumers by convincing them to replace their existing annuities or cash value life insurance policies. Read More...

OFFICE ANNOUNCES ADOPTION OF THE HOME STRUCTURE RATING SYSTEM (HSRS)

Wed, 04 Apr 2007 17:22:14 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has issued a report officially recommending the Home Structure Rating System (HSRS).

REPORT RELEASED ON USE OF OCCUPATION AND EDUCATION AS FACTORS IN DETERMINING RATES AND UNDERWRITING

Mon, 02 Apr 2007 14:02:45 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today issued a report analyzing the insurance industry’s use of occupation and education for the underwriting and rating of auto insurance policies. The report finds the use of these practices unintentionally harms minorities and low-income individuals in determining auto insurance premiums and insurance eligibility.

PUBLIC HEARING SET FOR NATIONWIDE RATE FILING

Fri, 30 Mar 2007 20:16:03 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has scheduled a public hearing on a rate filing submitted by Nationwide Insurance Company of Florida (Nationwide). Read More...

MCCARTY TESTIFIES ON CAPITOL HILL ON FEDERAL ROLE IN NATURAL DISASTER RECOVERY AND INSURING AGAINST NATURAL DISASTERS

Tue, 27 Mar 2007 20:23:36 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty testified today before a subcommittee of the U.S. House of Representatives about methods to address the availability and affordability of insurance for natural disasters. The Subcommittee on Housing and Community Opportunity also examined what, if any, role the federal government should play in insuring against natural disasters.

MCCARTY RECOMMENDS DELINQUENCY PROCEEDINGS FOR ST. PETERSBURG HEALTH INSURER

Mon, 26 Mar 2007 12:20:19 GMT

Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty advised Florida’s Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink today that the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has determined grounds exist for the initiation of delinquency proceedings against Universal Health Care Insurance Company (UHCIC).

FLORIDIANS CAN NOW MONITOR THE IMPACT OF THE NEW PROPERTY INSURANCE REFORM LAW

Thu, 15 Mar 2007 20:28:32 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today announced it has added a new page to its website that allows Floridians to view adjustments to their premiums based on recent insurer filings. Read More...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION SUBMITS REPORT ON FREEDOM TO TRAVEL LAW

Fri, 02 Mar 2007 18:43:28 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today submitted a report to legislative leaders detailing how life and health insurers are complying with the new law regarding use of lawful past travel or future travel plans in insurance sales. Read More...

MCCARTY RELEASES RATE REDUCTIONS TO BE ADOPTED BY FLORIDA PROPERTY INSURERS

Thu, 01 Mar 2007 16:59:03 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today released the property insurance discounts that insurers are required to pass along to policyholders. Read More...

- Media Advisory - PRESS CONFERENCE SCHEDULED TOMORROW ON RELEASE OF DISCOUNT SAVINGS FACTOR

Wed, 28 Feb 2007 18:02:57 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty will be releasing property insurance discounts insurers are required to pass along to policyholders tomorrow during a press conference in Tallahassee. Read More...

COMMISSIONER SIGNS ORDER ADVISING INSURANCE COMPANIES TO FILE RATES INCLUDING SAVINGS FACTOR

Mon, 19 Feb 2007 21:49:43 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today signed an order advising residential insurers to make rate filings to include the new discount factor mandated by legislation passed during the recent special session. Read More...

COMMISSIONER APPROVES FIRST PROPERTY INSURANCE RATE REDUCTION IN WAKE OF NEW INSURANCE REFORMS

Fri, 16 Feb 2007 20:25:13 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today approved the first filing with proposed rate cuts in response to the recently enacted insurance reform law. American Strategic Insurance Company (ASI) was approved for a statewide average rate reduction of 11.4 percent to become effective on March 1st for new customers and on May 1, 2007, for renewal business. Read more...

INSURANCE COMMISSIONER NAMES TEAM TO CALCULATE PROPERTY INSURANCE RATE SAVINGS

Wed, 14 Feb 2007 20:36:00 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today announced that it has contracted with a consulting actuary to calculate property insurance rate reductions for Floridians which are required under legislation recently signed into law by Gov. Charlie Crist. Read More

FLORIDA TO HEAD UP CONFERENCE TO EXPLORE ESTABLISHMENT OF A MULTI-STATE CATASTROPHE PLAN

Wed, 14 Feb 2007 18:34:28 GMT

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) will hold a meeting tomorrow and Friday to explore the creation of a multi-state catastrophe plan. Read More...

PUBLIC HEARING SET FOR LIBERTY AMERICAN RATE FILING

Mon, 12 Feb 2007 17:52:11 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has scheduled a public hearing on a rate filing submitted by Liberty American Insurance Company (Liberty American), Liberty American Select Insurance Company (Liberty American Select) and Philadelphia Indemnity Insurance Company (Philadelphia). Read More...

PUBLIC HEARING ON USE OF OCCUPATION AND EDUCATION AS FACTORS IN DETERMINING RATES AND UNDERWRITING

Fri, 09 Feb 2007 21:22:23 GMT

McCarty opened the hearing by asserting, “Florida has an incredibly rich and diverse racial and ethnic mix. Many of our minority or low income residents are beginning to work their way up the economic ladder. We do not want to make that climb tougher by penalizing these citizens due to their place on that ladder.”

- MEDIA ADVISORY - PUBLIC HEARING ON USE OF OCCUPATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL INFORMATION BY INSURANCE COMPANIES TO SET RATES

Wed, 07 Feb 2007 18:04:03 GMT

The Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) will hold a public hearing on the use of occupation and education as underwriting factors by insurance companies. Read More...

MCCARTY ORDERS PRESCRIPTION DRUG REFILL STATUTE SUSPENDED DUE TO CENTRAL FLORIDA TORNADOS

Mon, 05 Feb 2007 14:30:56 GMT

TALLAHASSEE (02/04/2007) Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today reminded Floridians that statutes governing prescription refills are suspended effective February 2, 2007 due to a state of emergency declared because of the tornados which struck central Florida. Therefore, consumers can obtain a 30-day prescription refill, regardless of the date of the most recent refill to provide an adequate supply in the event they have to evacuate their homes. Read more...

MCCARTY ISSUES ORDER PROHIBITING CANCELLATION OF INSURANCE POLICIES FOR VICTIMS OF TORNADOS

Mon, 05 Feb 2007 14:12:55 GMT

TALLAHASSEE (02/03/2007) Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty has issued an emergency order prohibiting insurance companies from canceling personal lines insurance policies for victims of Friday night’s tornados in central Florida. The order also prohibits insurers from canceling or non-renewing a policy solely because of claims resulting from the February tornados and extends deadlines for payment of insurance premiums and other required correspondence. Read more...

OFFICE ORDERS CITIZENS RATE ROLLBACK, SINKHOLE DISCOUNTS

Wed, 31 Jan 2007 21:09:36 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty has issued an order rescinding Citizens Property Insurance Corporation’s approved rates that would have become effective January 1, 2007, and further ordered Citizens to rollback rates to December 31, 2006 levels. Read More...

PUBLIC HEARING SET FOR ARBITRATION ON HOMEWISE INSURANCE RATES

Thu, 25 Jan 2007 16:31:19 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has scheduled an arbitration hearing to review a filing submitted by Homewise Insurance Company (Homewise) in July, 2006. Read More...

STATEMENT FROM INSURANCE COMMISSIONER KEVIN MCCARTY ON INSURANCE REFORMS SIGNED INTO LAW

Thu, 25 Jan 2007 16:15:46 GMT

Gov. Charlie Crist today signed into law a comprehensive insurance reform bill designed to make property insurance more affordable and to provide important consumer protections. Read More...

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE RATE HEARINGS SCHEDULED AT REQUEST OF THE CONSUMER ADVOCATE

Wed, 24 Jan 2007 17:25:43 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has scheduled public hearings to review medical malpractice rates at the request of the Florida’s Insurance Consumer Advocate Steve Burgess. Read More...

PUBLIC HEARING SCHEDULED ON USE OF OCCUPATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL INFORMATION BY INSURANCE COMPANIES TO SET RATES

Fri, 12 Jan 2007 19:37:13 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) will hold a public hearing on the use of occupation and education as underwriting factors by insurance companies. McCarty said he is concerned that the use of such information, primarily by automobile insurance companies, discriminates against minority policyholders who end up paying higher premiums regardless of their driving records.

MCCARTY WELCOMES DECISION ON CHALLENGE TO INSURANCE CREDIT SCORING RULE

Thu, 04 Jan 2007 21:04:00 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty, today, welcomed a decision by the Division of Administrative Hearings regarding a challenge to the credit scoring rule promulgated by the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office). The rule was filed in March of 2005 and approved by Gov. Bush and the Florida Cabinet. It implements section 626.9741 F.S. which was passed by the Legislature and signed into law in June of 2003. Read more...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION RELEASES REPORT ANALYZING WORKERS’ COMPENSATION MARKET

Fri, 29 Dec 2006 20:47:00 GMT

Pursuant to Section 627.211(6), Florida Statutes, the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today released its annual report to the Legislature evaluating the vitality of the workers’ compensation insurance marketplace in Florida. The report contains an analysis of the availability and affordability of workers’ compensation coverage. Read More...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION APPROVES REDUCED USAA HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE RATE INCREASE

Thu, 21 Dec 2006 16:05:49 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today approved a revised rate filing submitted by United Services Automobile Association (USAA) and USAA Casualty Insurance Company (USAA Casualty). Read More...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION APPROVES REDUCED ALLSTATE HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE RATE INCREASE

Tue, 19 Dec 2006 15:34:05 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today approved revised rate filings submitted by Allstate Floridian Insurance Company (Allstate Floridian) and Allstate Floridian Indemnity Company (Allstate Indemnity). Read More...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION RELEASES REPORT ON DISCOUNT MEDICAL PLAN OPERATIONS IN FLORIDA

Fri, 15 Dec 2006 16:30:58 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today released a market report analyzing Discount Medical Plan Operations (DMPOs) operating in Florida. The report follows last year’s veto of legislation that sought to weaken the Office’s regulatory authority over the DMPO industry. The DMPO industry has indicated it will propose similar legislation in 2007. Read more...

PUBLIC HEARING SET IN PASCO FOR CITIZENS SINKHOLE RATES

Fri, 15 Dec 2006 16:39:10 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has scheduled a public hearing on rate filings submitted by Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (Citizens) proposing a decrease in sinkholes rates statewide. The hearing for these rate filings will be held in Pasco County at Spartan Manor, 6121 Massachusetts Avenue, New Port Richey. The hearing will begin at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, December 18, 2006. Read more...

PUBLIC HEARING SET FOR RATE FILINGS FROM SOUTHERN OAK INSURANCE COMPANY

Tue, 12 Dec 2006 15:55:21 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has scheduled a public hearing on rate filings submitted by Southern Oak Insurance Company. Read More...

