Contractors Protest at Florida Workers’ Comp Commission Meeting

Florida contractors mounted a protest at a meeting with the Governor’s Commission on Workers’ Compensation, insisting that a new law requiring all workers to be covered by workers’ comp on commercial construction projects will drive them out of business. According to the Florida Insurance Council, many contractors want the Legislature to meet in special session and to address problems with the law.

The contractors are upset about SB 108, which became effective in Florida July 1. It tightens the use of workers’ comp exemptions and requires contractors on commercial projects valued at more than $250,000 to provide workers’ comp coverage for their employees. The Florida Home Builders Association backed the law.

Contractors are doubly concerned because the new law took effect at a time when an availability crisis in the market is making it difficult for many contractors to obtain coverage. Others complain that the law was poorly drafted and is difficult to enforce.

The Florida Department of Insurance issued an administrative rule in mid-August clarifying the exemptions that are allowed under the new law.

Topics Florida Legislation Workers' Compensation Contractors