The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation approved a statewide 1% reduction in workers' compensation insurance rates, according to a final order issued this week by state Insurance Commissioner Mike Yaworsky. The decrease was proposed by the National Council on Compensation Insurance, or NCCI, earlier this year. Florida businesses have consistently experienced declining workers' compensation rates in recent years, with a 15.1% rate drop in 2024 and an 8.4% decrease in 2023. Earlier this year, lawmakers passed and Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bipartisan bill (SB 362) aimed at increasing the number of providers willing to treat workers' compensation patients by boosting reimbursement rates, which regulators said prevents a larger drop in rates this year. Slated to take effect Jan. 1, the new law increases the pay doctors get to 175% of the Medicare rate, with surgeons qualifying for a maximum reimbursement rate of 210%. The measure also boosts reimbursement rates for medical expert witnesses who testify in workers' compensation cases. NCCI said that without the new law, its proposed overall rate decrease would have been 6.4%. "I'm pleased to announce that Florida businesses will see a further reduction in workers' compensation rates for the eighth consecutive year," Yaworsky said. "Following historic legislative reforms in this space, it is abundantly clear that the workers' compensation market in Florida is stable and competitive." The recently-approved 1% statewide reduction will apply to new and renewal policies starting Jan. 1, 2025. OIR Press release / Insurance Journal / Florida Politics / Florida Phoenix / Florida Channel (Video)

Florida’s unemployment rate remained stable at 3.3% in September for the sixth consecutive month, with 368,000 residents classified as unemployed, as reported by the state Department of Commerce. The U.S. Department of Labor noted a sharp drop in Florida jobless claims, from nearly 10,000 to just over 6,100 last week. However, the state’s labor force saw a net decline of 6,000 workers, attributed mainly to retirements among Baby Boomers and Gen X, marking the sixth consecutive monthly decrease and the first year-over-year labor force reduction since February 2021. “Retirements and an aging workforce are key drivers of this trend,” said Jimmy Heckman, Florida Commerce’s Chief of Workforce Statistics, who highlighted stable labor force participation among working-age adults aged 25-54. The economic impact of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which recently impacted Florida’s Gulf Coast, is not yet captured in these figures as assessment continues. Nationally, initial jobless claims also saw a decrease, with the U.S. unemployment rate at 4.1% for September. Click here to read the unemployment figures, and click here to read more.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming a versatile tool for HVAC contracting businesses, offering solutions for various tasks such as dispatch management, job estimation, marketing, and even bill collection. Companies like Workiz and ServiceTitan use AI to streamline operations, from optimizing scheduling and dispatch to analyzing customer calls and enhancing marketing efforts. AI tools can handle administrative burdens, freeing contractors to focus on technical work and improving efficiency. These advancements not only aid in business operations but also create job opportunities and offer significant benefits for marketing and customer service. As AI continues to evolve, its integration with IoT technology promises further enhancements in service and customer satisfaction. Click here to read more.

The waiver of consequential damages in construction contracts involves both parties agreeing not to pursue claims for indirect losses, such as loss of income or productivity, resulting from a breach of contract. These damages are often difficult to quantify and can be significant, potentially affecting a contractor's business or an owner's financial standing. By waiving such claims, parties aim to reduce uncertainty and potential disputes.

However, this waiver must be carefully drafted to avoid ambiguity. Courts may interpret the provision differently based on its wording and related contract clauses, such as indemnity or liquidated damages provisions. Clear definitions and specific language are crucial to ensure the waiver is enforceable and understood by all parties, including subcontractors.Click here to read more.

J.A. Croson, a Florida-based plumbing and HVAC contractor, has agreed to pay $1.6 million to settle a racial harassment and retaliation lawsuit filed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The lawsuit claimed that Black and Hispanic employees faced a hostile work environment marked by racial slurs, derogatory language, and unfair assignments, with some workers retaliated against after reporting the abuse. The settlement includes compensation for 17 employees, along with measures like a harassment hotline, employee training, and work environment audits to prevent future discrimination.

