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Bill

Bill

SB 1137

RELATING TO INSURANCE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Stanley Chang and 5 co-sponsors

Bill SB 1137 requires insurers to notify policyholders in writing about rate changes, enhancing transparency and empowering consumers to make informed decisions.

Pass First Reading
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1137

Summary of Bill SB 1137: Relating to Insurance

Bill Number: SB 1137
Title: Relating to Insurance
Status: Pass First Reading
Introduced: January 17, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Insurance, Notice, Rate Changes

Purpose and Intent

Bill SB 1137 aims to enhance transparency and consumer protection in the insurance industry by establishing clearer guidelines for notifying policyholders about rate changes. The intent is to ensure that consumers are adequately informed about any adjustments to their insurance premiums, thereby fostering a more informed decision-making process.

Key Provisions

  • Notice Requirements: The bill mandates that insurance companies provide written notice to policyholders regarding any changes to their rates. This notice must be sent a specified number of days prior to the effective date of the rate change.

  • Content of Notices: The notice must include detailed information about the reasons for the rate change, the new premium amount, and any other relevant information that would help consumers understand the implications of the change.

  • Regulatory Oversight: The bill empowers the insurance commissioner to establish rules and regulations regarding the format and timing of these notices to ensure consistency and clarity across the industry.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Consumers: Policyholders will benefit from increased transparency regarding their insurance premiums, allowing them to make more informed choices about their coverage.

  • Insurance Companies: Insurers will need to adjust their communication practices to comply with the new notice requirements, potentially incurring administrative costs associated with these changes.

  • Regulatory Bodies: The insurance commissioner will have an expanded role in overseeing compliance with the new regulations, which may require additional resources.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 17, 2025: Bill introduced.
  • January 21, 2025: Passed First Reading.
  • January 23, 2025: Referred to the Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection (CPN).
  • February 10, 2025: Public hearing scheduled.
  • February 14, 2025: CPN recommended the bill be passed with amendments.
  • February 27, 2025: Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1).
  • March 4, 2025: Passed Third Reading, as amended (SD 1), and transmitted to the House.
  • March 6, 2025: Referred to CPC and passed First Reading in the House.

Conclusion

Bill SB 1137 represents a significant step toward improving consumer awareness in the insurance sector. By requiring insurers to provide clear and timely notifications of rate changes, the bill seeks to empower policyholders and enhance the overall integrity of the insurance market. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final provisions and implementation timeline of this bill.

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

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