"Idalia's Impact: The Alarming Surge in Insurance Rates"

Hurricane Idalia's destruction in Florida raises concerns about rising insurance rates, with damaged homes and businesses generating insurance claims and worries about rate increases or dropped customers. Currently, 14 insurance companies are in liquidation, and state-run Citizens, the insurance of last resort, will likely see a 12% increase in premiums. Lawmakers have passed bills to reduce claim disputes, but some predict lower payouts to policyholders. Former state senator Jeff Brandes believes these measures will lead to fewer premium hikes and more competition in the insurance market by 2025. Democrat Alex Sink calls for Republican leaders to attract more private companies to lower premiums, as Florida is already an unaffordable state for many.