PIP bill gains traction

The Senate Banking and Insurance Committee passed a bill this week targeting fraud in Florida's automotive personal injury protection (PIP) insurance industry.

Senate Bill 1930, sponsored by Sen. Ellyn Bogdanoff, R-Fort Lauderdale, provides consumer protection against staged auto accidents. It includes provisions that crack down on scams, and it offers tools to help law enforcement officers fight motor vehicle PIP fraud at the scene of the crime.

Sen. Garrett Richter, R-Naples, chairs the committee and supported the measure along with Sen. President pro-tempore Mike Bennett, R-Bradenton. Sen. Mike Fasano, R-New Port Richey voted against the bill in the 7-4 vote.