Florida Insurance Commissioner Michael Yaworsky has increased enforcement efforts, leading to a rise in fines and restitution for policyholders in 2024.
Insurers faced $2.8 million in fines during the first three quarters of the year, nearly seven times the total penalties issued in all of 2023, according to a new enforcement report.
Yaworsky, who took office in early 2023, has made claims handling misconduct a particular focus. “We will not allow consumers to be treated unfairly during the recovery process,” he said in a statement.
The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (FLOIR) reported $8 million in monetary restitution for policyholders affected by claims-handling issues, much of which stemmed from damage caused by hurricanes Helene and Milton. FLOIR has also conducted more than 600 market conduct examinations under Yaworsky’s leadership.
In response to complaints about policy cancellations and non-renewals in hurricane-affected areas, Yaworsky reminded residents that such actions are prohibited until emergency orders expire in December. “FLOIR stands ready to take administrative action if necessary,” he said.
Yaworsky has overseen significant growth within FLOIR, bolstered by increased funding and staffing. The agency’s workforce now exceeds 300 full-time employees, including fraud investigators, compliance analysts and researchers, all working to enhance market regulation and consumer protections.
The aggressive enforcement measures reflect a marked shift in priorities compared to previous years.
