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Bill

HB 4074

Relating to licensing requirements for insurance umpires and appraisers; authorizing fees; providing an administrative penalty.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Matt Morgan

Requires Texas insurance umpires and appraisers to obtain state licenses, authorizes regulatory fees and administrative penalties for violations.

Placed on General State Calendar
#continuingeducation(s0234) #ethics(i0345) #insurance #commissionerof(v0396) #texasdepartmentof(v0006) #insurance--insurers&agents(i0425) #mediation #disputeresolution #&arbitration(s8683) #occupationalregulation--othertrades&professions(i0541)
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Bill Summary · HB 4074

Legislative bill overview

HB 4074 establishes licensing requirements for insurance umpires and appraisers in Texas, creating a regulatory framework for professionals who resolve insurance disputes and assess property damage claims. The bill authorizes the state to collect licensing fees and impose administrative penalties for violations of these new licensing standards.

Why is this important

Insurance umpires and appraisers play a critical role in the claims process, determining payouts for property damage disputes. Licensing requirements could improve consumer protection by ensuring these professionals meet competency standards, though it also creates compliance costs and regulatory oversight for the industry.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory burden: New licensing requirements may increase operational costs for small appraisal firms and could reduce market competition, potentially raising insurance costs for consumers
  • Fee structure and amounts: The bill authorizes fees but doesn't specify amounts, leaving uncertainty about actual costs to practitioners and whether revenue will exceed administrative expenses
  • Scope of authority: Questions about whether the state licensing body has adequate resources to administer, monitor, and enforce penalties against this professional population

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

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