Florida Catastrophic Storm Risk Management Center.

The Florida Catastrophic Storm Risk Management Center is created at the Florida State University, College of Business, Department of Risk Management. The purpose of the center is to promote and disseminate research on issues related to catastrophic storm loss and to assist in identifying and developing education and research grant funding opportunities among higher education institutions in this state and the private sector. The purpose of the activities of the center is to support the state’s ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from catastrophic storms. The center shall:

(1) Coordinate and disseminate research efforts that are expected to have an immediate impact on policy and practices related to catastrophic storm preparedness.

(2) Coordinate and disseminate information related to catastrophic storm risk management, including, but not limited to, research and information that would benefit businesses, consumers, and public policy makers. Areas of interest may include storm forecasting, loss modeling, building construction and mitigation, and risk management strategies. Through its efforts, the center shall facilitate Florida’s preparedness for and responsiveness to catastrophic storms and collaborate with other public and private institutions.

(3) Create and promote studies that enhance the educational options available to risk management and insurance students.

(4) Publish and disseminate findings.

(5) Organize and sponsor conferences, symposiums, and workshops to educate consumers and policymakers.