Florida State Capitol
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – A new report shows recent Florida tort reforms are delivering significant benefits to consumers, job creation and the state’s overall business climate.
The report by the American Property Casualty Insurance Association highlights a new economic analysis from The Perryman Group that outlines the measurable economic and fiscal gains resulting from reforms enacted in recent years.
A copy of the report, titled The Economic Benefits of Effects of Tort Reform on Property and Casualty Insurance Rates in the State of Florida, can be found here.
Zielezienski
“Florida’s tort reforms are achieving exactly what policymakers intended – bringing balance to the civil justice system, reducing excessive costs, and strengthening the state’s economic foundation,” said Stef Zielezienski, APCIA’s executive vice president and chief legal officer. “The Perryman analysis confirms that these reforms are driving down insurance costs for consumers and businesses, encouraging insurers to return to the market, and generating billions in economic activity that benefits every corner of the state.
“As litigation systems become more balanced and predictable, families, job creators, and communities see results – from more affordable insurance to increased economic opportunity.”
The president of a Florida legal reform group agreed.
Large
“Over the past several years, the Florida Legislature and Gov. Ron DeSantis have shown that smart policies can lower the cost of living on Floridians,” said William Large, president of the Florida Justice Reform Institute. “Decisive actions taken in 2022-2023 to curb legal system abuse in the auto and property insurance market is helping drive down insurance premiums, creating more stability in the market, and giving Floridians more affordable options for coverage.
“The Perryman report is further proof that by protecting Florida against wasteful civil litigation while also promoting fair and equitable legal practices, Floridians will see real savings.”
According to the study, major legislation— including SB 2-A and HB 837—has helped rebalance Florida’s civil justice system, reduce excessive litigation costs, and stabilize the state’s insurance market. These reforms already have led to substantial reductions in property and casualty insurance costs, increased private-market competition and meaningful economic gains across the state.
Among the key findings in the report:
Florida’s tort reforms have driven an average 14.5% reduction in property and casualty insurance costs compared to what would have occurred without reform
Lower insurance costs and improved market stability have contributed to more companies entering or returning to the Florida market, expanding choice and competition for consumers.
These cost savings generate more than $4.2 billion in annual gross product and support approximately 29,370 jobs statewide, including multiplier effects.
The reforms also produce substantial fiscal gains each year – $206.6 million in new state tax revenue and $155.3 million for local governments across Florida.
By reducing excessive litigation, the reforms help curb unpredictability, lower insurance premiums, and improve efficiency across key industries.
“In addition, the report notes that the benefits of tort reform will continue to compound over time, further improving Florida’s legal climate, stabilizing insurance markets, and promoting long-term economic growth,” Zielezienski said. “APCIA commends Florida lawmakers for taking meaningful action to reduce excessive legal system costs while preserving the ability of legitimately harmed individuals to seek fair compensation.
“We encourage legislatures across the country to build on Florida’s example and enact reforms that deliver real savings for consumers and strengthen local economies.”
APCIA is the primary national trade association for home, auto and business insurers. It promotes and protects the viability of private competition for the benefit of consumers and insurers.
