Connecticut House Bill HB06623

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/21
• Refer: 3/11/21
• Report Pass: 3/22/21
• Refer: 4/5/21
• Report Pass: 4/12/21

Caption

An Act Concerning Property And Casualty Insurance.

Impact

By implementing these changes, HB 06623 could significantly impact how insurance coverage is approached within the state. Particularly, the requirement for insurers to disclose assessment conditions before issuing or renewing policies could lead to fairer pricing structures and lessen the chances of disputes regarding policy terms. This law could also enhance consumer protection through clearer communication and understanding of the insurance process, potentially reducing litigation associated with insurance claims.

Summary

House Bill 06623 aims to amend existing property and casualty insurance statutes in Connecticut with a focus on increasing transparency in the insurance claims process. The bill requires that insurers disclose whether property must be assessed or inspected before establishing premium costs for real property insurance policies. This amendment is designed to foster better communication between insurers and insured parties, ensuring that consumers are more informed regarding the requirements and evaluations affecting their policy costs.

Sentiment

The general sentiment toward HB 06623 appears to be positive among consumer advocacy groups and individuals seeking more clarity in their insurance arrangements. Proponents assert that it holds insurers accountable and prioritizes consumer interests. However, some insurance industry representatives express concern over the administrative burden and cost implications of implementing the required assessments and disclosures, fearing these could lead to higher premiums overall.

Contention

A notable point of contention involves the operational adjustments that insurance companies would need to make to comply with the bill's requirements. There are concerns that the new regulations may inadvertently lead to increased operational costs for insurers, which could be passed onto consumers in the form of higher premiums. Additionally, there are voices in the industry arguing that frequent assessments may complicate the underwriting process and slow down the issuance of policies, potentially affecting both customer satisfaction and overall market efficiency.