Rep. Bill Proctor and Sen. Mike Bennett, sponsors of the insurance rate deregulation bill (HB1171) vetoed earlier today by Gov. Charlie Crist, are among the many legislation supporters (AIF, Florida Chamber, to name some) who are issuing statements of "disappointment" in his decision.

But the joint statement issued by the lawmakers is significant in hinting at plans to seek a veto override. That would require a 2/3 vote by both chambers. During session the bill got yes votes from 85 percent of the Legislature.

Read the Proctor-Bennett letter here. And keep reading for AIF President Barney Bishop's pointed statement...

“Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) and our business members are profoundly disappointed that Governor Crist will not allow Florida consumers to reap the benefits of receiving insurance coverage from any company of their choice. Our Governor has earned recognition thus far in his administration for artificially limiting the cost of property insurance in Florida, but today he has taken a turn for the worst with his veto of HB 1171. The Consumer Choice Act would have allowed many Floridians who can afford property insurance to stay with their current, trusted company rather than being forced to rely on Citizens.   

Unfortunately, as a result of today’s veto of HB 1171, hundreds of thousands of homeowners will have to switch to a thinly-financed insurance company they have never heard that will charge them as much, if not more than, their current insurer. Stabilizing Florida’s insurance market is one of the most important issues facing our state and today’s veto not only limits market competition, but also leaves many Floridians unprotected. AIF will come back next year, and every year after, to ask Florida’s elected leaders to give consumers real choice for their property insurance needs.”