Southeast AIA to watch Fla., Ala. and Miss. legislation

Managing the aftermath of the 2005 hurricanes from a legislative standpoint in Florida, Alabama and Mississippi will be the American Insurance Association’s biggest goal in 2006.

“Managing the aftermath successfully includes minimizing onerous insurance legislation and regulation and keeping the lines of communication open with all the parties that are key to recovery, such as independent agents, regulators and key policymakers,” Julie Pulliam, AIA’s Southeast Region spokesperson explained. “We will be getting an early start as the Mississippi Legislature began Jan. 3.”

Pulliam said that in terms of specific legislation, passage of asbestos/
silica reform legislation in Florida and George were key accomplishments. She said a primary goal in 2006 will be workers’ compensation reform in South Carolina.

“This includes elimination of the Second Injury Fund and numerous other reforms to an increasingly costly system for employers and insurers,” she said.