Message from the Florida CFO Jimmy Patronis on 2019 Accomplishments ...........

Released by CFO Jimmy Patronis’ Office …

Floridians,

Since day one, I have been laser focused on ensuring Florida’s economic success, protecting first responders, and fighting for our consumers. 2019 was no different. As a new year approaches, I wanted to highlight some of our 2019 accomplishments that are helping move Florida forward in 2020 and beyond.

Fighting for First Responders
In 2019, my top priority was to add benefits for Florida’s firefighters as they battle cancer. With the increased rates of cancer-related deaths for firefighters, the unanimous passage of this bill is a monumental victory for these heroes across the state.

Having championed legislation in 2018 relating to PTSD Benefits for First Responders, we also worked with numerous stakeholders through the rulemaking process in 2019 to ratify the rules implementing important benefits including vital PTSD education requirements for Florida’ first responders.

Advocating for Consumers

My Division of Consumer Services recovered more than $31.5 million on behalf of Hurricane Michael Victims through our Insurance Consumer Helpline, and we proudly hosted seven Insurance Villages in the Florida Panhandle to assist with $4.1 million in insurance claims payments for storm victims.

My Division of Unclaimed Property returned more than 585,000 accounts to Floridians valued at more than $323 million in 2019. Since July 2017, the Division broke the previously held record set in the program’s 58-year history and returned more than $803.9 million.

In 2020, I look forward to continuing to tackle our state’s fraud epidemic, safeguarding Floridians from identity theft, and strengthening our economy and workforce. These priorities not only protect Floridians, but they also protect the economic future of the Sunshine State.

Together, we’re working every day to build a better, stronger Florida!

Sincerely,

Jimmy Patronis

Chief Financial Officer

State of Florida