Fla. Launches WC Policy Tracking Database

Florida’s Chief Financial Officer Tom Gallagher announced a new online database designed to send automatic electronic notification to primary contractors who sign up for the service concerning changes to a subcontractor’s workers’ compensation coverage status.

Florida law requires a contractor to verify that subcontractors either have workers’ compensation or a valid exemption. Contractors whose subcontractor’s policy has been canceled may be liable for injuries received by employees of the subcontractor.

“This database will be an excellent tool for contractors who need to receive updated policy information on the subcontractors they hire,” Gallagher said. “If a subcontractor cancels its policy or fails to pay the required premium, the contractor will receive an email notification from the department.”

The “Construction Policy Tracking Database” can be accessed through the department’s website at www.fldfs.com by clicking the workers’ compensation construction icon. A brief online registration process is required to receive notification. For identification purposes, the federal ID number of each subcontractor must be entered to complete registration. If the federal ID number is not yet on file, the subcontractor’s workers’ compensation policy number will also be required.

In addition to making this database available to contractors, the Department of Financial Services is holding several workshops around the state to educate employers on new legislation affecting employers who must purchase workers’ compensation. Department representatives will discuss Senate Bill 50A, which was signed into law July 15th. Topics to be covered include compliance requirements, changes in exemptions and the new database. Builders and contractors in the construction industry, insurance carrier representatives and insurance agents, and officials with city and county governments are encouraged to attend.

The first meeting was held in Jacksonville late last month. Additional meetings will be held in Pensacola, Panama City, Tampa and South Florida.