Penberthy Calls for Federal Insurance Reform
Guidelines would reduce reliance on Florida's insurer of last resort
WESLEY CHAPEL, Fla.- March 10, 2006 - As state lawmakers prepare to debate measures to shore-up Citizens Property Insurance Corp., Florida's debt ridden insurer of last resort, U.S. Congressional candidate Rick Penberthy called for federal insurance reform to protect American homeowners.
"The problem that Florida is facing...
with Citizens is a symptom of a larger problem," Penberthy said. "When no one is watching out for homeowners and insurance companies are making all of the decisions, families are increasingly left with few and expensive options."
Citizen's financial trouble has been attributed in part to a spike in enrollment by homeowners from sinkhole prone areas like Pasco and Hernando counties who have been forced into the state's insurer of last resort because private insurance companies refused to cover them.
Penberthy's plan would explore guidelines to clarify and limit situations in which insurance companies could deny homeowners coverage.
"There are hardworking families here in District Five and across the United States who are being denied the American dream of home ownership because insurance companies' interests are being put first," Penberthy said. "It's time we put homeowners first, reform insurance practices and establish common sense coverage guidelines."
Penberthy drew a contrast between his priorities and those of his opponent Rep. Brown-Waite.
"As a Congressman, my first priority will always be the best interests of my constituents," Penberthy said. "With all of my opponent's friends in the insurance industry, it's hard to imagine that she can honestly say the same."
During the current election cycle, the insurance industry has contributed more than any other industry to Brown-Waite's campaign.
"I'm committed to moving past the politics and presenting a positive agenda to the voters of District Five," Penberthy said. "People are tired of the rhetoric and ready for solutions. I understand that and that's why I support this type of reform."
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Media Contact: Kevin Cate, Campaign Manager?kevincate@gmail.com (813) 394-0457
Penberthy is a candidate for U.S. Congress running against Rep. Brown-Waite in Florida's Fifth Congressional District. It includes all of Citrus, Hernando and Sumter Counties and parts of Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco and Polk Counties. For more information, visit http://www.RickForCongress.com