Details Bedevil Lawmakers on Insurance Reform

The specifics of the bill seem rather cloudy. For example, the estimates on rate reduction range from 5 percent to 40 percent.

That's one reason why lawmakers are scrutinizing the full bill. One thing is clear - if there isn't enough money to make payouts after a massive storm like Hurricane Katrina - or even after a monstrous season with multiple storms - Floridians will have to pony up billions in damages either through taxes or assessments on auto and home policies.

Still, proponents of the bill say it provides much-needed short-term relief for rate payers, while providing the infrastructure to increase competition. If the bill is passed, it will then go to Republican Gov. Charlie Crist for his approval or veto.