Gov. DeSantis: Florida enacted ‘sweeping reforms to curtail legal abuse, stabilize insurance markets, and bring relief to consumers’

Ron DeSantis, Governor for Florida
Ron DeSantis, Governor for Florida
0Comments

Ron DeSantis, Governor of Florida, said state measures have led to average reductions of 8.7% for Citizens policyholders statewide, with South Florida seeing 13.4% savings alongside private carrier adjustments.

“Florida enacted sweeping reforms to curtail legal abuse, stabilize insurance markets, and bring relief to consumers,” said Ronald Dion Desantis. “Today in Davie, I was proud to announce historic relief for the vast majority of Citizens Insurance customers. The average rate reduction will be 8.7% statewide, and in South Florida, policyholders will see an average reduction of 13.4% This is in addition to rate reductions for homeowners policies (such as an 8.2% decrease by Peninsula) and auto policies (such as a 10% reduction by State Farm)”

According to a statement posted on X by DeSantis, details from a Davie announcement outlined property coverage adjustments. Citizens Property Insurance Corporation has approved an average 8.7% premium reduction statewide for renewals starting in spring 2026, affecting over 330,000 policyholders across all counties. More than 150,000 policyholders will see decreases of 10% or greater, enhancing access to coverage. South Florida counties, including Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach, will experience the largest drops.

As of January 2025, Citizens policies in force declined to 395,144—a 50% reduction from the previous year and the lowest level in 14 years. This depopulation reflects increased private market participation following reforms addressing litigation and claims processes. Private insurers like Peninsula and State Farm have filed for decreases in homeowners and auto policies, contributing to broader market stability.

State officials attribute the premium decrease to tort reforms and insurance legislation that reduced abusive claims and encouraged competition. These changes have led to lower reinsurance costs and more carriers entering the market. Policyholders benefit from expanded options and lower rates.

DeSantis was born in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1978. He holds a Bachelor of Arts from Yale University and a Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School. Before becoming governor in 2019, he served in the U.S. Navy and as a U.S. Representative.

The Executive Office of the Governor includes offices such as the Appointments Office, Office of General Counsel, Office of Open Government, Communications Office, and an administrative office. It ensures the faithful execution of laws and handles necessary business with state officers while leading initiatives in public safety, education, and environmental conservation.



Related

Blaise Ingoglia, Chief Financial Officer, State of Florida

Chief Financial Officer Ingoglia on property tax relief: ‘Our analysis shows that property tax relief is very much possible and desperately needed’

Florida Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia said property tax relief is possible following reviews identifying over $2 billion in local government spending he called reckless.

Lizzie Pittinger, Public Policy Associate, Uber

Uber Public Policy Associate on ride costs: ‘insurance is a big piece of it’

Lizzie Pittinger of Uber said state-level insurance requirements significantly impact ride fares.

Ronna Ruppelt, Former CEO, Claims and Litigation Management Alliance

Claims and Litigation Management Alliance reports Florida enacts major tort reforms in 2023

Florida enacted major tort reforms in 2023 aimed at changing civil litigation practices.

Trending

The Weekly Newsletter

Sign-up for the Weekly Newsletter from Tallahassee Business Daily.