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unfair insurance trade practices

Consumer Protection Bill Includes Insurance Reforms

Consumer Protection Bill Includes Insurance Reforms

The Florida Legislature adopted HB 1185 during the 2023 legislative session. The bill has been presented to Governor Ron DeSantis for approval or veto. The bill’s consumer protection provisions are not limited to the insurance industry. However, several relate directly to insurers or insurance-related organizations. The following are among the key insurance-related changes in the […]

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DFS Discusses Differences Between Referral Fees, Advertising Gifts and Unlawful Inducements

DFS Discusses Differences Between Referral Fees, Advertising Gifts and Unlawful Inducements

The Department of Financial Services recently published a short article in its Insurance Insights newsletter relating to what constitutes a referral fee, marketing or advertising gift, or unlawful inducement.  Insurance licensees will recognize these labels from references to them in the Unfair Insurance Trade Practices statute (Section 626.9541) and Section 626.112(8).  Although each situation is fact-specific and […]

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Anti-Discrimination Law Relating to Gun Ownership Takes Effect July 1

Anti-Discrimination Law Relating to Gun Ownership Takes Effect July 1

A new law limiting the ability of personal lines property and personal lines auto insurers to use gun possession or ownership information in underwriting or rating takes effect July 1.  The legislature passed SB 424 during the 2014 legislative session, and the bill was signed into law as Chapter Law 2014-180. The new law amended Section 626.9541 […]

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Wellness Bill Signed Into Law Effective July 1

Wellness Bill Signed Into Law Effective July 1

The legislature passed HB 445 during the 2011 session creating an exception to unfair insurance trade practices statutes allowing health insurers and HMOs to offer rewards or incentives for wellness or health improvements. The incentives may take the form of merchandise, gift cards, debit cards, premium discounts, contributions to HSAs or similar items.  Governor Rick […]

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