Who is primarily responsible for the approval of surplus lines insurance coverage?

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation is primarily responsible for overseeing and approving surplus lines insurance coverage. This regulatory body ensures that the surplus lines market operates within the framework of state laws and regulations. While the surplus lines broker plays a crucial role in facilitating the placement of these types of insurance, it is the Office of Insurance Regulation that holds the authority to approve and monitor the eligibility of surplus lines insurers, which typically do not have to obtain a standard certificate of authority in the state. This approval process helps maintain the integrity of the insurance market and protects consumers by ensuring that surplus lines insurance providers meet necessary financial and operational standards. The other options, while involved in the insurance process, do not have the primary authority for approval.