Florida Republican Mayors Association back legislation from Rick Scott fixing property insurance affordability

HIALEAH — Members of the Florida Republican Mayors Assocation announced Tuesday they are backing legislation introduced by Florida Sen. Rick Scott that would address property insurance affordability currently affecting Florida residents.

“We are in support of Senator Rick Scott’s Homeowners Premium Reduction Act that will provide an annual $10,000 in tax relief from homeowners’ insurance which will go a long way in helping Florida homeowners who are struggling to make ends meet for reasons outside of their control,” Chairman Mayor Esteban "Steve" Bovo said in a press release.

Bovo also has served as Mayor of Hialeah since 2021.

The Homeowners Premium Tax Reduction Act was introduced by Scott in August in response to Hurricane Debby. The storm swept across Florida's Big Bend region damaging power lines, trees, homes, and businesses.

“It was great to be with members of the Florida Republican Mayors Association to discuss the issues most important to Florida families. While we fight for Florida families and to help folks keep more of their hard-earned money, I am grateful to have the association’s support for my Homeowners Premium Reduction Act,” Scott said in the release.

The Florida Republican Mayors Assocation, or FRMA, are a coalition of mayors from across the state. The roundtable discussion included Miami Mayor Francis Saurez, West Miami Mayor Eric Diaz Padron, Sunny Isles Mayor Larissa Svechin, and St. Augustine Mayor Dylan Rumrell.

Specifically, Rumrell suggested that the federal government recognize municipal investment projects to mitigate flood damage, including in St. Augustine. The policy would reflect a decrease in flood insurance premiums to residents who also benefit from the project but currently does not occur.

“We understand there is no silver bullet that will solve this problem. As a Mayor and as a homeowner, I look forward to continue working with Senator Scott and all our elected officials on the municipal, state and federal levels to find solutions that will alleviate the cost of property insurance," Bovo continued.