In the wake of the recent court ruling finding Florida’s countersignature law unconstitutional, how should agents deal with Florida countersignature requirements?  That question has been posed by a PIA National board member. PIA Senior Vice President Patricia A. Borowski counsels caution at this juncture.

Florida's countersignature law, while declared unconstitutional, is still on the books. The Florida DOI must issue instructions as to how to proceed in light of the decision; it is our understanding that these instructions are still being drafted. In addition, an appeal of the court's decision by the state of Florida is possible.

What It Means to Agents: If you are working on a policy or surety bond involving Florida, we recommend that you request specific instructions from your insurer on policies needing countersignature. Ask your carrier what they intend to do.