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In 2002, I made a commitment to improve Florida's workers' compensation system to help our state's employers and their employees. I'm proud to say that workers’ compensation insurance rates have dropped more than 30 percent over the last three years while the amount of premiums collected – an indication both of Florida’s robust economy and employer compliance – are at an all-time high. In fact, annual premiums collected have grown by more than $700 million over that same time period. Meaningful reforms, more aggressive investigation of workers’ compensation fraud and increased compliance efforts have led to a dramatic $1 billion in savings for Florida’s businesses. Improving Florida's business climate means more and better jobs for our residents, and improved access to products and services. Kudos to the hardworking men and women in the department who have helped achieve these results.
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FLORIDA CABINET DESIGNATES FIRE PREVENTION WEEK, HONORS YOUTH WHO SAVED WOMAN FROM HOME FIRE Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 8-14, Will Focus on Cooking Incidents As Leading Cause of Home Fires Governor Jeb Bush, State Fire Marshal Tom Gallagher and the other members of the Florida Cabinet designated the week of Oct. 8 to14 as Fire Prevention Week in Florida and kicked off activities by honoring a young man from Navarre who, along with two other friends, helped rescue a 64-year-old woman from a home fire in July. Tyler McArthur, 16, was presented the Cabinet’s resolution proclaiming next week as Fire Prevention Week. Early in the morning on July 5, Graves and two of his friends spotted flames and smoke coming from the garage of a home on Longview Street. They pounded on the door until a woman answered and then pulled her out to safety. Holley-Navarre Fire Department Chief Les Slocum also attended today’s Cabinet meeting. The State Fire Marshal’s Office determined the fire likely was caused by an electrical short in the attic. “These young men saved a life because of their quick and brave actions,” Gallagher said. “But tragically hundreds of Floridians are killed or injured every year by fire because they don’t have a working smoke detector or a fire escape plan.” CONTINUED |
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GALLAGHER ANNOUNCES
ARRESTS IN THREE SEPARATE WORKERS’ COMPENSATION
FRAUD CASES |
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GALLAGHER ANNOUNCES
PARTNERSHIPS WITH NON-PROFITS TO STRENGTHEN HOMES AGAINST HURRICANES 4,000 Low-Income Homeowners to be Served Chief Financial Officer Tom Gallagher announced that 4,000 low-income
homeowners will soon be safer from hurricanes thanks to new partnerships
between 12 non-profit organizations and the My Safe Florida Home program.
Through the partnerships, homeowners will receive free home inspections and
assistance to make improvements that will strengthen homes against
catastrophic losses.
“Partnering with faith- and community-based groups to help fortify low-income homes in Florida is mission critical to protecting families and reducing property losses,” said Gallagher, who oversees the My Safe Florida Home program. “Through these partnerships, we will be able to leverage resources and help thousands of Floridians before the end of this hurricane season.” CONTINUED |
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“FORTIFY FLORIDA!” BRINGS
PREPAREDNESS HOME TO PALM BEACH
Florida
Atlantic University and Florida Power & Light host town fair to help
homeowners harden homes against hurricane damage and reduce cost of
insurance
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LT. GOVERNOR JENNINGS PROMOTES ENERGY-EFFICIENT PRODUCTS DURING SALES TAX HOLIDAY THROUGH OCTOBER 11
Tax-free week
encourages Floridians to purchase ENERGY STAR™
products “Energy Efficient Week encourages consumers to invest in energy efficient products at a great savings,” said Lt. Governor Jennings. “By encouraging investment through grant programs and incentives, Florida is supporting market-based development of energy efficient products and reliable and cost-effective energy alternatives.” CONTINUED |
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FLORIDA MAINTAINS “AAA” BOND RATING IN ANNUAL REVIEW BY STANDARD AND POOR’S CORPORATION Governor Jeb Bush touted Standard and Poor’s Corporation’s decision to affirm Florida’s “AAA” bond rating in its annual review of the state. “AAA” is the firm’s highest rating. Standard and Poor’s cited Florida’s strong, conservative financial and budget management practices in affirming the “AAA” rating, first issued in 2005. “Undaunted by eight hurricanes in two years, Florida’s economy is surging. I am pleased to see that Standard and Poor’s has recognized that our low-tax, pro-business approach to government is working for Florida,” said Governor Bush. “Our reasonable tax structure and record-level financial reserves have also helped to create stability and opportunities for long-term growth, as evidenced by this rating decision.” Florida’s strong financial position has enabled the state to increase funding for economic development and provide tax relief to residents and businesses. Florida’s unemployment rate is 3.3 percent, 1.5 percentage points below the national rate of 4.8 percent. The state continues to be a national model for job creation with an annual job growth rate that is more than twice the national average. CONTINUED |
