About the Guest:
Don Brown is a former Florida State Legislator who combines practical insurance industry experience with public policy expertise. His background as an insurance agency owner and legislator has given him unique insights into the challenges facing Florida’s insurance market. Currently, he serves as a consultant and author, focusing on building code improvements and insurance policy reform. His recent book draws from both his personal experiences and policy insights to provide guidance on effective change implementation.
Key Topics Discussed:
1. Rural Florida Background and Early Influences
2. Insurance Industry Experience
3. Public Policy and problem solving
4. Building Codes and Construction Standards
5. Risk Management Philosophy
Resources Mentioned:
“Nine Guiding Principles to Enact Change” (Don Brown’s book)
Principal 1 – Pay for hurricane risk with private capital rather than public debt
Principal 2 – Free-market competition best ensures insurance availability and affordability
Principal 3 – Government intervention should be limited, cautious, and temporary
Principal 4 -People have a right to liver where they choose but shouldn’t expect other to subsidize risky choices
Principal 5 – Subsidized insurance should not cover investment or vacation properties
Principal 6 – Subsidies for primary residences should be temporary
Principal 7 – Government must act to protect citizens including: 1. Fortifying homes through building codes and mitigation and 2. Direct subsidies for low-income or fixed-income homeowners at risk from rising costs
Principal 8 – Policy solutions must have comprehensive implementation plans that outline: 1 Homeowners’ responsibilities, 2. Insurers’ obligations, and 3. Government’s role
Principal 9 – Consider tax relief and non-insurance solutions to reduce homeownership costs