NU Online News Service, March 9, 11:07 p.m. EST

Florida Gov. Rick Scott (right) was joined by Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty (left) and Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater (center) for a news conference late yesterday to encourage the passage of a measure to reform the state's no-fault, personal injury protection auto insurance system.

Today is the final day of the state legislative session.

The insurance industry has lobbied for some relief to fix what many call a broken auto insurance system, plagued by abuse and outright fraud.

"Right now Florida drivers are stuck swimming in a pool of sharks," says Atwater. "In the next 24 hours, you're going to see whether the lesigature throws them a lifeline, or just walks away."

"I believe the House and Senate are going to do the right thing," Scott adds.

Early this morning amendments to HB 119 were filed. The bill will go back to the House, which has already passed the measure, for reconsideration with amendments before the bill returns to the Senate.

HB 119, among many things, would change the way accident reports are taken; provide coverage limits; establish a schedule of maximum charges; create a list of diagnostic tests deemed not to be medically necessary; and control attorneys' fees.

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