Connecticut Senate Bill SB00020

Connecticut 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/8/12
• Refer: 2/8/12
• Report Pass: 2/21/12
• Refer: 2/27/12
• Report Pass: 3/5/12
• Engrossed: 4/11/12
• Report Pass: 4/12/12

Caption

An Act Concerning A Study Of The Assessment Methodology Used By The Insurance Department And The Office Of The Healthcare Advocate.

Impact

The bill's implementation will primarily influence the funding structure of the Insurance Department and the office overseeing healthcare advocacy. Should the committee's study yield favorable recommendations regarding the inclusion of foreign entities in the assessment framework, it may generate additional funding sources. This could lead to more robust regulatory oversight and resource allocation for insurance matters in the state, ultimately impacting how insurers operate and interact with their consumers and the regulatory environment.

Summary

Senate Bill 20 (SB00020) aims to conduct a comprehensive study on the assessment methodology utilized by the Insurance Department and the Office of the Healthcare Advocate. The bill directs the Legislative Program Review and Investigations Committee to examine the impact of potentially expanding the assessment approach to include alien and foreign insurance companies operating in the state. Additionally, it mandates the investigation of funding mechanisms employed by other states to support their insurance regulatory agencies. By understanding these dynamics, the bill seeks to enhance the effectiveness of insurance regulation within Connecticut.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB00020 is largely supportive as it emphasizes the need for thorough analysis before enacting new financial approaches within the insurance industry. Stakeholders within the insurance sector, particularly domestic companies, might express concerns about the implications of including foreign insurers in funding assessments, yet the overall tone is cautious optimism. The discussions highlight a consensus on the necessity of effective regulation while balancing the interests of all parties involved.

Contention

One notable area of contention may arise from the potential impact on domestic insurance companies if foreign competitors are assessed differently or more favorably. The bill anticipates possible disparities in the marketplace and seeks to address them through its study. Furthermore, opponents might express concerns regarding the pace of regulatory changes and the effectiveness of the proposed methodologies in achieving equitable funding practices across all participating insurance entities.