Florida Underwriter recently spoke with Michael Corley, current president of the Florida Association of Professional Employer Organizations (FAPEO). Corley also is president and COO of Sarasota-based Progressive Employer Services (PES), with offices throughout the state serving 1,600 clients and 16,000 worksite employees. PES has received the Workers' Compensation Risk Management Best Practices certification and achieved the Tax & Benefits Payment certification.

Q. As this article appears, the Florida Legislature is in session and your industry is about to hold its legislative summit. What new bills will you be endorsing? Will you be seeking changes to any current bills? How active is FAPEO in the Florida legislative process?

A. FAPEO has been active in the legislative process for 20 years, and each year we strive to become more active and contributory. Through and with our membership, our board of directors, our lobbyist and our national organization, we work with state representatives and state senators to help them understand the benefits PEOs bring to Florida businesses and how proposed legislation may harm or enhance these benefits. In addition, we work with other business organizations.