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HB 1198

Insurance; limited license to offer or sell portable electronics and consumer goods insurance; provide

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Joseph Gullett and 1 co-sponsor

Georgia bill establishes simplified licensing for retailers to sell portable electronics and consumer goods insurance at point-of-sale with reduced regulatory requirements.

House Committee Favorably Reported
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Bill Summary · HB 1198

Legislative bill overview

HB 1198 creates a limited insurance license pathway in Georgia allowing retailers to sell portable electronics and consumer goods insurance without becoming full-fledged insurance agents. The bill streamlines licensing requirements and regulatory oversight for these specific, low-risk insurance products typically offered at point-of-sale.

Why is this important

This bill directly affects consumer shopping experiences and retail business operations. It could increase insurance product availability at checkout counters while potentially lowering compliance costs for retailers, though it also raises questions about consumer protection and insurance product transparency at the point of sale.

Potential points of contention

  • Consumer protection concerns – Limited licensing may reduce required training and expertise compared to standard insurance agents, potentially leaving consumers vulnerable to inadequate product explanations or unsuitable recommendations
  • Insurance market competition – Traditional insurance agents and brokers may oppose reduced barriers to entry, viewing it as unfair competition that undercuts their established businesses
  • Regulatory oversight gaps – Streamlined licensing could create enforcement challenges, with regulators having less visibility into sales practices and complaint resolution for these transactions

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

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