Louisiana House Bill HB44

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/10
• Refer: 3/29/10
• Report Pass: 4/14/10
• Engrossed: 4/21/10
• Report Pass: 6/3/10
• Enrolled: 6/11/10
• Chaptered: 6/21/10
• Passed: 6/21/10

Caption

Requires insurers to include certain information relative to refund of certain assessments levied by the La. Citizens Property Insurance Corporation with policies sent to insureds

Impact

The enactment of HB 44 signifies a protective measure for Louisiana residents, particularly those affected by the aftermath of hurricanes. By mandating insurers to communicate refund processes clearly, the bill aims to enhance transparency and support for homeowners who may have unknowingly borne extra financial burdens through additional assessments. This change in property insurance law seeks to align the interests of insurers with the needs of the insured, potentially reducing confusion regarding refund eligibility and encouraging claims for any due reimbursements.

Summary

House Bill 44 mandates that property insurance insurers in Louisiana provide specific information regarding refunds for surcharges and assessments associated with Hurricane Katrina and Rita. The bill requires that insured individuals receive an electronic link to a form from the Department of Revenue, which they can use to apply for refunds on any levied charges due to these hurricanes. Additionally, a clear statement must be included with insurance policies that these charges are refundable, ensuring that policyholders are aware of their rights to seek reimbursement for these costs.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 44 appears largely supportive, highlighting a legislative effort to safeguard consumers in a state still recovering from severe weather disasters. Many legislators viewed the bill as a necessary step towards ensuring that policyholders retain rights and access to refunds that could alleviate financial difficulties. While there may be minimal dissent concerning the implementation details, the overarching goal of providing clarity and protection to residents has fostered a positive reception.

Contention

While specific points of contention were not deeply explored in the available discussions, potential concerns could arise regarding how effectively insurers communicate these refund opportunities. Questions may be raised about the enforcement of these requirements and the potential impact on administrative processes within insurance companies. Furthermore, the bill implies a need for oversight to ensure that policyholders are not only informed but also able to navigate the refund processes seamlessly.