Jim Saunders and Tom Urban - News Service of Florida

As Citizens Property Insurance Corp. waits for a decision on a plan that would lead to double-digit rate increases for customers, the state-backed insurer remains on a path to grow to 1.7 million policies by the end of the year.

The bill, SB 252, includes issues such as barring businesses and government agencies from requiring people to take COVID-19 tests or wear masks to enter their facilities.

Justices formally agreed to take up the case and issued a schedule that indicated it will be at least until late April before briefs are filed. Lawmakers have indicated they would wait until after a ruling before deciding on additional legislation.

It contends, in part, that the CDC has overstepped its legal authority in requiring masks for travelers.

GOP lawmakers say the state needs to take steps to address immigration enforcement because of failures of the federal government.

Republicans on the Health Policy Committee voted unanimously to back Dr. Joseph Ladapo’s confirmation, which ultimately needs approval from the full Senate.

The Senate Judiciary Committee backed a proposal that would help shield health providers from lawsuits until June 1, 2023.

The bill allows Florida private-sector workers to avoid vaccination requirements if they provide medical reasons, religious reasons or can demonstrate “COVID-19 immunity.” Also, if they agree to regular COVID-19 testing or wear personal protective equipment.

Citizens was originally created as an insurer of last resort, but it has seen huge growth since mid-2020 as private insurers have raised rates and reduced policies to try to stem financial losses.

Said Ladapo: “The state should be promoting good health. Vaccination is not the only path to that.