OIR RELEASES 2006 REPORT ON MEDICAL MALPRACTICE MARKET

Wed, 29 Nov 2006 21:11:32 GMT

Tallahassee (November 29, 2006) – The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has released its 2006 annual report on the medical malpractice insurance market in Florida. Read More...

CITIZENS FOR A BETTER CITIZENS WEBSITE LAUNCHED TO SOLICIT SUGGESTIONS FROM CONSUMERS

Tue, 28 Nov 2006 13:06:17 GMT

TALLAHASSEE (11/27/2006) – Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today unveiled a new website that will allow interested parties to submit suggestions to Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (Citizens). The website is intended to run in conjunction with three public hearings Citizens is required to hold around the state. Read more...

CITIZENS PROPERTY INSURANCE CORPORATION 2005 DEFICIT ASSESSMENT APPROVED

Mon, 27 Nov 2006 16:05:48 GMT

TALLAHASSEE (11/22/2006) – Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today approved a $163 million regular assessment filed by Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (Citizens) to cover the deficit in its high risk account for 2005. All assessable property insurers are required to pay the assessment to Citizens within 30 days of receipt of an invoice from Citizens. Read more...

PUBLIC HEARINGS SET FOR RATE FILINGS FROM FOREMOST AND UNITED PROPERTY AND CASUALTY

Thu, 09 Nov 2006 15:50:12 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has scheduled public hearings on rate filings submitted by Foremost Insurance Company, Foremost Property and Casualty Insurance Company, and United Property and Casualty Insurance Company (United). Read More...

PUBLIC HEARINGS SET ON RATE FILINGS FROM ST. JOHNS INSURANCE COMPANY AND THE HANOVER GROUP

Tue, 07 Nov 2006 16:22:20 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has scheduled public hearings on rate filings submitted by St. Johns Insurance Company (St. Johns), The Hanover American Insurance Company (The Hanover Group), The Hanover Insurance Company (The Hanover Group), and Massachusetts Bay Insurance Company (The Hanover Group). Read More...

OFFICE COMPLETES HEARING ON ALLSTATE HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE RATE INCREASE

Thu, 02 Nov 2006 21:40:28 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation held a public hearing today on rate filings submitted by Allstate Floridian Insurance Company (Allstate Floridian) and Allstate Floridian Indemnity Company (Allstate Floridian Indemnity), at The Capitol, in Tallahassee. Read More...

OFFICE DENIES PROPOSED RATE HIKE FOR USAA INSURANCE COMPANY

Thu, 02 Nov 2006 18:30:03 GMT

TALLAHASSEE (11/2/2006) – Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that he has issued a Notice of Intent to Deny a request by United Services Automobile Association Insurance Company (USAA) to increase residential property insurance rates by a statewide average of 40 percent. Read more...

PUBLIC HEARING SET FOR RATE FILINGS BY ALLSTATE FLORIDIAN COMPANIES

Wed, 01 Nov 2006 18:08:36 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has scheduled a public hearing tomorrow on rate filings submitted by Allstate Floridian Insurance Company and Allstate Floridian Indemnity Company. Read More...

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION FILING APPROVED: RATES SET TO DROP FOR FOURTH STRAIGHT YEAR

Tue, 31 Oct 2006 19:32:24 GMT

TALLAHASSEE (10/31/2006) – Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty has approved an amended rate filing submitted by the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI). The action will lead to a decrease in workers’ compensation insurance rates by a state wide average of -15.7 percent effective January 1, 2007.

MCCARTY ORDERS FLORIDA PENINSULA TO CUT ITS RATES AND REVISE ITS BUSINESS PLAN

Wed, 25 Oct 2006 19:36:07 GMT

TALLAHASSEE (10/25/2006) – Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today ordered Florida Peninsula Insurance Company (Florida Peninsula) to reduce the rates it has been charging policyholders and to revise its business plan. Florida Peninsula’s book of business contains wind-only property insurance policies that it took out of Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (Citizens). These policies are primarily located in southeast Florida and in the Florida Keys. Read more...

PUBLIC HEARING SET FOR RATE FILINGS BY ALLSTATE FLORIDIAN COMPANIES

Mon, 23 Oct 2006 18:50:57 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has scheduled a public hearing on rate filings submitted by Allstate Floridian Insurance Company and Allstate Floridian Indemnity Company. Read More...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION DENIES PROPOSED RATE HIKE FOR NATIONWIDE INSURANCE COMPANY

Wed, 18 Oct 2006 17:40:07 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that he has issued a notice of intent to deny a request by Nationwide Insurance Company of Florida (Nationwide) to increase residential property insurance rates by a statewide average of 71.5 percent. Read More...

MCCARTY ORDERS INCREASED DROP ON RATES FILED FOR WORKERS’ COMPENSATION INSURANCE

Tue, 17 Oct 2006 16:23:14 GMT

TALLAHASSEE (10/17/2006) – Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today disapproved the recent rate filing submitted by the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI). NCCI’s filing called for a statewide average rate decrease in workers’ compensation insurance rates of 13.3 percent, which was primarily due to a significant drop in claims frequency and a reduction in the cost of claims. Read more...

INSURANCE COMMISSIONER DIRECTS CITIZENS TO INSURE FLORIDIANS BEING CHARGED UNAPPROVED RATES

Wed, 11 Oct 2006 19:06:45 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today ordered Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (Citizens) to begin offering residential property insurance coverage to Floridians whose policies had been taken out of Citizens by private insurers but who are being charged unapproved rates. Read More...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ACTUARY DISCUSSES THE UNIQUE RESERVING CHALLENGES FOLLOWING HURRICANES

Fri, 06 Oct 2006 18:50:19 GMT

Joseph A. Boor, FCAS, reserving actuary for the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation, recently presented actuaries attending a casualty loss reserve seminar with a unique discussion on the reserving challenges following catastrophic hurricanes and how to solve them. Read More...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION DISAPPROVES INSURER RATE INCREASES

Tue, 03 Oct 2006 14:35:14 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation has issued Notices of Intent to disapprove recent rate filings from Cincinnati Insurance Companies and Home Pointe Insurance Company.
Read More...

PUBLIC HEARINGS SET FOR RATE FILINGS BY UNIVERSAL, SUNSHINE STATE

Mon, 02 Oct 2006 15:44:13 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has scheduled public hearings on rate filings submitted by Universal Property and Casualty Insurance Company (Universal) and Sunshine State Insurance Company (Sunshine State). Read More...

INSURANCE COMMISSIONER: CITIZENS NEEDS TO CONDUCT NATIONWIDE SEARCH FOR NEW PRESIDENT

Fri, 29 Sep 2006 16:33:56 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today requested that the Citizens Property Insurance Corporation Board of Directors conduct a nationwide search for a new President to replace current President Bob Ricker, who has announced his resignation. Read More...

CITIZENS PROPERTY INSURANCE CORPORATION RATES FINALIZED FOR MONROE COUNTY

Fri, 29 Sep 2006 15:52:23 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today approved property insurance rate changes filed by Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (Citizens) for Monroe County, Florida. Read More...

INSURANCE COMMISSIONER ANNOUNCES SENIOR STAFF CHANGE AT OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION

Thu, 28 Sep 2006 18:18:02 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced a senior staff change at the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office). Deputy Commissioner for Property and Casualty Insurance Tom Streukens is leaving the Office to take a position at the Florida Workers’ Compensation Insurance Guaranty Association (FWCIGA). Read More...

FLORIDA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER ANNOUNCES $14 MILLION SETTLEMENT WITH AIG INSURANCE COMPANY

Tue, 26 Sep 2006 17:20:20 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced a multi-million dollar settlement with AIG Insurance Company (AIG) to settle charges that the company failed to justify rates or used excessive and unfairly discriminatory rates on coverage required by the federal Terrorism Risk Insurance Act. Read More...

WORKERS’ COMP INSURANCE HEARING ANNOUNCED – RATES COULD DECLINE

Mon, 25 Sep 2006 19:19:01 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced a public hearing regarding the proposed workers’ compensation insurance rate reduction of 13.3% filed by the National Council on Compensation Insurance, Inc. (NCCI). Read More...

PUBLIC HEARINGS SET FOR RATE FILINGS BY AMERICAN SOUTHERN HOME, SERVICE

Thu, 21 Sep 2006 13:55:34 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has scheduled public hearings on rate filings submitted by American Southern Home Insurance Company and Service Insurance Company. Read More...

WORKERS COMPENSATION INSURANCE CARRIERS ORDERED TO REFUND EXCESSIVE PROFITS

Tue, 19 Sep 2006 15:35:36 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty has ordered five workers’ compensation insurance carriers to return excessive profits. Read More...

- PRESS ADVISORY – NEWS CONFERENCE ON PROPERTY AND CASUALTY JOINT UNDERWRITING ASSOCIATION SCHEDULED

Fri, 15 Sep 2006 16:17:35 GMT

The Board of Directors of the Florida Property and Casualty Joint Underwriting Association (PCJUA) today approved a servicing carrier which will begin appointing agents and accepting applications for commercial non-residential insurance coverage for Florida businesses unable to find coverage in the private market. Read More...

NEW STATE COMMERCIAL INSURANCE ORGANIZATION GIVEN THE GREEN LIGHT TO BEGIN OPERATIONS

Fri, 15 Sep 2006 15:39:20 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today approved a servicing carrier for the newly formed Florida Property and Casualty Joint Underwriting Association (PCJUA), along with the contract the carrier has signed with the PCJUA Board of Directors. Read More...

UNAUTHORIZED TRAVEL PROTECTION ENTITY ORDERED TO CEASE BUSINESS IN FLORIDA

Thu, 21 Sep 2006 16:27:12 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty has ordered Trip Assured, Inc. (Trip Assured) and its president Edward M. Johnson to immediately cease all insurance-related activities in Florida. Read More...

PUBLIC HEARINGS SET FOR RATE FILINGS BY NATIONWIDE AND USAA

Wed, 13 Sep 2006 20:53:06 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has scheduled public hearings on rate filings submitted by Nationwide Insurance Company of Florida, United Services Automobile Association, USAA Casualty Insurance Company, and USAA General Indemnity Company...

COMMISSIONER MCCARTY TESTIFIES BEFORE THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS ON COASTAL INSURANCE MARKETS

Wed, 13 Sep 2006 20:51:57 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today testified at the Capitol, in Washington D.C., before the Subcommittee on Capital Markets, Insurance and Government Sponsored Enterprises of the House Committee on Financial Services...