This case highlights ongoing issues of racial and national origin harassment in the construction industry, which the EEOC is committed to addressing. The settlement reinforces the importance of fair and inclusive treatment of all employees, as emphasized in the EEOC’s broader mission to eliminate workplace discrimination. For more information, visit the EEOC’s website. Click here for more information.

In the residential HVAC market, "high-end" products are increasingly associated with high efficiency, particularly due to the range of incentives available for such equipment, including those from the federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and local utility programs. OEMs and HVAC-specialized marketing companies have effectively integrated these efficiency incentives into their strategies, highlighting the financial savings and long-term cost benefits of high-end products. Contractors can leverage these incentives by simply informing homeowners about them, which can lead to increased adoption of energy-efficient systems.

To facilitate this, companies like A.O. Smith, GE Appliances, and Daikin Comfort Technologies have developed tools and resources to assist contractors in marketing high-efficiency products. These include rebate-finders and product-rating tools, as well as direct communication about available incentives. Marketing experts emphasize the importance of focused messaging, urging contractors to stay informed about local and national incentives and to simplify the application process for homeowners. By making efficiency incentives a key selling point, contractors can enhance the appeal of high-end HVAC products while contributing to greater energy efficiency in residential spaces. Click here to read more.

Florida's Disaster Contractors Network (DCN) is an essential resource for Floridians to include in their hurricane preparedness, especially as Hurricane Helene approaches. Established by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), the free network connects homeowners affected by storm damage with licensed contractors for repairs and construction. DCN ensures that only qualified, state-licensed contractors—who have the necessary education, insurance, and experience—can be involved, protecting homeowners from fraud.

After the storm, homeowners can use DCNOnline.org to request contractor services in their area, while contractors can also register to assist. The network has successfully supported hurricane recovery efforts in the past, helping connect victims of Hurricanes Ian, Michael, and Charley with reliable, licensed professionals. Click here to read more.

ACCA's advocacy efforts have led to significant victories for HVACR contractors under the EPA's new HFC management rule, minimizing regulatory burdens while phasing down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). Key wins include the elimination of a mandate for reclaimed HFCs in initial charges, with narrowed requirements for servicing specific systems like supermarket refrigeration. Contractors also benefit from a flexible cylinder return option, allowing technicians to evacuate and dispose of cylinders themselves, bypassing certified reclaimers. Additionally, ACCA successfully blocked the implementation of a QR code tracking system for refrigerant cylinders, avoiding administrative complications. These changes ensure practical solutions for contractors while maintaining environmental compliance.

ACCA continues to advocate for the industry, particularly on technician training and certification related to flammable refrigerants, and remains committed to ensuring that future regulations align with real-world conditions. Contractors can stay informed through ACCA’s policy team for ongoing updates and guidance. Click here to read more.

Florida's minimum wage will rise to $13 an hour starting Monday, continuing the gradual increase mandated by a 2020 constitutional amendment, which aims to reach a $15 minimum wage by 2026. 

The amendment, led by Orlando lawyer John Morgan, set annual wage hikes beginning with $10 per hour in 2021. Tipped employees will see their wage increase to $9.98 an hour. After reaching $15 in 2026, future increases will be tied to inflation. The federal minimum wage remains $7.25 an hour. News Service Florida

A recent survey highlights trends in homeowner and contractor familiarity with smart HVAC features. Smart thermostats are the most recognized devices among homeowners, but awareness diminishes regarding other smart products like filters, vents, and dampers. Despite high recognition of smart thermostats, adoption remains low, at around 17-20%. Factors such as government incentives, rising energy costs, and increased awareness have fueled interest, yet many consumers still prioritize other smart home devices.

Experts indicate that while the smart thermostat market has significant growth potential, adoption has been moderated by trends in new home construction and changing consumer spending habits. As technology advances and smart home systems become more integrated, the role of professional HVAC contractors is expected to expand, particularly regarding data privacy and the complexity of installations. Overall, the smart thermostat market is set for continued growth, providing opportunities for contractors to enhance energy efficiency for homeowners. Click here to read more.