Florida's auto insurance no-fault law expired today, ending automatic personal injury protection for the state's citizens, and Gov. Charlie Crist reacted by saying he would have legislators take up the issue when they meet on Wednesday.
Gov. Crist called for the insurance matter to be part of the special session that begins then. Originally scheduled just for budget issues, the session is due to run through Oct. 12.
"Personal injury protection insurance is very important to the people of Florida, and $10,000 in coverage provides a minimum safeguard," said Gov. Crist. "I am encouraging members of the House and Senate to reach consensus and ensure the continuation of this important consumer protection."
Gov. Crist also announced that the legislature will call a special session to be scheduled later in October to address property tax relief in time for a constitutional amendment to be placed on the Jan. 29, 2008, ballot.
In response to the Republican governor's announcement, the state's Democratic chief financial officer, Alex Sink, said she commended the governor's action.
"With suitable reform, including an increase in anti-fraud measures and instituting cost controls, Florida's no-fault system and personal injury protection coverage will provide essential protection for our motorists," she said. "I will continue working with the governor and legislative leaders to achieve substantial reform on this issue over the next two weeks."
Various groups had called for the insurance issue to be part of the special session, arguing that without the personal injury insurance provided under no-fault, the courts will be overburdened with lawsuits, and many people will have difficulty paying the medical costs of injuries.
Opponent of the existing no-fault law argued that the system was riddled with fraud.
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