PUBLIC HEARINGS SET FOR RATE FILINGS FROM FOUR INSURANCE COMPANIES

Tue, 12 Sep 2006 18:51:26 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has scheduled public hearings on rate filings submitted by Coral Insurance Company, Cincinnati Insurance companies , Home Pointe Insurance Company, and Safeway Property Insurance Company...

- Press Advisory - BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF PROPERTY AND CASUALTY JOINT UNDERWRITING ASSOCIATION TO HOLD EMERGENCY MEETING

Tue, 12 Sep 2006 17:48:46 GMT

The Board of Governors of the new Property and Casualty Joint Underwriting Association (PCJUA) will hold an emergency meeting...

OVER $5 MILLION IN COMMERCIAL INSURANCE REFUNDS TO BE RETURNED TO FLORIDA BUSINESSES

Fri, 08 Sep 2006 18:21:12 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today ordered $5.3 million in premium overcharges to be returned to commercial policyholders in the state. Read More...

INITIAL DISCOUNT MEDICAL PLAN EXAMINATIONS SHOW PROBLEMS

Fri, 08 Sep 2006 18:19:44 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today finalized its first three examinations of Discount Medical Plan Organizations (DMPO). Read More...

SINKHOLE FACTOR ADOPTION WILL LEAD TO CONSUMER SAVINGS

Thu, 07 Sep 2006 20:09:50 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today adopted a “presumed factor of savings” for modifications made in SB 1980 which passed during the 2006 Legislative Session. Read More...

CONSUMER ALERT: OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ADDS VALUABLE LINKS TO ITS WEBSITE

Thu, 07 Sep 2006 15:50:15 GMT

The Office of Insurance Regulation has added some new pages to its website (http://www.floir.com) that may be of interest to consumers, media and industry. Read More...

PUBLIC HEARINGS SET FOR RATE FILINGS FROM FOUR INSURANCE COMPANIES

Wed, 06 Sep 2006 18:24:49 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has scheduled public hearings on rate filings submitted by Companion Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Vanguard Fire and Casualty Company, Omega Insurance Company, and Tower Hill affiliate insurance companies. Read More...

BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF PROPERTY AND CASUALTY JOINT UNDERWRITING ASSOCIATION TO HOLD MEETING

Fri, 01 Sep 2006 18:48:31 GMT

The Board of Governors of the new Property and Casualty Joint Underwriting Association (PCJUA) will hold a meeting Wednesday in Tallahassee concerning the activation of the new PCJUA. Read More...

PROPOSED WORKERS’ COMPENSATION INSURANCE RATES WOULD DROP FOR FOURTH CONSECUTIVE YEAR

Tue, 29 Aug 2006 17:05:29 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced he has received the latest rate filing for workers’ compensation insurance rates due to become effective next year. Read More...

PRESCRIPTION DRUG REFILL RULES SUSPENDED DUE TO TROPICAL STORM ERNESTO

Tue, 29 Aug 2006 16:17:33 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today reminded Floridians that statutes governing prescription refills are suspended due to a state of emergency declared because of Tropical Storm Ernesto. Read More...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION TO HOLD DISCOUNT MEDICAL PLAN FORUM IN MIAMI

Thu, 24 Aug 2006 16:45:50 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) will hold a public forum on Discount Medical Plans (DMP) this Friday, in Miami. Read More...

PUBLIC HEARINGS SET FOR RATE FILINGS FROM FOUR INSURANCE COMPANIES

Tue, 22 Aug 2006 19:58:44 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has scheduled public hearings on rate filings submitted by First Home Insurance Company, Metropolitan Casualty Insurance Company, Southern Fidelity Insurance Company, and First Community Insurance Company. Hearings for these rate filings will be held at the Capitol Building, in Tallahassee. They will take place in the Cabinet Meeting Room, Lower Level, on August 25, 2006 and on August 31, 2006.

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION TO HOLD A PUBLIC FORUM ON DISCOUNT MEDICAL PLANS

Tue, 22 Aug 2006 16:20:47 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) announced today it will hold a public forum on Discount Medical Plans (DMP) at the Conrad Miami Hotel on August 25th. The forum is being held to solicit input from stakeholders and the public to assess whether the regulation of Discount Medical Plans is meeting its objective of providing a healthy Discount Medical Plan market while also protecting consumers. Findings from the forum will be incorporated into a comprehensive study of the DMP market commissioned by the Office in collaboration with Georgetown University.

INSURANCE COMMISSIONER TO URGE COMMISSION TO END PANHANDLE CARVE-OUT FROM STATE BUILDING CODE

Fri, 18 Aug 2006 20:45:10 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty will testify to the Florida Building Commission next week to urge an end to the panhandle carve-out from the most recent and stricter state building codes.

PUBLIC MEETING TO BE HELD CONCERNING NEW COMMERCIAL JOINT UNDERWRITING ASSOCIATION

Fri, 18 Aug 2006 16:40:51 GMT

The first meeting of the Board of Governors of the Property and Casualty Joint Underwriting Association (PCJUA) is scheduled for next Friday, at 10:00 a.m., in Tallahassee. Read More...

MCCARTY ANNOUNCES REQUIREMENTS TO TRIGGER COMMERCIAL INSURANCE UNIT HAVE BEEN MET

Fri, 18 Aug 2006 14:44:25 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty announced today that the requirements to activate a state run commercial insurance unit have been met. Read More...

MCCARTY REJECTS RATE REQUEST AND ORDERS CITIZENS INSURANCE TO REDUCE RATES IN MONROE COUNTY

Thu, 17 Aug 2006 19:17:27 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today rejected a request by Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (Citizens) to increase rates in Monroe County and ordered it to reduce homeowners insurance rates for the area. Read More...

CREATION OF A NEW STATE-RUN COMMERCIAL INSURANCE UNIT GIVEN GREEN LIGHT BY GOVERNOR AND CABINET

Tue, 15 Aug 2006 15:39:45 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today presented a plan to address a commercial insurance crisis facing the state. Read More...

PUBLIC HEARING SCHEDULED IN BRADENTON ON INSURANCE PROBLEMS FACED BY FLORIDA BUSINESSES

Mon, 07 Aug 2006 20:02:13 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced a public hearing will be held in the Bradenton area to compile testimony on commercial insurance problems faced by Florida businesses. Read More...

CONSUMER ALERT: PUBLIC HEARING VIDEO NOW AVAILABLE ON OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION WEBSITE

Fri, 04 Aug 2006 19:46:47 GMT

The public hearing held yesterday, in Tallahassee, for a rate filing made by First Floridian Auto and Home Insurance Company can be viewed on the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (FLOIR) website. Read More...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ANNOUNCES MULTI-STATE SETTLEMENT TOTALING $70 MILLION TO BENEFIT MILITARY PERSONNEL

Fri, 04 Aug 2006 19:20:27 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty announced today a multi-state settlement concerning the improper sale of insurance and investment products to U.S. military personnel. Read More...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION HOLDS HEARING ON MONROE COUNTY RATE REQUEST IN KEY WEST

Thu, 03 Aug 2006 13:44:26 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation has completed a public rate hearing in Key West on a request by Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (Citizens) to increase property insurance rates in Monroe County. Read More...

PUBLIC HEARING SET FOR FLORIDA FARM BUREAU RATE FILING

Wed, 02 Aug 2006 18:39:56 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation has scheduled a public hearing for August 16 in Gainesville for input from the public concerning a rate filing.... Read More

INSURANCE COMMISSIONER UNVEILS PROPOSALS TO HELP BUSINESSES THAT CANNOT FIND PROPERTY INSURANCE

Tue, 01 Aug 2006 19:06:06 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today presented a draft plan to help Florida businesses that cannot find adequate insurance coverage to protect their commercial property. Read More...

PUBLIC HEARING LOCATION CHANGED FOR CITIZENS RATE FILING IN MONROE COUNTY

Tue, 25 Jul 2006 14:28:55 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation has scheduled a public hearing for August 1 in Key West for input from the public concerning Citizens Property Insurance Corporation’s (Citizens) actuarial rate filings for Monroe County.

COMMISSIONER MCCARTY ASKS CITIZENS PROPERTY INSURANCE CORPORATION TO REVISIT BUILDERS RISK DECISION

Fri, 21 Jul 2006 12:18:59 GMT

Florida’s Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today requested that Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (Citizens) revisit its earlier decision to stop writing builders risk insurance policies in Florida.

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ANNOUNCES NEW FORMAT FOR SELECTED PUBLIC HEARINGS

Wed, 19 Jul 2006 19:54:31 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that a public hearing on a rate filing by First Floridian Auto and Home Insurance Company (First Floridian) will be held at 1:00 p.m., August 3rd, in Tallahassee. First Floridian is requesting a statewide aggregate rate increase of 24.2%, which is subject to a public hearing under Section 627.0629(7), Florida Statutes.

STATEMENT FROM INSURANCE COMMISSIONER KEVIN MCCARTY REGARDING ACTION ON STATE FARM FLORIDA INSURANCE COMPANY RATE REQUEST

Tue, 18 Jul 2006 20:40:19 GMT

On May 13, 2006 State Farm Florida Insurance Company (State Farm) submitted two rate filings requesting a combined effective rate of 79 percent to the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office). The Office informed State Farm that the rate was unsupported and informed the company of its intention to disapprove the filings.

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION RELEASES TITLE INSURANCE STUDY AND WILL BEGIN RATE REVIEW

Mon, 17 Jul 2006 16:23:08 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today announced the completion of a multi-faceted review of title insurance regulation in the state. The Office said it would use the information from the study to begin a full review of title insurance rates charged in Florida. The 2006 Legislature funded both the title insurance study and the review of premiums charged for title insurance and related services.

PUBLIC HEARING SET IN MONROE COUNTY FOR CITIZENS RATE FILING

Mon, 17 Jul 2006 14:53:04 GMT

INSURANCE COMMISSIONER TO CONSULT FLORIDA SENATORS AND REPRESENTATIVES IN WASHINGTON

Wed, 12 Jul 2006 20:29:15 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty traveled to Washington D.C. today to consult with Sens. Bill Nelson and Mel Martinez and with two of Florida’s U.S. Representatives on a variety of issues important to the Florida insurance market. Many issues presently before the U.S. Congress would have a significant impact on both state and national insurance markets.

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION TO SOLICIT FEEDBACK FROM BUSINESSES ON INSURANCE DIFFICULTIES

Wed, 12 Jul 2006 16:35:15 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today announced it will be conducting an on-line survey to gauge the problems businesses in the state are encountering accessing commercial insurance coverage. The Office said it has heard from businesses and policymakers from around the state regarding problems with the availability and cost of commercial insurance coverage.

INSURANCE COMMISSIONER MCCARTY CALLS FOR TOUGHER BUILDING CODES FOR PANHANDLE

Wed, 12 Jul 2006 13:14:19 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today testified before the Florida Building Commission (FBC) on the need to expand Florida’s tougher building codes to areas of the Panhandle that had been exempted. Read More...

