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Bill

Bill

HB 6133

AN ACT PROHIBITING THE USE OF DRONES BY HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE COMPANIES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mary Welander

Connecticut bill prohibits homeowners insurers from using drones for property inspections and underwriting decisions, raising privacy protections but potentially increasing operational costs and claims delays.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Insurance and Real Estate
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Bill Summary · HB 6133

Legislative bill overview

HB 6133 would prohibit homeowners insurance companies operating in Connecticut from using drones to inspect properties or gather information for underwriting, claims assessment, or policy decisions. The bill restricts insurers' use of this technology without explicitly defining what constitutes prohibited drone activity or establishing exceptions for consensual inspections.

Why is this important

Insurers increasingly use drone technology to reduce inspection costs, speed up claims processing, and assess property conditions more accurately. This bill reflects growing concerns about privacy, property rights, and surveillance, as drone use can capture detailed information about homes and surrounding areas without clear homeowner consent or awareness. The outcome could affect insurance premiums, claims processing timelines, and competitive practices across the industry.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy vs. efficiency trade-off: Insurers argue drones improve speed and accuracy while reducing costs; homeowners' rights advocates worry about airspace surveillance without explicit permission
  • Competitive disadvantage: Connecticut insurers may face higher operational costs than out-of-state competitors, potentially affecting market competitiveness and premium pricing
  • Enforcement and definition gaps: The bill's language doesn't clarify whether consensual drone inspections are allowed, how violations are penalized, or how regulators will monitor compliance
  • Claims process impacts: Drone restrictions could slow catastrophe response and large-scale damage assessments, potentially delaying payouts after disasters

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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