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Bill

SR 178

Duncan, Catherine; commend

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bill Cowsert and 5 co-sponsors

SR 178 urges Hawaii insurers to pursue claims against polluters, aiming to lower insurance costs for residents by holding companies accountable for climate change misinformation.

Senate Read and Adopted
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SR 178

Summary of SR 178: Encouraging Hawaii Insurers to Reduce Insurance Costs

Bill Overview

Bill Number: SR 178
Title: Encouraging Hawaii Insurers and the Hawaii Property Insurance Association to Reduce Insurance Costs on Local Residents by Pursuing Subrogation Claims Against Polluters Who Knowingly Engaged in Misleading and Deceptive Practices Regarding the Connection Between Their Products and Climate Change.
Status: Report and Resolution Adopted, as amended (SD 1)
Introduced: March 07, 2025
Classification: Resolution
Subject: Claims, Climate Change, Insurance, Insurance Rates, Polluters

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of SR 178 is to encourage insurers in Hawaii, along with the Hawaii Property Insurance Association, to actively pursue subrogation claims against entities that have knowingly engaged in misleading and deceptive practices related to climate change. By holding these polluters accountable, the resolution aims to alleviate the financial burden of insurance costs on local residents.

Key Provisions

  • Subrogation Claims: The resolution advocates for insurers to seek compensation from polluters whose actions contribute to climate change, thereby potentially reducing the costs of insurance for residents.
  • Focus on Accountability: It emphasizes the need for accountability from companies that misrepresent the environmental impact of their products.
  • Insurance Cost Reduction: By pursuing these claims, the resolution aims to lower insurance premiums for Hawaii residents, making insurance more affordable.

Affected Parties

  • Local Residents: The resolution primarily benefits Hawaii residents by potentially lowering their insurance costs.
  • Insurance Companies: Insurers are encouraged to take a more proactive role in addressing climate change-related claims.
  • Polluters: Companies that have engaged in deceptive practices regarding their environmental impact may face legal and financial repercussions.

Legislative Process and Timeline

  • March 07, 2025: SR 178 was introduced.
  • March 12, 2025: The bill was referred to the Committees on Commerce and Consumer Protection (CPN) and Agriculture and Environment (AEN).
  • March 27, 2025: A public hearing was scheduled for April 1, 2025.
  • April 01, 2025: Both committees recommended the measure be passed with amendments.
  • April 03, 2025: The report and resolution were adopted, as amended (SD 1).

Related Legislation

  • SCR 198: This bill serves as a companion to SR 178, potentially addressing similar issues related to climate change and insurance.

Conclusion

SR 178 represents a strategic effort to mitigate the financial impact of climate change on Hawaii residents by promoting accountability among polluters. By encouraging insurers to pursue subrogation claims, the resolution seeks to create a more sustainable and affordable insurance landscape in the state.

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

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