FLORIDA PUBLIC HURRICANE MODEL DATA NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE

Tue, 11 Jul 2006 14:35:18 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty announced that data from the Florida Public Hurricane Model (FPHM) will be available on the Office of Insurance Regulation’s (Office) website beginning today. Read More...

INSURANCE COMMISSIONER TO TESTIFY ON BUILDING CODE EXEMPTIONS

Fri, 07 Jul 2006 19:35:07 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty will testify at the next meeting of the Florida Building Commission regarding the exemption of the northwest Panhandle from the statewide building codes. Read More...

NEWS FROM THE OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION - NATIONWIDE INSURANCE COMPANY REQUESTS INCREASE IN RATES

Thu, 06 Jul 2006 13:44:20 GMT

STATEMENT FROM INSURANCE COMMISSIONER KEVIN MCCARTY REGARDING NATIONWIDE INSURANCE COMPANY REQUESTING A STATEWIDE RATE INCREASE OF 71 %

FLORIDA’S INSURANCE COMMISSIONER TESTIFIES TO CONGRESS ON NEED FOR NATIONAL CATASTROPHE PLAN

Wed, 28 Jun 2006 20:07:46 GMT

Florida’s Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today testified to a congressional committee in Washington on the need for a national plan to respond to catastrophic events. Read More...

NEW WEBSITE GIVES SMALL EMPLOYERS THE ABILITY TO COMPARE AND SEARCH HEALTH PLANS

Mon, 26 Jun 2006 18:01:31 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) today launched a website that provides Floridians the ability to compare and search the benefits and premiums for small employer health plans offered in the state. Read More...

LEGISLATION PROVIDING NEW PROTECTIONS FOR PURCHASERS OF LONG-TERM CARE INSURANCE SIGNED

Tue, 20 Jun 2006 18:53:26 GMT

Legislation to provide new protections for long-term care insurance policyholders was signed into law today by Gov. Jeb Bush. Read More...

COMMISSIONER APPROVES EMERGENCY ORDER FOR PRESCRIPTION REFILLS

Tue, 13 Jun 2006 12:59:09 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty approved an emergency order to suspend the operation of certain statutes governing the provision of prescription refills.

COMMISSIONER ANNOUNCES ADOPTION OF NATIONAL CAT COMMISSION RESOLUTION

Mon, 12 Jun 2006 15:06:51 GMT

Washington, D.C. – On Sunday, Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty announced the adoption of a Resolution in Support of a Comprehensive Legislative Solution...

UNLICENSED DISCOUNT MEDICAL PLAN ORDERED TO CEASE OPERATIONS IN FLORIDA

Mon, 05 Jun 2006 12:48:32 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty has ordered a discount medical plan to immediately cease operations in Florida. Read More...

JOINT NATIONAL CATASTROPHE PLAN TO BE PRESENTED TO TWO NATIONAL INSURANCE POLICYMAKING GROUPS

Wed, 31 May 2006 18:57:08 GMT

TALLAHASSEE - The officers of two national insurance policymaking groups today announced a collaboration to create a joint national catastrophe plan. Read More...

FLORIDIANS NO LONGER FACE DISCRIMINATION IN INSURANCE BASED ON TRAVEL PLANS

Wed, 31 May 2006 14:56:00 GMT

TALLAHASSEE – Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced passage of a new rule that will prevent insurance companies from unfairly discriminating against people who travel outside the country. Read More

STATE FARM RATE HEARINGS SET

Tue, 30 May 2006 20:58:53 GMT

Tallahassee - The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation has scheduled rate hearings June 5 in Lake Buena Vista for input from the public concerning rate filings by State Farm Florida Insurance Company...

COMMISSIONER MCCARTY HELPS DEDICATE THE NEWEST “HURRICANE HOUSE” IN BROWARD COUNTY

Fri, 26 May 2006 18:18:38 GMT

TALLAHASSEE – Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty took part yesterday in ceremonies to dedicate the newest hurricane house in Ft. Lauderdale...

INSURANCE COMMISSIONER TO IMPLEMENT RULE TO PREVENT DISCRIMINATION IN PURCHASE OF INSURANCE

Tue, 23 May 2006 19:00:07 GMT

Tallahassee - Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today officially notified all insurers operating in the state of stringent new rules regarding the use of credit scores.

COMMISSIONER APPROVES CITIZENS’ RATE ADJUSTMENTS

Fri, 19 May 2006 20:26:36 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today entered an order approving Citizens Property Insurance Corporation’s top 20 filing and actuarial filing with an exception for Monroe County...

STATEMENT ON STATE FARM RATE REQUEST FROM FLORIDA’S INSURANCE COMMISSIONER KEVIN MCCARTY

Tue, 16 May 2006 15:59:13 GMT

State Farm Florida Insurance Company has filed two property rate requests totaling 71.5 percent...

COMMISSIONER URGES FLORIDIANS TO PURCHASE FLOOD INSURANCE

Wed, 10 May 2006 18:10:05 GMT

Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty urged Floridians to purchase flood insurance to protect their homes...

INSURANCE COMPANIES RATE HEARINGS SET

Wed, 10 May 2006 15:24:34 GMT

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation has scheduled rate hearings May 17 in Jacksonville and May 18 in Orlando for input from the public concerning rate filings by Hanover, Auto-Owners, Amica Mutual and Security First Insurance Companies...

OVER $2 MILLION RETURNED TO FLORIDA POLICYHOLDERS

Mon, 08 May 2006 19:24:33 GMT

Tallahassee – Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has concluded an examination of American Mercury Insurance Company, a homeown...

LEGISLATURE UNANIMOUSLY APPROVES SENIOR PROTECTION BILL

Tue, 02 May 2006 20:52:20 GMT

...

Tallahassee - Florida lawmakers yesterday approved a monumental senior protection bill that provides marketplace reforms that make Long-Term Care Insurance (LTCI) affordable, available, and marketable. House B...

FLORIDA PENINSULA AND UNITED RATE HEARINGS SET

Tue, 02 May 2006 19:55:49 GMT

...ance Company and United Property and Casualty, which are requesting a statewide average increase of 91.8 percent and 51.1 percent. The requested rates are not uniform and some areas are subject to higher or lower rate changes.

...

HARTFORD RATE HEARINGS SCHEDULED

Tue, 02 May 2006 17:11:25 GMT

...nsurance Company of the Midwest, which is requesting a statewide average increase of 21.0 percent for homeowner policies. The requested rate is not uniform and some areas are subject to higher or lower rate changes.

The h...

COMMISSIONER PROVIDES RELIEF TO MONROE COUNTY

Tue, 02 May 2006 12:12:56 GMT

...e highest average rate of the top 20 insurance companies as those rates apply to the high risk account (HRA) for Monroe County. Monroe County is the only county subject to a pilot program implemented by legislation last year. Under that p...

INSURANCE COMMISSIONER MCCARTY POSTS POE COMPANIES’ 2005 ANNUAL STATEMENTS ON THE INTERNET

Thu, 27 Apr 2006 15:57:19 GMT

...urance Regulation posted the 2005 Annual Statements of the three insurance companies in Poe Financial Group on the Office’s website today.

“I wanted everyone to see what my financial solvency people saw in evaluating the...

COMMISSIONER PRAISES LAW REGULATING DISCOUNT MEDICAL PLANS ON EVE OF ANNIVERSARY

Mon, 24 Apr 2006 18:09:05 GMT

...rong>

Tallahassee – Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty praised the effectiveness of the “Affordable Health Care for Floridians Act” passed by the 2004 Florida Legislature, which made Florida the first state to comp...

EXOTIC WARRANTY ORDERED INTO RECEIVERSHIP

Mon, 24 Apr 2006 13:43:34 GMT

...ceivership for purposes of liquidation by Judge Thomas H. Bateman III of the Second Judicial Circuit Court in Leon County and the Florida Department of Financial Services named Receiver.

A Florida corporation since January 2003, Exotic...

OIR SETS ST. JOHN RATE HEARINGS

Mon, 24 Apr 2006 12:15:38 GMT

...g> - The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation will be conducting rate hearings May 4 in Orlando for input from the public concerning rate filings by St. John Insurance Company, which is requesting a statewide average increase of 35.2 percent for ho...

OIR SETS COTTON STATES RATE HEARING

Mon, 24 Apr 2006 12:13:16 GMT

...assee - The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation will be conducting a rate hearing May 3 in Tallahassee for input from the public concerning rate filings by Cotton States Mutual Insurance Company of Florida, which is requesting a statewide...

OIR RELEASES REPORT, SUPPORTS LONG-TERM CARE BILLS

Thu, 20 Apr 2006 18:36:31 GMT

...ffice of Insurance Regulation released the second part of its report about the Long-Term Care Insurance market in Florida and is continuing to work with the Florida Legislature for passage of bills to protect elderly policyholders from skyrocketing r...

COMMISSIONER ENCOURAGES HURRICANE LOSS MITIGATION AROUND FLORIDA

Wed, 19 Apr 2006 13:56:59 GMT

...

TALLAHASSEE – Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty is contacting property insurers and encouraging the companies to participate in a program that focuses on hurricane loss mitigation at local venues around the...

OIR SETS CYPRESS RATE HEARINGS

Tue, 18 Apr 2006 19:08:15 GMT

...The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation will be conducting rate hearings April 25 in Palm Beach Gardens for input from the public concerning rate filings by Cypress Property and Casualty Insurance Company, which is requesting a statewide average i...

OFFICE REMINDS INSURERS IT IS OK TO USE POLICY FORMS IN SPANISH

Thu, 13 Apr 2006 21:10:43 GMT

...>

Tallahassee - The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation issued a formal notice today to all insurance companies licensed in Florida, reminding them that the use of approved translated po...

PUBLIC HURRICANE MODEL ESTIMATES, LOSSES RELEASED

Wed, 12 Apr 2006 19:45:42 GMT

...strong> - A state financed public hurricane model used by the Office of Insurance Regulation to estimate storm losses came closer to actual losses from Hurricane Wilma than many private hurricane models.

Estimates from th...

OIR SETS OMEGA, SOUTHERN OAK RATE HEARINGS

Tue, 11 Apr 2006 20:19:24 GMT

...

Tallahassee - The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation will be conducting rate hearings April 19 in Davie for input from the public concerning rate filings by Omega Insurance Company, which is requesting a s...

SENATE HEALTH CARE COMMITTEE APPROVES LEGISLATION PROTECTING SENIORS

Wed, 05 Apr 2006 13:04:21 GMT

...rong>

Tallahassee- The Senate Health Care Committee unanimously approved a bill Tuesday that protects against large rate increases and assures availability and affordability for senior citizens who purchase long-term...

