State representative Dan Daley and Senator Shevrin Jones file bills to increase transparency and accountability in Florida pet insurance
Florida – Florida lawmakers are taking steps to bring greater clarity and accountability to the state’s pet insurance market, with State Representative Dan Daley and Senator Shevrin Jones filing companion bills aimed at strengthening consumer protections for pet owners. House Bill 983 and Senate Bill 158, both titled Pet Insurance, are designed to improve transparency, provide clearer information for policyholders, and enhance regulatory oversight of insurers operating in this growing sector.
The legislation targets several key areas of the pet insurance industry. Under the proposed measures, individuals who sell pet insurance would be required to complete continuing education courses specifically designed to equip them with the knowledge to advise consumers accurately about coverage options, limitations, and exclusions. In addition, the bills update disclosure requirements to ensure that essential policy details—including benefits, terms, and exclusions—are clearly communicated to customers. This effort is intended to prevent confusion and help pet owners make informed decisions about the protection of their animals.
To further support oversight, the legislation would require pet insurance companies to submit standardized annual reports to the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation. These reports would include data on policies, claims, and coverage practices, allowing regulators to monitor trends in the market and hold insurers accountable for their practices. By gathering more detailed information, regulators would be better positioned to identify issues, enforce standards, and protect consumers from misleading policies or unexpected premium increases.
Representative Daley, who owns a dog named Tally, emphasized the personal importance of the legislation. “As a proud pet owner myself, and with my own dog, Tally, keeping me on my toes, I understand how important it is to keep our beloved pets healthy and safe through reliable insurance. They are not just pets; they are members of the family,” Daley said. “HB 983 brings much-needed transparency and accountability to the pet insurance market, giving Floridians confidence that they understand what they are purchasing and ensuring providers are held to clear, consistent standards.”
Senator Jones echoed Daley’s sentiments, pointing to the challenges many pet owners face when insurance premiums rise unexpectedly or policy terms are unclear. “As a proud pet parent, I know how important pets are in our lives. I have personally encountered limited transparency and dramatically rising premiums and know how challenging these realities are when caring for a member of your family, four-legged or not,” Jones said. “Responsible pet ownership includes preparing for medical emergencies and unforeseen health needs. This bill protects consumers by promoting informed choices and holding insurers accountable for how they communicate about policies. It’s common-sense reform that supports both pet owners and providers.”
If passed, the bills would set clear standards for the sale and disclosure of pet insurance policies, ensuring that consumers have access to straightforward, reliable information. Additionally, the increased reporting requirements would provide regulators with the tools necessary to track the market and address potential problems before they escalate, creating a safer and more transparent environment for pet owners across Florida.
As the pet insurance market continues to expand, lawmakers say these measures are a critical step toward ensuring that coverage options are fair, understandable, and accessible. By requiring education for sellers, enhancing disclosure rules, and improving regulatory oversight, Florida’s new legislation seeks to protect both pets and the families who love them, offering a model for responsible and transparent practices in a rapidly growing industry.
