Connecticut House Bill HB05554

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/26/21
• Refer: 1/26/21

Caption

An Act Requiring Insurance Reimbursements For Personal Property Contained In Stolen Motor Vehicles.

Impact

If passed, HB 05554 would significantly amend Title 38a of the general statutes regarding insurance practices in the state. This change would compel insurance companies to provide clearer guidelines regarding what is covered under theft conditions, potentially leading to changes in insurance premiums and how insurers assess the value of personal property. It is expected that this bill could increase accountability among insurers, making it more difficult for them to deny claims related to stolen personal property. Moreover, it may influence how insurers formulate their policies in the future to accommodate this new requirement.

Summary

House Bill 05554 is aimed at reforming the insurance protocols regarding coverage for personal property in stolen motor vehicles. The bill mandates that insurance companies must reimburse insured individuals for the full value of any personal property that is stolen along with the vehicle. This legislative measure is a response to increasing concerns from members of the public regarding the financial losses they incur when their vehicles are stolen, which often includes important personal items that are left inside the vehicle at the time of theft. The legislation is designed to protect consumers and ensure that they receive adequate compensation for their losses.

Contention

Despite the bill's consumer-focused intent, there may be opposition from insurance companies who could argue that the bill places an additional financial burden on them, potentially leading to increased premiums for policyholders. Insurers might express concerns that the requirement to reimburse for personal property could encourage fraud or false claims, which could drive up operational costs. Additionally, discussions in legislative forums may highlight the need for safeguards in determining the specific value of personal items, balancing consumer protection with the financial viability of insurance providers.