Today, due to the advocacy of Florida Chamber members, the Florida Insurance Commissioner approved a rate decrease on workers’ compensation insurance rates, which will immediately save Florida’s businesses $172 million in insurance premiums. This is a direct result of the passage of HB 903, a priority of the Florida Chamber during the 2009 Session, and is a significant victory in the fight to keep costs low for employers and small businesses.

This victory would not have been possible without the thousands of calls, emails and in-person meetings made by members of the Florida Chamber of Commerce. Your overwhelming response to our grassroots calls to action made the difference in getting HB 903 passed, signed by the Governor and now put into cost-saving application by the Insurance Commissioner.

The Florida Chamber of Commerce applauds Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty for his quick action to reduce workers compensation rates for Florida’s employers and small business owners.

In his statement today, Commissioner McCarty noted the important cost savings to Florida’s employers, saying:

“I am pleased that Gov. Crist and the Florida Legislature recognized the importance of keeping our workers’ compensation rates down. I believe that injured workers still will have appropriate access to the legal system while also still keeping workers’ compensation rates affordable for employers.”

In Case You Missed It: In The News

Miami Herald: Today, June 3, 2009 – Fla Workers’ Comp Rate Increase Rolled Back

Again, this success would not have been possible without the grassroots support of members such as you. The Florida Chamber will continue to fight against additional burdens in our mission to drive Florida toward the successful, innovative economy of tomorrow.

Please visit www.FloridaChamber.com for additional updates and analysis of the 2009 legislative session.
My best,

Mark Wilson
President and CEO
Florida Chamber of Commerce

Friday, Governor Charlie Crist signed HB 903 into state law, saving Florida employers millions in workers’ compensation costs. This victory for Florida’s employers was possible thanks to your thousands of calls, emails, and in-person meetings with your legislators during session.  Your grassroots efforts to urge Gov. Crist to sign the bill into law made the difference.

The Florida Chamber applauds the Governor and the Florida Legislature on the passage of this Florida Business Agenda priority.  With unemployment in Florida at 9.6%, Florida’s employers need these resources to hire more employees and assist them in transitioning through these tough economic times.  This legislation ensures injured workers receive more in benefits than plaintiffs’ trial lawyers do in fees. The Florida Chamber, working with the support of our local chamber and statewide partners, fought for the passage of this bill throughout session.

The signing of this critical legislation is a victory for Florida’s employers, especially small businesses, who cannot afford higher costs while facing many other financial challenges.  The legislation was aggressively opposed by the Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers.