The self-insurance program is established to provide a system through which Manatee County can protect its assets, comply with applicable legal requirements, and meet its responsibilities under state and federal law.

The County's Risk Management Program includes retention of risk for liability to third parties, for workers' compensation benefits to employees, for repair and replacement of damaged County vehicles and property, and for asserting claims against other persons and entities. It includes management of sufficient commercial insurance to cover catastrophic losses and liabilities.

The intent of the self-insurance program is twofold. The first is to provide coverage in the same manner and to the same extent as though commercial general liability, automobile liability, automobile collision, automobile comprehensive, and workers' compensation insurance had been purchased. The second is to fairly and promptly compensate persons injured by acts or omissions of County employees for which Manatee County has liability.