Latin American Association of Insurance Agencies holds its annual convention on Marco Island

A convention is set for Southwest Florida in the final week of July to help insurance agents deal with the state’s evolving industry changes.

The 56th Annual Latin American Association of Insurance Agencies (LAAIA) Convention will draw agency owners, carriers and agents from across the state to Marco Island. The event runs from July 29 through Aug. 1 at the JW Marriott Beach Resort and will feature updates on how to deal with radically changing insurance regulations in Florida.

The event is sponsored by Heritage Property & Casualty Insurance Co. and will spotlight independent agencies.

“Heritage is excited to once again attend the LAAIA Annual Conference and connect with the independent agents and leaders who help strengthen Florida’s insurance market. Independent agents are trusted advisors who provide invaluable guidance to policyholders every day,” said Ernie Garateix, CEO of Heritage Insurance.

Garateix was the 2025 Fernando Gimenez Jr. Insurance Man of the Year for the LAAIA. He will be co-hosting many of the events with the current LAAIA President, Al Mendez.

“At Heritage, we value the strong partnerships we’ve built with our agent network and remain committed to listening, collaborating, and finding new ways to better support their success. Opportunities like the LAAIA Convention allow us to deepen those relationships and reinforce our shared commitment to serving Florida families and businesses,” Garateix said.

State lawmakers approved insurance tort reform measures in 2023 and changed regulations for property damage insurance claims and lawsuits.

Florida’s Office of Insurance Regulation this month published its Property Insurance Stability Report, which was encouraging to the industry and residents of Florida. The report showed property insurance claims saw a sharp drop in 2025, and the number of lawsuits filed over property insurance claims has also fallen dramatically.

The LAAIA promotes legislative advocacy, along with education and mentorship, in an effort to strengthen the independent agent community. The gathering on Marco Island is one of the most significant conventions in the region to support networking within the industry.

There will be more than 100 exhibits at the convention, along with educational sessions, a roster of various industry speakers, and networking events each evening.