OFFICE RELEASES HURRICANE CLAIMS REPORT FOR THE 2004-2005 HURRICANE SEASON

Tue, 04 Apr 2006 19:45:10 GMT

...div>

Tallahassee – The Office of Insurance Regulation released a report Tuesday on its Disaster Tracking System Reporting database. The Office conducted a review of claims paid by county, for the 2004-2005 hurricane seasons, bas...

OIR SETS COMPANION RATE HEARING

Tue, 04 Apr 2006 15:04:00 GMT

...div>

Tallahassee - The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation will conduct a hearing April 12 in Sarasota for input from the public concerning Companion Property and Casualty Insurance Co...

OIR SETS FEDERATED NATIONAL RATE HEARINGS

Tue, 04 Apr 2006 12:54:13 GMT

...roposed statewide average increase of 14.6 percent. The requested rates are not uniform and some areas are subject to higher and lower rate adjustments.

The hearings will be Wednesday at noon and 6:00 p.m. at the Signatur...

SENIOR PROTECTION BILL ADVANCES IN FLORIDA HOUSE

Fri, 31 Mar 2006 21:01:26 GMT

...>

Tallahassee- The House Insurance Committee unanimously approved a bill Thursday that provides strong protection against large rate increases and assures availability and affordability for senior citizens who purcha...

OIR APPROVES AMENDED PLANS OF OPERATION FOR TWO ENTITIES

Tue, 28 Mar 2006 16:45:45 GMT

...

Tallahassee – Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty and the Office of Insurance Regulation have reviewed and approved substantive amendments to the plans of operation for Florida Comprehensive Health Association and Flor...

SENATE COMMITTEE APPROVES LONG-TERM CARE INSURANCE LEGISLATION

Wed, 22 Mar 2006 20:44:37 GMT

...

Tallahassee – The Florida Senate Banking and Insurance Committee approved legislation that, if signed into law, will help ensure the viability of long-term care insurance in Florida.

Senate Bill 229...

SENATE COMMITTEE PASSES “FREEDOM TO TRAVEL” BILL

Tue, 21 Mar 2006 21:53:16 GMT

.../div>

Tallahassee – The Florida Senate Banking and Insurance Committee Tuesday passed the “Freedom to Travel” Bill that, if signed into law, will prohibit unfair discrimination based on a consumer’s past or future lawful travel...

INFORMATION FROM THE OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION

Thu, 16 Mar 2006 15:33:06 GMT

...>

Tallahassee – The Florida Cabinet gave its approval today for the Office of Insurance Regulation to conduct a Public Hearing to allow public input for a rule prohibiting...

OIR SCHEDULES RATE HEARINGS FOR TOWER HILL SELECT INSURANCE COMPANY AND LIBERTY MUTUAL FIRE INSURANCE COMPANY

Fri, 10 Mar 2006 21:54:34 GMT

...div>

Tallahassee - The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation will conduct public hearings in Davie concerning rate filings by Liberty Mutual Fire Insurance Company and Tower Hill Select Insurance Co...

OIR RELEASES REPORT FROM THE TASK FORCE ON LONG-TERM SOLUTIONS FOR FLORIDA'S HURRICANE INSURANCE MARKET

Fri, 10 Mar 2006 20:59:13 GMT

...

Tallahassee – The Task Force on Long-Term Solutions for Florida’s Insurance Market submitted a report to the Governor and Legislature today detailing the devastating effects two hurricane seasons have had on consumers, the strai...

LEGISLATORS FILE BILLS AIMED AT PROTECTING FLORIDA SENIORS

Thu, 09 Mar 2006 22:12:50 GMT

...>

Tallahassee – Sen. Mike Fasano, R-New Port Richey, and Rep. Frank Farkas, R-St. Petersburg, have filed significant legislation to provide consumer protection, stabilize long-term care insurance rates and e...

OIR RELEASES MONROE COUNTY PILOT PROJECT REPORT ON COMPETITION

Tue, 28 Feb 2006 21:28:07 GMT

...p>Tallahassee - The Office of Insurance Regulation submitted a report to the Legislature finding that the personal lines residential market is not competitive in Monroe County, thus establishing the legislatively mandated condition n...

OIR SCHEDULES HOMESITE RATE HEARING

Tue, 28 Feb 2006 13:36:45 GMT

...> - The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation will conduct a public hearing Friday in Tallahassee concerning a filing by Homesite Insurance Company of Florida that proposes a statewide average increase of 21.8 percent. The requested rates are not un...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION RELEASES LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES

Fri, 17 Feb 2006 21:50:22 GMT

.../div>

Tallahassee - The Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has released a list of legislative priorities for 2006 that includes creation of a National Catastrophe Insurance Program, prohibition of discrimination in purchasing life insurance...

ALLSTATE CONSENT ORDER COULD TRIGGER REFUNDS

Thu, 16 Feb 2006 16:11:55 GMT

...ong> - A Consent Order between Allstate Floridian Indemnity Insurance Company, Allstate Floridian Insurance Company and the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation includes a provision that could trigger refunds for policyholders in Florida.

MCCARTY TOURS GULF COAST, REDOUBLES EFFORTS FOR NATIONAL CAT PLAN

Mon, 13 Feb 2006 13:41:58 GMT

...st areas devastated by Katrina, said he is more convinced than ever the nation, not only Florida, needs a National Catastrophe Plan.

"People have had their lives turned upside down," said McCarty, who was tourin...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION SETS PUBLIC HEARINGS FOR AMERICAN STRATEGIC INSURANCE CORPORATION/ASI ASSURANCE CORPORATION

Wed, 08 Feb 2006 17:00:42 GMT

...hassee - The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation will conduct public hearings in Orlando concerning rate filings by American Strategic Insurance Corporation/ASI Assurance Corporation. American Strategic is proposing a statewide average of 19 perce...

REPORT RELEASED FROM THE OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION FOR BIENNIAL REVIEW OF NCCI RATEMAKING PROCESS

Thu, 02 Feb 2006 13:47:37 GMT

...-Pursuant to section 627.285, Florida Statutes, the Office of Insurance Regulation contracted for an independent actuarial peer review and analysis of the ratemaking processes of the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI), a licensed ratin...

AVAILABILITY AND AFFORDABILITY OF WORKERS' COMPENSATION COVERAGE

Wed, 01 Feb 2006 13:42:30 GMT

...Statutes, the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has conducted an analysis on the availability and affordability of workers’ compensation coverage and whether the current market structure, conduct and performance are conducive to competition, ba...

INFORMATION FROM THE OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION

Thu, 02 Feb 2006 14:04:25 GMT

...ate Bill 1486, passed by the Florida Legislature in 2005, the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) developed a report concerning Law and Ordinance Coverage, as required in Section 25. The legislation called for the Office to develop a report...

STANDARD RATING TERRITORIES

Wed, 01 Feb 2006 13:45:24 GMT

...Bill 1486, passed by the Florida Legislature in 2005, and as required by section 627.062 (4), Florida Statutes, the Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has developed a proposed plan on standard rating territories to be used by all authorized prop...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION SETS PUBLIC HEARINGS FOR QBE, CITIZENS

Mon, 23 Jan 2006 16:58:54 GMT

...of Insurance Regulation will conduct public hearings in Miami and Clearwater concerning rate filings by QBE Insurance Corporation and Citizens Property Insurance Corporation. QBE is proposing a statewide average of 38 percent. Citizens is proposing...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ISSUES AIG COMPANIES CONSENT ORDER

Thu, 19 Jan 2006 20:10:05 GMT

...ce Regulation has issued a Consent Order requiring 10 AIG Companies to transmit financial data required by statute, to pay administrative fines and costs of more than half a million dollars and to fully comply with Florida Statutes.

...

PRESS STATEMENT FROM OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION

Thu, 19 Jan 2006 19:52:27 GMT

...ommissioner is elected or appointed is a decision for the Florida Legislature and Governor. However, it should be noted that Florida already has an elected official, Chief Financial Officer Tom Gallagher, who regulates insurance agents and agencies,...

CEASE & DESIST ORDER ISSUED TO EMPLOYEE BENEFIT MANAGERS, INC. OF AMERICA

Wed, 11 Jan 2006 19:36:03 GMT

...rance Commissioner Kevin McCarty issued a Cease and Desist Order to Employee Benefit Managers, Inc. of America (EBM) ordering it to cease operating as a Multiple-Employer Welfare Arrangement (MEWA) without a Florida certificate of authority. EBM, an...

PRESS STATEMENT - FROM THE OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION

Fri, 23 Dec 2005 20:03:00 GMT

...ted fraudulent claims by consumers are driving up the cost of insurance in Florida. This is not an accurate statement and creates anxiety and concern for consumers that continue to struggle after eight devastating hurricanes in two years.

...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION - PRESS RELEASE - COMMISSIONER DELIVERS NATIONAL CATASTROPHE PLAN RESOLUTION TO WASHINGTON, D.C.

Mon, 12 Dec 2005 13:24:36 GMT

.... – Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty met with members of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators and the Florida Legislative Delegation Thursday to discuss a guaranteed-issue insurance policy to cover losses from a n...

NAIC VOTES TO ADOPT NATIONAL CATASTROPHE PLAN RESOLUTION

Wed, 07 Dec 2005 14:41:01 GMT

...sp; (850) 413-2515

TALLAHASSEE - The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) voted to adopt a Resolution supporting a national catastrophe plan that build...

AETNA TO OFFER INDIVIDUAL MAJOR MEDICAL POLICIES IN FLORIDA

Tue, 22 Nov 2005 14:46:57 GMT

...Insurance Regulation is pleased to announce that it has approved Aetna Life Insurance Company and Aetna Healthcare product filings to enter the individual major medical insurance market with both PPO and HMO products. This action by Aetna provi...

CEASE & DESIST ORDER ISSUED TO VESPERS, CHANCELLOR

Fri, 18 Nov 2005 21:41:25 GMT

...LC, f/k/a Viatical & Elderly Settlement Providers, LLC, f/k/a National Insurance Deposit Exchange, LLC and Ronald John Chancellor of Washington, D.C. ordering VESPERS and Chancellor to cease operating as a viatical settlement provider in Florida....

KEY INSURANCE REGULATORS TO ANNOUNCE PLAN FOR NATIONAL CATASTROPHE INSURANCE PROGRAM

Wed, 16 Nov 2005 16:24:08 GMT

...sp; (850) 413-2515

Cell: (850) 519-5941
&nbs...

SUMMIT AIMED AT CREATING NATIONAL CATASTROPHE INSURANCE PROGRAM

Wed, 16 Nov 2005 13:47:53 GMT

...p; 850-519-5941, Cell

SAN FRANCISCO –After a season of devastating hurricanes, four state insurance regulators are meeting Tuesday and Wednesday to de...

