Florida Senate Democrats have introduced the Affordability Agenda, a legislative plan designed to address rising property insurance costs across the state. The proposal, announced ahead of the 2026 Legislative Session, aims to provide relief to homeowners and renters facing increasing premiums and limited coverage options. Recent developments, such as historic rate cut proposals by Florida Peninsula Insurance, have signaled a shift in the market, offering hope for more affordable options.

Affordability Agenda Targets Property Insurance Crisis

The Affordability Agenda is a six-bill package focused on curbing property insurance costs and improving consumer protections in Florida. According to official statements from Senate Democrats, the plan addresses several factors contributing to the state’s insurance market instability, including the recent surge in profits among Florida’s property insurance companies.

Senate Democratic Leader Lori Berman of Boynton Beach emphasized the urgency of the issue, stating that affordability remains the top concern for residents. She called on lawmakers to support the measures, which aim to cap rate increases, accelerate claims processing, and enhance transparency.

Key Bills in the Affordability Agenda

The legislative package includes the following bills, each targeting a specific aspect of the property insurance system:

• SB 30 (Sen. Barbara Sharief): Limits annual property insurance rate increases to between 10% and 15%. Grants the Florida Insurance Consumer Advocate authority to hold hearings and issue subpoenas to challenge insurer pricing and practices.
• SB 78 (Sen. Rosalind Osgood): Makes permanent the sales tax exemption for impact-resistant windows, doors, and garage doors, encouraging homeowners to invest in storm protection.
• SB 84 (Sen. Lori Berman): Establishes an Insurance Solutions Advisory Council to collect market data on property and auto insurance, providing annual recommendations to lawmakers and the Florida Governor.
• SB 108 (Sen. Tina Scott Polsky): Requires mediation as the initial step for disputed residential property insurance claims, aiming to resolve issues outside of court and reduce legal expenses for homeowners.
• SB 128 (Sen. LaVon Bracy Davis): Addresses nonrenewals linked to roof age. Insurers would be required to notify homeowners of inspection rights and reimburse inspection costs if a roof has at least five years of useful life remaining.
• SB 140 (Sen. Darryl Rouson): Expands whistleblower protections for insurance company employees and contractors who report illegal or unethical conduct, shielding them from retaliation.

Legislative Leaders and Supporters

Several Senate Democrats joined Leader Lori Berman in announcing the Affordability Agenda at the Capitol. Supporters include Sens. Mack Bernard, LaVon Bracy Davis, Tracie Davis, Rosalind Osgood, Tina Scott Polsky, Darryl Rouson, Barbara Sharief, and Carlos Guillermo Smith.

During the announcement, lawmakers highlighted the impact of high property insurance costs on both homeowners and renters in Florida. According to official statements, the proposed bills are intended to strengthen consumer rights and stabilize the insurance market. Notably, recent rate cuts by Florida Peninsula Insurance have been cited as a positive step toward much-needed relief for homeowners.

Focus on Consumer Protections and Transparency

Transparency and consumer protection are central themes in the Affordability Agenda. The proposed authority for the Insurance Consumer Advocate and the creation of an advisory council are designed to provide oversight and ensure fair practices in the industry.

According to Senate Democrats, the package also seeks to prevent unfair policy nonrenewals and support homeowners in making storm-resistant upgrades. The mediation requirement for disputed claims is expected to reduce costly litigation and speed up resolutions.

Response from Lawmakers and Next Steps

Senate Democratic Leader Lori Berman urged bipartisan cooperation to advance the Affordability Agenda. She stated that the out-of-control property insurance market affects all Floridians, regardless of whether they own or rent their homes.

The 2026 Legislative Session is scheduled to begin on January 13, 2026. Lawmakers will consider the six-bill package and other proposals aimed at addressing the state’s ongoing insurance challenges. Details may be updated as the legislative process continues.

Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Property Insurance Costs

What is the Affordability Agenda for property insurance in Florida?

The Affordability Agenda is a set of six bills introduced by Senate Democrats to address rising property insurance costs in Florida. The plan aims to cap rate increases, improve consumer protections, and increase transparency in the insurance market.

How much could property insurance rates be capped under the new proposals?

According to the proposed SB 30, annual property insurance rate increases would be limited to between 10% and 15%. This cap is designed to protect homeowners from steep premium hikes.

Are there new protections for homeowners facing nonrenewal due to roof age?

Yes, SB 128 would require insurers to notify homeowners of their right to a roof inspection before dropping coverage due to roof age. If the roof has at least five years of useful life left, the insurer must reimburse the inspection cost.

Can you resolve property insurance claim disputes without going to court?

Under SB 108, mediation would be required as the first step for disputed residential property insurance claims. This process aims to help homeowners and insurers reach agreements without expensive court proceedings.

Where are these property insurance reforms being proposed?

These reforms are being proposed in the Florida Senate and are scheduled for consideration during the 2026 Legislative Session. The measures are intended to address property insurance issues statewide.

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