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H 4042

An Act relating to homeowner insurance policy

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by John Barrett

Requires MA insurers and the JUA to give at least 60 days’ notice before canceling a homeowners policy, giving policyholders time to obtain replacement coverage.

Accompanied a study order, see H5211
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Bill Summary · H 4042

Summary of House Bill H.4042 — An Act relating to homeowner insurance policy

Overview

H.4042, introduced January 16, 2025 by Representative John Barrett III, seeks to change how homeowner insurance cancellations are handled in Massachusetts. The bill adds a new statutory requirement intended to provide policyholders with more advance notice before a cancellation can take effect.

Purpose and intent

  • To prohibit the cancellation of a homeowners insurance policy by an insurer or by the joint underwriting association (JUA) formed under Chapter 175C within fewer than 60 days after the policyholder is notified of the cancellation.
  • The goal is to offer policyholders a longer window to secure alternative coverage and to reduce abrupt loss of coverage.

Key provisions

  • Creation of new Section 4C½ in Chapter 175 of the General Laws, inserted after §4C.
  • Provision: No insurer licensed to write homeowners insurance in the Commonwealth, nor the JUA under Chapter 175C, may cancel a homeowners policy within fewer than 60 days of notification to the policyholder of cancellation.
  • The text specifies the 60-day minimum notice period but does not outline exceptions, penalties, or additional procedures beyond the notice period.

Who is affected

  • Policyholders with homeowners insurance in Massachusetts.
  • Licensed homeowners insurers operating in the Commonwealth.
  • The Joint Underwriting Association (JUA) established under Chapter 175C.

Timeline and legislative status

  • Introduced: January 16, 2025 (House No. 4042).
  • Referred to the Committee on Financial Services: April 22, 2025.
  • Senate concurrence: April 24, 2025.
  • Hearing: Scheduled for September 15, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM in hearing room A-1.
  • Related bill: HD 2495 (replaces); the bill text is listed as House Docket No. 2495.
  • Current status notes a hearing date: September 15, 2025.

Practical implications

  • If enacted, insurers and the JUA would be required to provide at least 60 days’ advance notice before canceling a homeowners policy.
  • This could reduce sudden loss of coverage for homeowners and may impact insurer risk management, quoting, and renewal strategies.
  • The bill text does not detail any exceptions (e.g., nonpayment, fraud) or penalties for noncompliance, nor does it specify an effective date or phase-in period.

Related information

  • Related bill HD 2495 is noted as replacing this measure.
  • The bill’s progress includes a Senate concurrence in April 2025 and a scheduled public hearing in September 2025.

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

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