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Senator Fasano Criticizes Insurance Industry For Anti-Consumer Remarks

by Greg Giordano

Legislative Assistant, District 11

State Senator Mike Fasano was appalled at the anti-consumer remarks made by Barney Bishop, the chief executive officer of the Associated Industries of Florida. In a January 5 article published in the Tampa Tribune, Mr. Bishop is quoted as saying: “We believe that [homeowners insurance] rates have been suppressed. And we believe that rates are going to have to rise.”

“I challenge Mr. Bishop to stand before a group of my constituents hit by unprecedented increases in premium rates and make that statement,” Sen. Fasano said. “To claim that rates have been suppressed is outrageous. To state that rates should continue to rise is unconscionable.”

“My district office has been bombarded with calls, many from seniors and working families, who are struggling to come up with the huge increases they are being expected to pay,” Sen. Fasano continues. “I would like Mr. Bishop to look those folks in the eye and tell them their rates have been suppressed. To the poor seniors who have actually said that moving out of state or committing suicide because they can’t pay their premiums is preferable to the stress this crisis is causing I would like Mr. Bishop to meet with them and tell them he thinks their rates should go up even more.”

Sen. Fasano has been working on several pieces of legislation for the upcoming special session of the legislature which, if passed, will have a positive impact on homeowners rates. Included in his package is the creation of a grant program for certain homeowners to receive some direct cash assistance to be used towards paying their increased insurance rates.

“The governor in his inaugural address recognized the seriousness of the insurance crisis,” Sen. Fasano said. “Leaders in the House and Senate do as well. This is our chance to go to Tallahassee and fix the problem. I will work tirelessly with my colleagues to pass meaningful and real-life insurance reform.”

The Florida Legislature goes into special session on Tuesday, Jan. 16.

Sen. Mike Fasano serves District 11. His office is in New Port Richey and the district includes part of North Pinellas County.