Louisiana Senate Bill SB89

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/27/19
• Refer: 3/27/19
• Refer: 4/8/19

Caption

Prohibits insurance providers from using credit reports and gender as basis for rate setting. (8/1/19)

Impact

The bill would have significant implications for insurance regulations in Louisiana. By outlawing the use of credit scores and gender in rate classification, SB 89 aligns with broader anti-discrimination efforts and could lead to more competitive pricing in the insurance market. The legislative shift is expected to benefit individuals who might have been previously disadvantaged by their credit histories or gender biases, ultimately promoting a more inclusive financial service sector. This would necessitate adjustments from insurance companies in their pricing strategies to comply with the new regulations.

Summary

Senate Bill 89, introduced by Senator Luneau, targets insurance rate-setting practices by prohibiting insurance providers from using credit scores and gender as bases for calculating insurance rates. This legislative change aims to enhance fairness in how insurance premiums are determined, ensuring that individuals are not penalized based on personal attributes that do not necessarily correlate with risk. The bill seeks to amend existing laws to foster a more equitable environment within the insurance industry by addressing common forms of discrimination that have historically affected consumers.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding SB 89 appears to be positive, especially among consumer advocacy groups who view the bill as a progressive step towards eliminating outdated and unjust practices in insurance rate setting. However, there may also be concerns raised by members of the insurance industry regarding the potential for increased operational costs and adjustments required to their existing methods. The dialogue around the bill suggests a recognition of the need for reform while balancing the economic implications for insurers.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the traditional reliance on credit scores as indicators of risk by many insurance companies, which some stakeholders argue helps ensure stability in the insurance market. Critics of the bill may fear that eliminating such criteria could lead to less precise risk assessments, possibly leading to adjustments in overall pricing structures. Additionally, the complexities of implementing these changes may create challenges within the industry as they navigate new compliance requirements, highlighting the ongoing debate between consumer protection and industry practices.