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HB 299

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 18 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO LIFE INSURANCE POLICY EXCLUSIONS AND RESTRICTIONS BASED ON DEATH RESULTING FROM SUICIDE.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Spiros Mantzavinos and 6 co-sponsors

Delaware bill modifies life insurance suicide exclusion rules to establish clearer standards for claim denials and beneficiary coverage protections.

Passed By Senate. Votes: 20 YES 1 ABSENT
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 299

Legislative bill overview

HB 299 proposes amendments to Delaware's insurance law (Title 18) to modify how life insurance policies can exclude or restrict benefits when death results from suicide. The bill specifically addresses the conditions and timeframes under which insurers may deny suicide-related death claims. This appears designed to establish clearer, more consumer-protective standards around suicide exclusions in life insurance contracts.

Why is this important

Life insurance suicide clauses directly affect grieving families' financial security during vulnerable periods. Currently, insurance companies may deny claims under varying conditions, leaving beneficiaries without expected payouts when suicide occurs. Clarifying these rules protects consumers from ambiguous policy language while also establishing predictable underwriting standards for insurers operating in Delaware.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurer profitability impact: Restricting suicide exclusions or shortening exclusion periods could increase claim payouts, potentially raising premiums or reducing company profits
  • Moral hazard concerns: Some argue broader coverage encourages irresponsible purchasing behavior; others counter this overstates the effect
  • Specificity of amendments: Without seeing exact language, unclear whether the bill tightens, loosens, or merely clarifies existing restrictions, creating uncertainty about practical effects

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

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