Texas Senate Bill SB14

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/21/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/30/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/22/09

Caption

Relating to the operation of the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association and the Texas FAIR Plan Association; making an appropriation.

Impact

The bill has significant implications for how insurance losses are managed in the state, particularly in areas prone to catastrophic windstorms. By authorizing the issuance of Class 1 and Class 2 public securities, the state aims to create a reliable funding source for compensating insured losses, thereby facilitating a quicker response to claims after disasters. The establishment of a catastrophe reserve trust fund under this legislation is designed to bolster the financial reserves of TWIA, enabling it to meet its obligations more effectively.

Summary

Senate Bill 14 relates to the operations of the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA) and the Texas FAIR Plan Association. It seeks to amend various provisions of the Insurance Code to enhance the financial strength and regulatory framework governing these associations. A notable aspect of the bill is its focus on the issuance of public securities to raise funds required to cover insured losses following catastrophic events. This mechanism is aimed at ensuring timely payments to policyholders and improving the overall fiscal management of the associations.

Contention

However, the bill has raised concerns among stakeholders regarding its approach to premium surcharges imposed on policyholders. The requirement that premiums must cover additional surcharges and the financial obligations tied to the issuance of public securities has been contentious. Critics argue that these surcharges could lead to increased insurance costs for homeowners in vulnerable areas, potentially making insurance unaffordable for some. The balance between ensuring adequate protection for policyholders and maintaining reasonable premium costs has thus emerged as a major point of contention in the discussions surrounding this bill.