RIA releases position on Florida HB 909.
Press Release Summary:
RIA has announced its support of Florida House Bill 909, which addresses the practice of Assignment of Benefits. RIA believes that the use of an AOB is in the best interest of the policy holder, and any prohibition will result in delaying work needed for proper restoration of damage. Current language in HB 909 has the potential to allow insurance providers to remove the rights of consumers to assign benefits within policies and RIA recommends that this language be eliminated in its entirety.
Original Press Release:
Restoration Industry Association Releases Position on Florida HB 909
Rockville, Maryland – The Restoration Industry Association (RIA) has announced its position on Florida House Bill 909 which addresses the practice of Assignment of Benefits (AOB). The Association opposes HB 909 as well as any Senate bill that includes the same language regarding AOB. RIA believes that the use of an AOB is in the best interest of the policy holder, and any prohibition will result in delaying work needed for the proper restoration of damage.
RIA encourages insurance providers in Florida to continue to include AOB in policies as this is in the best interests of their customers and consumers all across Florida. The current language in HB 909 has the potential to allow insurance providers to remove the rights of consumers to assign benefits within policies and RIA recommends that this language be eliminated in its entirety.
The current statutes in Florida adequately provide for AOB and have done so since at least 1917, and this should not be altered. Any attempt to disallow AOB in Florida will effectively remove the rights that all Florida consumers of insurance products have to choose their contractor and could create a perception that insurance providers are manipulating the property insurance market for their own best interests.
For more information, contact the Restoration Industry Association in Rockville, Maryland, (800) 272-7012 or visit www.restorationindustry.org.
The Restoration Industry Association (RIA) is the oldest and largest trade association representing the restoration and reconstruction industry with member firms worldwide. RIA serves and represents the interests of its members by promoting the highest ethical standards; providing education, professional qualification and certification opportunities; positively influencing regulations and governmental actions; and advancing the safety, image, efficiency, and competitiveness of industry members. More information is available on the RIA website: www.restorationindustry.org