TOP INSURANCE REGULATORS TO CONVENE IMPORTANT SUMMIT ON NATIONAL CATASTROPHE INSURANCE PROGRAM

Wed, 09 Nov 2005 21:40:48 GMT

...Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty will join insurance commissioners from Illinois, California and New York and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners in San Francisco for a Summit Nov. 15-16 to devise a national catastrophe in...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION SETS PUBLIC HEARINGS FOR FLORIDA SELECT INSURANCE COMPANY

Tue, 08 Nov 2005 21:14:29 GMT

...The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation will conduct public hearings in Jacksonville for input concerning a rate filing by Florida Select Insurance Company proposing a 19% average statewide rate increase for dwelling insurance in one program and a...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION COMPLETES CITIZENS' EXAM

Fri, 04 Nov 2005 22:46:45 GMT

...has completed a market conduct exam looking at Citizens Insurance Company’s handling of the high volume of hurricane claim payments during the hurricane season of 2004 and a data validation review was performed to verify the accuracy of the company’s...

EMERGENCY ORDER EXPANDS POLICIES COVERED BY PROHIBITION OF CANCELLATION, NONRENEWALS

Fri, 28 Oct 2005 19:39:29 GMT

...Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty issued an Emergency Order prohibiting insurers from canceling or nonrenewing policies covering commercial or residential property, automobile, health, life, health maintenance organizations and continuing care ret...

STATE ORDERS WORKERS’ COMP RATE REDUCTION

Fri, 28 Oct 2005 12:37:21 GMT

...assee – Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty disapproved a workers’ compensation rate filing from National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) and called for a new filing with a larger rate decrease.

EMERGENCY ORDER PROHIBITS CANCELLATIONS, NONRENEWALS AFTER HURRICANE WILMA

Tue, 25 Oct 2005 21:47:11 GMT

...McCarty has issued an Emergency Order prohibiting insurers from canceling or nonrenewing policies covering dwellings or residential properties damaged by Hurricane Wilma.

The order is effective for 90 days after the dama...

EARLY PRESCRIPTION REFILLS AVAILABLE IN ANTICIPATION OF WILMA

Thu, 20 Oct 2005 19:00:01 GMT

...ong>Tallahassee – Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty issued an Emergency Order today extending the suspension regulations limiting payment for prescriptions refills and allows Floridians to refill prescriptions in anticipation of evacuatin...

MCCARTY CALLS FOR GREATER TRANSPARENCY, ACCOUNTABILITY

Tue, 18 Oct 2005 21:42:57 GMT

...r Kevin McCarty sent a letter to the joint underwriting associations and quasi-governmental insurers in the state requesting them to provide their standards of conduct for directors, officers and senior management for review by the Office of Insuranc...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ISSUES CONSENT ORDER TO NATIONWIDE INSURANCE COMPANY

Wed, 12 Oct 2005 18:46:03 GMT

...– The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation has issued a Consent Order setting out terms of an agreement reached with Nationwide Insurance Company of Florida to complete a self audit of claims from the 2004 hurricane season, to correct underpayment...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION DISAPPROVES ALLSTATE HOMEOWNERS RATE INCREASE

Fri, 07 Oct 2005 21:32:41 GMT

...has issued Notices of Intent to Disapprove recent rate filings from Allstate Floridian Insurance Company and Allstate Floridian Indemnity Company requesting a statewide average increase of 16.3 percent and 24.4 percent, respectively.

&nbs...

LONG-TERM CARE TOPIC OF PUBLIC HEARINGS

Thu, 06 Oct 2005 19:22:46 GMT

...–The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation has announced panelists scheduled to participate in the scheduled hearing and panel discussion in Tampa concerning the Long-Term Care Insurance (LTCI) market.

Ray Spudeck, Seni...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION SETS PUBLIC HEARINGS FOR STATE FARM FLORIDA INSURANCE COMPANY

Tue, 04 Oct 2005 16:35:07 GMT

...fice of Insurance Regulation will conduct public hearings in Stuart and Sarasota for input concerning a proposed 8.6 percent statewide average increase for homeowners insurance filed by State Farm Florida Insurance. The requested rate was not uniform...

WORKERS COMPENSATION RATE HEARING SCHEDULED

Tue, 04 Oct 2005 16:30:30 GMT

...allahassee – The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation will conduct a public hearing Friday to consider a worker’s compensation rate filing from the National Council on Compensation Insurance, Inc. (NCCI) asking for an overall average decre...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION SETS PUBLIC HEARING FOR NEW HAMPSHIRE INSURANCE COMPANY

Thu, 22 Sep 2005 13:14:38 GMT

...g> – The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation has scheduled a public hearing for a proposed 22 percent statewide average increase for homeowners insurance filed by New Hampshire Insurance Company. The requested rate increase was not uniform and som...

LOUISIANA, WASHINGTON D.C. JOIN MULTI-STATE REVIEW PROGRAM

Wed, 21 Sep 2005 21:17:57 GMT

...ith the addition of Louisiana and Washington D.C., the Multi-State Review Program (MSRP) offers life insurance carriers an opportunity to market their annuities products to almost 30 percent of the U.S. annuity market with only one electronic filing....

EARLY PRESCRIPTION REFILLS AVAILABLE

Wed, 21 Sep 2005 20:54:14 GMT

...An Emergency Order issued by Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty extends the temporary suspension of the regulations regarding prescription refills and allows for Floridians to refill prescriptions before evacuating parts of the state threatened by...

LONG-TERM CARE TOPIC OF PUBLIC HEARINGS

Tue, 20 Sep 2005 19:04:14 GMT

...The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation has scheduled a hearing and panel discussion in Tampa to solicit input from consumers, industry representatives and state officials as part of a comprehensive analysis of the Long-Term Care Insurance (LTCI)...

INSURANCE COMMISSIONERS TO MEET TO DEVELOP NATIONAL CATASTROPHE INSURANCE PROGRAM – TRAGEDY OF HURRICANE KATRINA UNDERSCORES URGENCY AND IMPORTANCE OF SUMMIT

Mon, 19 Sep 2005 21:54:52 GMT

...e Commissioners of several large states will convene a summit November 15 and November 16 to develop a National Catastrophe Insurance Program, which would more effectively spread insurance risk and help survivors cope with the tremendous financial da...

IMG, SIRIUS REACH AGREEMENT WITH OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION

Mon, 12 Sep 2005 20:18:34 GMT

...) and Sirius International Insurance Corporation have agreed to cease and desist from issuing health insurance coverage to Florida residents. As part of the Consent Order issued by the Office of Insurance Regulation, the companies agree to pay admini...

FLORIDA OIR SETS PUBLIC HEARING FOR AUTO-OWNERS INSURANCE COMPANY

Fri, 09 Sep 2005 21:36:15 GMT

...he Florida Office of Insurance Regulation has scheduled a public hearing to get input or solicit input from interested parties concerning a 20 percent average statewide rate increase request for dwelling fire insurance filed by Auto-Owners Insurance...

COMMISSIONER CALLS FOR NATIONAL CATASTROPHE FUND, TAX-DEFERRED CATASTROPHE RESERVES

Tue, 06 Sep 2005 21:17:42 GMT

...Tallahassee – Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty said with the specter of projected hurricane losses from Hurricane Katrina topping $25 billion, he is intensifying his support for creating a national catastrophe fund and a federal...

WORKERS COMPENSATION RATE DECREASE REQUESTED

Thu, 01 Sep 2005 14:00:39 GMT

...For the third consecutive year, the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has received a workers’ compensation rate filing from the National Council on Compensation Insurance, Inc. (NCCI) asking for a rate decrease.

...

LONG-TERM CARE HEARING CANCELLED

Tue, 30 Aug 2005 19:53:54 GMT

...

Tallahassee – Due to the extensive flooding and damage from Hurricane Katrina in south Florida, the Office of Insurance Regulation has cancelled tomorrow’s Long-Term Care Insurance hearing plan...

EARLY PRESCRIPTION REFILLS AVAILABLE

Fri, 26 Aug 2005 12:00:19 GMT

...With the threat of another hurricane moving through Florida, Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty ordered health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and health insurers in Florida to temporarily suspend their regulations regarding prescription refills.

LONG-TERM CARE PUBLIC HEARING CANCELLED

Fri, 26 Aug 2005 11:57:59 GMT

...With the imminent threat of Tropical Storm Katrina and the Governor’s recent Executive Order #05-176 declaring a state of emergency for many Florida counties, the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation has cancelled tomorrow’s public hearing about th...

LONG-TERM CARE REPORT RELEASED; TOPIC OF PUBLIC HEARINGS

Thu, 18 Aug 2005 13:35:45 GMT

...>Tallahassee – With the release of a report highlighting the need for protection against skyrocketing Long-Term Care costs, the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation announces two public hearings to solicit input from consumers, ind...

DAMAGE REPORTS RELEASED FOR HURRICANE DENNIS

Tue, 09 Aug 2005 16:47:00 GMT

...ssee – More than $74 million has been paid by insurers for damage claims received through the second week of Hurricane Dennis reporting and early numbers show more than 75 percent of losses are in Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Escambia counties.

INITIAL DAMAGE REPORTS RELEASED FOR HURRICANE DENNIS

Tue, 02 Aug 2005 20:15:27 GMT

...Tallahassee – The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation received initial claims reports from insurers showing that at the end of the first week of reporting, insurance claims resulting from Hurricane Dennis total 46,394 statewide. To date,...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ISSUES IMMEDIATE FINAL ORDER

Tue, 02 Aug 2005 16:52:13 GMT

...Tallahassee – Florida Insurance Regulation Commissioner Kevin McCarty issued an Immediate Final Order to Global Property & Casualty, Inc., Global Property & Casualty, Inc. and A. Weintraub to immediately cease operations in Flo...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION SETS PUBLIC HEARINGS FOR ALLSTATE FLORIDIAN, ALLSTATE FLORIDIAN INDEMNITY AND FLORIDA SELECT INSURANCE COMPANIES

Mon, 25 Jul 2005 12:31:01 GMT

...div>

Tallahassee – The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation has scheduled public hearings for proposed homeowners insurance rate increases filed by Allstate Floridian and Allstate Floridian Indemnity Insurance companies and Fl...

COMMISSIONER CALLS FOR TRIA PASSAGE IN WAKE OF LONDON TERRORISM

Fri, 22 Jul 2005 13:14:04 GMT

...in London in the last two weeks reiterate the need for a federal terrorism backstop. The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation joins the National Association of Insurance Commissioners and the National Council of Insurance Legislators in supporting...

