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HB 863

Arbitration for Disputes with Citizens Property Insurance Corporation

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Yvette Benarroch and 1 co-sponsor

HB 863 mandates arbitration for Citizens Property Insurance Corporation policyholder disputes, replacing litigation to accelerate claim resolution and reduce court congestion in Florida.

Bill added to Special Order Calendar (2/4/2026)
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Bill Summary · HB 863

Legislative bill overview

HB 863 establishes mandatory arbitration as a dispute resolution mechanism for disagreements between policyholders and Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, Florida's insurer of last resort. The bill streamlines the process for resolving coverage disputes outside of litigation while maintaining Citizens Property Insurance Corporation's role as the state's property insurance provider for those unable to obtain coverage in the private market.

Why is this important

Citizens Property Insurance Corporation covers approximately 1.3 million policies, representing roughly 10% of Florida's property insurance market. Arbitration could reduce court backlogs, lower costs for both insurers and policyholders, and provide faster claim resolution—critical in a state vulnerable to hurricanes and natural disasters where prompt dispute resolution directly impacts recovery and reconstruction timelines.

Potential points of contention

  • Limiting legal recourse: Mandatory arbitration eliminates the right to jury trials and appellate review, reducing consumer protections and ability to challenge insurer decisions
  • Binding vs. non-binding structure: Unclear whether arbitration outcomes are binding or advisory, affecting enforceability and the incentive for good-faith participation
  • Cost allocation: Ambiguity over who bears arbitration costs (filing fees, arbitrator compensation) could deter lower-income policyholders from pursuing legitimate disputes

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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