CFO Jeff Atwater Applauds Governor Scott for Signing Legislation Creating Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights
TALLAHASSEE – June 17, 2014 – (RealEstateRama) — Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today applauded Governor Rick Scott for signing Senate Bill 708 into law, creating a Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights that provides important consumer protections and greater transparency in the insurance claim-filing process.
“The Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights is a much-needed resource to help homeowners understand their rights and responsibilities when filing an insurance claim,” said CFO Atwater. “When someone is dealing with the unexpected loss of their property, they need to know they will be treated fairly by their insurance company and the contractors who are providing services.”
The Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights must be provided to every policyholder who files a claim. The bill of rights will be a simply worded one-page document that references current Florida law about the rights of policyholders in their claims process. It will also inform policyholders about what they should expect during their claims process and provide advice on the steps they should take in the process.
Senate Bill 708 passed unanimously in both chambers of the Florida Legislature, under the leadership of House Speaker Will Weatherford and Senate President Don Gaetz. The House and Senate bill sponsors were Representatives Dave Hood and George Moraitis and Senator Aaron Bean. The Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights goes into effect on October 1, 2014.
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Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, a statewide elected official, oversees the Department of Financial Services. CFO Atwater’s priorities include fighting financial fraud, abuse and waste in government; reducing government spending and regulatory burdens that chase away businesses and providing transparency and accountability in state spending.
Contact: Chris Cate
(850) 413- 2842
