Staff Reports
The Senate Appropriations Committee voted 11-2 to approve a bill that specifies minimum insurance requirements for ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft.
Logan McFaddin, the state government relations manager for the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America, said in a statement:
“Transportation Network Companies (TNCs), like Uber and Lyft, have skyrocketed in popularity among consumers here in Florida, but many people do not realize there are gaps in insurance coverage. The insurance coverage concerns are significant especially if ride share drivers use their personal vehicles for this commercial activity, but only have personal auto insurance coverage. The standard personal auto insurance policy may not provide coverage if the vehicle is being used for commercial purposes and an accident were to occur.
“PCI and our members support some elements of SB 1118 and we appreciate Senator Simmons’ efforts to address issues with insurance coverage for TNCs.
“PCI continues to support the model legislation that was agreed upon last March between TNCs and the insurance industry and has already been approved in 29 other states. Our ultimate goal is to make sure the public is protected and ride share drivers have adequate insurance if an accident were to occur.
“As we approach the last few weeks of session, we encourage lawmakers to arrive at a solution that has reasonable insurance requirements for TNC drivers from the time the app is turned on to the time the app is turned off.”
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Americans for Prosperity-Florida is urging lawmakers to oppose incentive packages making their way through the Florida Senate.
Chris Hudson, state director for Americans for Prosperity-Florida, said in a statement:
“Legislators should double down on helping Florida families and entrepreneurs pursue the American dream,” Hudson said. “The best way they can do that is by continuing to focus on cutting onerous red tape and strategically cutting taxes. Those impacts far outweigh even the supposed short term gains that failed targeted tax credits and incentive spending programs deliver. Florida’s economy has bounced back because our economic infrastructure outpaces almost all other states. That’s why people and businesses want to come to Florida!”