INSURANCE COMMISSIONER ISSUES EMERGENCY ORDER PROVIDING RELIEF TO POLICYHOLDERS

Tue, 19 Jul 2005 20:49:38 GMT

...strong>

Tallahassee – Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty has issued an Emergency Order prohibiting insurers from cancelling or non renewing policies covering dwellings or residential properties damaged by Hurricane Denni...

WM. PAGE & ASSOCIATES D/B/A THE LIFELINE PROGRAM SURRENDERS VIATICAL SETTLEMENT PROVIDER LICENSE

Tue, 12 Jul 2005 12:53:52 GMT

...nbsp;

Tallahassee – Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty accepted the surrender of Wm. Page & Associates, d/b/a The Lifeline Program, viatical settlement provider license. Upon the company’s surrender, the Comm...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION DISAPPROVES CINCINNATI HOMEOWNERS’ RATE REQUEST

Wed, 06 Jul 2005 20:25:42 GMT

...ati Insurance Company requesting an average statewide rate increase of 36.7%. The company may request an administrative hearing, arbitration or modify its current filing.

The company offices are located in Fairfield...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION TO REVIEW ALLSTATE FILING IN JULY

Thu, 23 Jun 2005 14:14:11 GMT

...strong>Tallahassee – Florida Insurance Regulation Commissioner Kevin McCarty announced a proposed 28% rate filing by Allstate Floridian Insurance Company will be submitted to the Office in July.

The filing, being...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ANNOUNCES PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING CINCINNATI HOMEOWNERS’ RATE REQUEST

Wed, 08 Jun 2005 14:35:51 GMT

...ong>Tallahassee – The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation has announced a public hearing regarding a proposed rate increase filed by Cincinnati Indemnity Company and Cincinnati Insurance Company. The rate filing is for Cincinnati’s Homeow...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ISSUES CEASE AND DESIST ORDERS

Tue, 07 Jun 2005 15:30:07 GMT

...

Tallahassee – Florida Insurance Regulation Commissioner Kevin M. McCarty issued cease and desist orders to companies in Hartford, Connecticut, Suwanee, Georgia, Port Vila, Vanuatu, South Pacific, and Auckland, New Z...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ISSUES ORDER

Thu, 19 May 2005 14:10:51 GMT

...a Office of Insurance Regulation has joined the ever-increasing tide of regulatory bodies seeking answers from American International Group, Inc. (AIG). AIG operates 43 licensed insurance entities in the State of Florida. The...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION UNDERTAKES ANALYSIS OF LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE MARKET

Mon, 09 May 2005 18:26:08 GMT

...trong> – The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has begun a comprehensive analysis of the Long Term Care insurance market. The project will include at least two public hearings to solicit input from those who may be affected by changes i...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ANNOUNCES PUBLIC HEARINGS REGARDING SERVICE MOBILE HOMEOWNERS’ RATE REQUEST

Tue, 03 May 2005 12:47:18 GMT

...see – The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation has announced public hearings regarding a proposed rate increase filed by Service Insurance Company. The rate filing is for Service’s Mobile Homeowners Insurance Program.

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ANNOUNCES STAFF CHANGES

Thu, 28 Apr 2005 19:37:44 GMT

...trong>

Tallahassee – Florida Insurance Regulation Commissioner Kevin McCarty announced new staff changes in the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation effective May 1, 2005 with sev...

BILL STRENGTHENING UNAUTHORIZED ENTITIES LAW HEADED TO THE GOVERNOR

Wed, 27 Apr 2005 18:54:29 GMT

...strong>--- House Bill 1065 and Senate Bill 1662 which strengthen Florida’s laws on unauthorized insurance entities is now on its way to the Governor’s desk for his signature.

The bill authorizes the Office of I...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION AUTHORIZES THREE NEW HOMEOWNERS COMPANIES

Mon, 25 Apr 2005 16:04:31 GMT

...>

The permits were issued to Seaside Property Insurance Company, First Home Insurance Company and Florida Peninsula Insurance Company. A permit allows a company to raise the necessary funds to write future homeowner business and apply for a Cert...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ISSUES SUBPOENAS

Thu, 21 Apr 2005 16:36:11 GMT

...- Florida Insurance Regulation Commissioner Kevin McCarty issued investigative subpoenas this week requesting information related to finite reinsurance activities in the insurance industry.

Finite reinsurance is a form o...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION TIGHTENS FINITE REINSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

Fri, 15 Apr 2005 20:13:26 GMT

... – Florida Insurance Regulation Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced that the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) is initiating a rule change that will require domestic insurance companies to make additional disclosures and...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ISSUES IMMEDIATE FINAL ORDER

Wed, 13 Apr 2005 19:01:30 GMT

...ahassee – Florida Insurance Regulation Commissioner Kevin McCarty issued an immediate final order to a Graham, Washington company to immediately cease operations in Florida. The Global Healing Society has been selling auto bonds as a substit...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION RELEASES SINKHOLE STUDY

Wed, 06 Apr 2005 18:54:13 GMT

...ong>

Tallahassee – The Florida State University College of Business, Department of Risk Management and Insurance, under the direction of the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office), has prepared a report addr...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION REVOKES LICENSE OF MUTUAL BENEFITS CORPORATION

Thu, 31 Mar 2005 19:41:50 GMT

...see – Florida Insurance Regulation Commissioner Kevin McCarty issued a consent order revoking the license of viatical settlement company, Mutual Benefits Corporation, for violations of Florida and federal laws involving securities violations...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ISSUES REPORT ON PROPERTY INSURANCE MARKET

Thu, 31 Mar 2005 19:33:08 GMT

...ce of Insurance Regulation (OIR) issued a comprehensive analysis of the post-2004 hurricane season property marketplace contrasting it with the post-Hurricane Andrew market.

“The Property Insurance Market in Florida 2004:...

GEORGIA JOINS MULTI-STATE INSURANCE PRODUCT FILING REVIEW PROJECT

Mon, 14 Mar 2005 20:34:56 GMT

...>

Tallahassee – Momentum continues for the new multiple state insurance filing review project, Fast Track. Georgia Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine signed onto the Fast Track program at the National Asso...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION LEVIES FINES ON INSURANCE COMPANIES FOUND IN NON-COMPLIANCE

Mon, 14 Feb 2005 15:03:15 GMT

...Carty today announced that 91 insurance companies were assessed fines totaling more than $1.1 million for filing late affidavits stemming from Tropical Storm Bonnie and Hurricanes Charley, Frances, Ivan and Jeanne.

“These...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ISSUES MEMORANDUM REQUESTING INSURANCE COMPANIES DELAY FILING RATE INCREASES

Thu, 10 Feb 2005 13:34:27 GMT

...Florida Office of Insurance Regulation issued a memorandum to insurance companies requesting they delay from filing rate increases until after the Florida legislative session.

“I’m refraining from utilizing the authority...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION AUTHORIZES NEW HOMEOWNER COMPANY

Wed, 09 Feb 2005 19:55:13 GMT

...ida Office of Insurance Regulation today issued a permit to Security First Insurance Company who has applied for a Certificate of Authority to write homeowners policies in the state of Florida.

The permit approval allows...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ANNOUNCES PUBLIC HEARINGS REGARDING NATIONWIDE MOBILE HOMEOWNERS’ RATE REQUEST

Tue, 08 Feb 2005 15:23:42 GMT

...rding a proposed rate increase filed by Nationwide Insurance Company of Florida. The rate filing is for Nationwide’s Mobile Homeowners Insurance Program.

Nationwide’s filing requests an average statewide rate increase of...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ANNOUNCES PUBLIC HEARINGS REGARDING NATIONWIDE HOMEOWNERS’ RATE REQUEST

Tue, 08 Feb 2005 15:16:01 GMT

...ion has announced public hearings regarding a proposed rate increase filed by Nationwide Insurance Company of Florida. The rate filing is for Nationwide’s Homeowners Insurance Program. Discussion will also be held on Nationwide’s homeowner policy sur...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION AUTHORIZES TWO NEW HOMEOWNERS COMPANIES

Thu, 16 Dec 2004 17:44:57 GMT

...ckground-color:#ffffff">Florida Office of Insurance Regulation today issued Certificates of Authority to two new insurance companies. The companies, Gulfstream Property and Casualty Insurance Company and Southern Oak Insurance Company, w...

FLORIDA INSURANCE OFFICIAL RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS NATIONAL AWARD

Thu, 09 Dec 2004 17:53:40 GMT

...warded its most prestigious national honor to Rich Robleto, of the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation, at its winter meetings this week in New Orleans, LA. Robleto serves as Director of Life and Health Product Review, providing oversight to...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ORDERS CITIZENS TO REVIEW RATES

Thu, 18 Nov 2004 20:41:13 GMT

...nbsp; 850/ 528-2868

Tallahassee – The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office), today, issued an order to the Citizens Property Insurance Corporation (Citizens) to conduct a review of i...

INSURANCE COMMISSIONER APPROVES WORKERS' COMP RATE CUT

Wed, 17 Nov 2004 20:49:23 GMT

...d beginning next year. The rates will decline by a statewide average of 5.1% and by almost nine percent for contractors. The rate cut follows a 14% reduction in October 2003.

“This will be welcome news for Flo...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION DISAPPROVES WORKERS’ COMP RATES

Wed, 27 Oct 2004 20:02:32 GMT

...on rate filing because the decrease in rates was not enough. McCarty ordered the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) to re-file rates that reflect a larger rate decrease.

McCarty said that while NCCI does fine work, “I...

NEVADA SIGNS ON TO INSURANCE FILING REVIEW PROJECT

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:12:09 GMT

...iple state insurance filing review project - as Nevada has joined the effort. Nevada Insurance Commissioner Alice Molasky-Arman signed onto the Fast Track program at the just concluded National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ meeting, in Anch...

RELIEF IS ORDERED FOR THOSE DISPLACED BY HURRICANES ON PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:12:08 GMT

...e state of Florida, Kevin McCarty, has ordered the state’s health insurance companies and Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO) to temporarily suspend their regulations regarding prescription refills. McCarty’s order, issued today, is in response to...

INSURANCE COMMISSIONER ORDERS EMERGENCY STATEWIDE RELIEF FOLLOWING BACK-TO-BACK HURRICANES

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:12:07 GMT

...de the same temporary relief for those affected by Hurricane Frances as was ordered for the victims of Hurricane Charley. McCarty’s order disallows the cancellation or non-renewal of insurance policies and also requires insurers to report on market a...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION RECEIVES LATEST WORKERS’ COMPENSATION RATE FILING

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:12:05 GMT

...ers who write workers’ compensation coverage in the state. The filing calls for an overall rate reduction of 2.3 percent. This follows last year’s rate decrease of 14 percent which followed the significant reforms made to the workers’ compensation sy...

