PIP UPDATE

As a counter move to the Temporary Injunction victory for LMTs, the State of Florida filed a motion to appeal the order, which put in an automatic Stay.  The attorneys, Luke Lirot and Adam Levine, which are representing Florida LMTs, Acupuncturist and Chiropractors immediately filed an Order to Vacate The Stay.  The Honorable Judge Terry Lewis called for oral arguments on Monday, April 1, 2013 in his Chambers. Both sides were able to present their argument.  Both sides were arguing the impact of harm.  The Judge is currently deliberating on the material and arguments presented, and we are awaiting his ruling.

In plain language what does this mean to the Florida LMTs, you currently cannot file any claims or receive any payment on PIP cases until the next ruling is rendered.

 Stay tuned for more updates as they occur.

The FSMTA and it’s membership greatly appreciate the dedicated service of Vivian Madison Mahoney. Vivian has served on the FSMTA Board for over 23 years. She has given her heart and soul to our organization and the massage profession. She believed in fighting for the constitutional rights of all LMTs. Vivian demonstrated true leadership by creating the avenue for LMTs to unite and contribute to the PIP fight through their support and donations. Vivian is a true pioneer and has blazed a trail in the massage therapy profession that has rippled out to impact other allied professions. The current legal battle over PIP was ignited through Vivian’s passion and persistence. Her perseverance has generated a frenzy in our State Capital and beyond. History in the making! We are honored to have her continued service on our Board of Directors as our Insurance Coding, Documentation and Fraud Prevention Chair. We deeply respect Vivian and are privileged and honored to call her both our friend and college. Thank you Vivian, and congratulations on your legal victory!

Sincerely,

Leiah Carr, LMT
Executive State President

The Florida State Massage Therapy Association is pleased to share BREAKING NEWS!!

FLORIDA LICENSED MASSAGE THERAPISTS, ACUPUNTURIST & CHIROPRACTORS HAVE WON!!
The Honorable Judge Terry Lewis Issues an injunction against the Florida PIP Law! The order granting a temporary injunction allows us to resume treating patients under PIP benefits.
Vivian Mahoney, LMT, CEO United Practitioners Inc. & Kevin Johnson, CEO of Advanced Diagnostics Group were instrumental in leading the fight for all Florida LMTs, Acupuncturists and Chiropractors. Vivian Mahoney has served on the Board of the FSMTA for over 20 years and was instrumental in opening the door for LMT’s to be able to be paid for providing Massage Therapy services to injured consumers. Vivian Mahoney stated “if you believe in something, you stand behind what you believe in and that’s what makes it happen”.
The attorneys Luke Lirot and Adam Levine, MD JD did an outstanding job working countless hours in representing Florida Licensed Massage Therapists, Acupuncturist and Chiropractors, and the Florida Consumer.
Special thanks go out to those who have bravely stepped forward to serve as plaintiffs as well as those who donated to the fund to pay for this legal battle. Continued support and donations would be greatly appreciated to help cover the full cost of this victory. You can donate by visiting www.flpipdefensefund.com
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