BIG STATES APPROVE FIRST INSURER FILING UNDER NEW PROGRAM

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:12:00 GMT

...to ease differing regulatory mandates became reality today, as simultaneous approval was given to an annuity form by three states. The filing, from the New England Life Insurance Company, received approval by Florida, Texas and California, the three...

FEDERAL, STATE REGULATORS SHUT DOWN NATION’S LARGEST VIATICAL SETTLEMENT COMPANY

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:56 GMT

...T (305) 577-1099 OR http://www.mbcreceiver.com.

TALLAHASSEE- Federal and state regulators today stepped in to shut down and suspend the license of the nation’s largest viatical settlement company, Mutual Benefits Corporation, for violations o...

CONSECO SENIOR HEALTH INSURANCE COMPANY'S REQUEST TO CANCEL HOME HEALTH CARE POLICIES DENIED

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:54 GMT

...ncel its home health care policies, in addition to its request for a 211.6% rate increase. Conseco Senior Health Insurance Company (Conseco Senior) made the request, which is permitted under Florida law, subject to Office approval. The request was ma...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ANNOUNCES PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING CONSECO SENIOR HEALTH INSURANCE COMPANY’S REQUEST FOR RELIEF

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:51 GMT

...ior Health Insurance Company, pursuant to Section 627.9407, Florida Statutes, and Rule 69O-157.005, Florida Administrative Code, regarding its home health care policies issued in Florida.
Interested parties who would like to participate in the he...

INSURANCE REGULATOR ADVISES CONSUMERS OF THEIR OPTIONS AFTER LOSING COVERAGE

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:47 GMT

...ing that it will not be renewing the policies of its individual health customers, the state’s chief insurance regulator is cautioning the affected consumers to be aware of their options.

Director of the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation,...

UNAUTHORIZED BONDING COMPANY ORDERED TO CEASE BUSINESS IN FLORIDA

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:10:51 GMT

...da. Global Bonding has been soliciting customers for the purchase of contractor surety bonds and has been issuing construction performance bonds and bid bonds. Global is unlicensed and unauthorized to transact surety business in Florida.

The...

MOTOR VEHICLE SERVICE AGREEMENT ENTITIES ORDERED TO CEASE OPERATIONS IN FLORIDA

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:10:49 GMT

...perations, in Florida, and a licensed agent has been ordered to cease business related to the two entities.

Warranty Gold, Ltd. (Warranty), of Austin, Texas, has been found to be marketing motor vehicle service agreements without a license an...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION RELEASES PRESUMED FACTOR

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:46 GMT

...eform -

Tallahassee (11/10/2003) – The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (Office) has released the presumed factor, which medical malpractice insurers must use in setting new rates. The Office announced that the presumed factor is a negat...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION TO HOLD NEWS AVAILABILITY MONDAY

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:45 GMT

...ce) has scheduled a press availability on Monday, November 10, 2003. It will be held at the J. Edwin Larson Building, at 1:00 P.M., in room 116.

The Office will be releasing the “presumed factor” on Monday morning. The presumed factor is the...

TWO NEW MEDICAL MALPRACTICE INSURERS APPROVED IN FLORIDA

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:43 GMT

...Regulation announced today that two new companies have been given the green light to enter the state’s medical malpractice insurance market. Healthcare Underwriters Insurance Group of Florida and Pediatricians Insurance Risk Retention Group of Ameri...

UNAUTHORIZED WATER CRAFT INSURER ORDERED TO STOP FLORIDA OPERATIONS, AGENT FACING LICENSE REVOCATION

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:43 GMT

...mpany to stop selling unauthorized insurance in the state, and a Venice agent is facing revocation of his license for selling the bogus coverage.

In an Immediate Final Order issued by Office of Insurance Regulation Director Kevin McCarty, Nor...

INSURER ORDERED TO CEASE USE OF MISLEADING LETTER

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:41 GMT

...lerting policyholders of a misleading letter issued by an insurance company and has ordered the company to cease using the letter and correct any harm to policyholders. The Life and Health Insurance Company of America (Life and Health) is sending the...

MEDIA ADVISORY FROM THE FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:41 GMT

...lorida Office of Insurance Regulation announce the 2003 Florida Health Insurance Symposium. The event is scheduled for September 22nd and 23rd at the Biltmore Hotel, 1200 Anastasia Avenue, in Coral Gables, Florida.

Florida’s Chief Financial O...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ORDERS SHUTDOWN OF UNAUTHORIZED VIATICAL SETTLEMENT OPERATION

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:40 GMT

...ical settlement provider to immediately cease transacting business. Resource Funding Group (RFG) is incorporated in Georgia, but operates out of Sarasota, Florida. The entity has been engaging in substantial viatical settlement business without autho...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION RELEASES FINAL ORDER ON STATE FARM FLORIDA MOLD FILING

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:41 GMT

...ts that sought to exclude mold damage resulting from a covered peril. State Farm Florida Insurance Company (State Farm) also sought to limit the amount of separate mold coverage that could have been purchased to a maximum of $50,000.

The OIR...

JUDGE APPROVES SALE OF VIATICAL SETTLEMENT FIRM

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:38 GMT

...some compensation to investors who were victimized by the former Future First Financial Group, Inc., of Ponte Vedra. Judge J. Michael Traynor, acting for the Seventh Circuit Court, in St. Johns County, approved a purchase and sale agreement that coul...

LOWER WORKERS’ COMPENSATION RATES APPROVED FOR FLORIDA

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:37 GMT

...y, that it has approved the revised workers’ compensation rates filed by the National Council on Compensation Insurance. Last month’s filing was in response to an order by OIR Director Kevin McCarty, calling for a rate revision reflecting the impact...

JUDGE RECOMMENDS INSURER’S AUTHORITY TO CONDUCT BUSINESS BE SUSPENDED

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:37 GMT

...a Office of Insurance Regulation suspend the license of an insurance company that refused to comply with a regulatory order. William F. Quattlebaum, acting for the Division of Administrative Hearings (DOAH), recommended that Superior Insurance Compan...

UNLICENSED VIATICAL SETTLEMENT PROVIDER ORDERED TO CEASE OPERATIONS

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:36 GMT

...mediately cease any viatical insurance business. The order named nine affiliated entities or persons (see attached), including Fewkes Management, of Jupiter, Florida, which must cease any and all viatical insurance operations in and from Florida.

NEWS FROM THE FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:35 GMT

...filed with his office that will lower the costs of coverage for Florida’s employers. McCarty’s order follows the signing of Senate Bill 50-A by Governor Jeb Bush. The bill implements reforms to many areas of Florida’s workers’ compensation system.

INSURANCE MARKETER ORDERED TO STOP ILLEGAL SALES

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:35 GMT

...ade oversight

Tallahassee - The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation has ordered the Native Assurance Company, Inc., of Hollywood and Boca Raton, to stop transacting insurance business in the state. Additionally, the Office has ordered Nativ...

UNAUTHORIZED COMPANY ORDERED TO STOP SELLING MEDICAL MALPRACTICE INSURANCE IN FLORIDA

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:35 GMT

...marketing of bogus medical malpractice liability insurance. First Actual American Insurance Company has been marketing medical malpractice insurance by faxing sales materials to doctors throughout the state.

First Actual American Insurance C...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION TO HOLD HEARING ON INSURER RATE INCREASE

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:34 GMT

...e filed by MeritPlan Insurance Company. The rate filing is for MeritPlan’s Homeowner’s Insurance Program.

MeritPlan’s filing requests an average statewide rate increase of 43.9%. The average rate change varies by county. A list of average, co...

STATE FARM RATE DECISION

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:33 GMT

...ent to disapprove the company’s recently filed Mobile Homeowner insurance rate increase.

Commenting on the action, OIR Director Kevin McCarty said, “We have carefully reviewed the data and material State Farm Florida had submitted to support...

REGARDING COTTON STATES MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY’S HOMEOWNERS RATE REQUEST

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:31 GMT

...Cotton States Mutual Insurance Company. The rate filing is for Cotton States’ Homeowners Insurance Program.

Cotton States’ filing requests an average statewide rate increase of 32.5%. The average rate change varies by county. A list of averag...

UNLICENSED INSURANCE ENTITIES ORDERED TO STOP SALES

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:31 GMT

...surance Regulation (OIR) today ordered three entities to immediately stop sales and marketing of bogus insurance products.

For more than a year, the Department of Financial Services has been conducting a public education campaign urging consu...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION ANNOUNCES PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING STATE FARM FLORIDA’S MOBILE HOMEOWNERS RATE REQUEST

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:15 GMT

...Insurance Company. The rate filing is for State Farm Florida’s Manufactured Home Program, which insures mobile homes in Florida.

State Farm Florida’s filing requests an average statewide rate increase of 57.8%. The average rate change varies...

VIATICAL SETTLEMENT PROVIDER SETTLES CASE WITH OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:14 GMT

...Lifeline Program, of Ft. Lauderdale, regarding an Administrative Complaint alleging multiple violations of the Florida Insurance Code. Wm. Page and Associates is a licensed viatical settlement provider and is charged with imposing improper fees and p...

FLORIDA OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION APPROVES HUMANA'S NEWEST HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:12 GMT

...new addition to the list of companies offering health insurance in Florida.

Humana Health Insurance Company, of Florida, will offer an individual major medical plan, called HumanaOne, beginning in June. HumanaOne is a PPO plan designed for i...

OIR REMINDS THAT THOSE CALLED TO ACTIVE DUTY CAN TEMPORARILY SUSPEND HEALTH COVERAGE

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:13 GMT

...urance Regulation wants to alert these troops and their families that their health and disability income policies will not be affected.

Florida law requires the continuation of health insurance and disability income coverage following call-up...

OFFICE OF INSURANCE REGULATION SHUTS DOWN UNLICENSED ENTITIES SELLING BOGUS MEDICAL MALPRACTICE COVERAGE

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:11 GMT

...ing worthless medical malpractice insurance to health care professionals in Florida.

An Immediate Final Order was issued against Bermuda-based Professional Liability Insurance Company, Ltd. (PLIC), PLIC Claims Management, Inc., UNIMED, Medical...

FLORIDA REGULATORS REVOKE VIATICAL COMPANY LICENSE

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:09 GMT

...were found guilty of approximately 47 federal counts of fraudulent activities.

A jury found Stephen Keller, Chief Executive, and Grant Sutherlin, Vice President of Sales, guilty of fraud, conspiracy, and money laundering. Keith Drach, Lexingto...

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION RATE FILING DECISION

Tue, 05 Oct 2004 23:11:06 GMT

...Office of Insurance Regulation, announced today that workers’ compensation premiums are expected to rise by an average of 13.7 percent statewide beginning April 1, 2003.

“The Office of Insurance Regulation is sensitive to the impact that rate...