Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

Michigan House Bill HB6012

Introduced
9/26/24  

Caption

Insurance: insurers; property insurance denial, cancellation, or increased premiums for owners of certain breeds of dogs; prohibit. Amends 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.100 - 500.8302) by adding sec. 2130a.

Impact

If passed, HB6012 would significantly alter how insurance companies operate with respect to dog ownership within Michigan. Insurers would be barred from using breed-related factors as a basis for associated decisions. This change aims to create a more equitable environment for dog owners, denying the practice considered an 'unfair method of competition' under the new legislation. The bill explicitly allows certain exceptions, permitting insurers to make decisions based on sound underwriting and actuarial principles, as long as they are not reliant on a dog's breed. The law is set to take effect on January 1, 2025.

Summary

House Bill 6012 seeks to amend the 1956 PA 218, which pertains to the insurance code of Michigan, specifically focusing on the protection of homeowners with dogs of certain breeds. The bill introduces section 2130a, prohibiting insurers from considering the breed of dogs when making decisions related to residential property liability insurance policies. This includes implications for policy cancellation, premium rate adjustments, and refusal to provide coverage based on the dog's breed or breed mixture. The intent of the bill is to ensure that dog owners are not unfairly discriminated against in the realm of insurance due to their pet's breed.

Contention

While the bill aims to protect dog owners from potential discrimination, it has sparked debate among insurers and animal advocacy groups. Supporters argue that the legislation addresses discriminatory practices present in the industry, allowing for broader access to insurance for dog owners. Conversely, some insurers express concerns that such laws could lead to increased risks if they cannot take breeds into account when determining policy terms, potentially influencing overall insurance premiums and availability for all policyholders. Discussions may continue around how such a significant change could impact broader underwriting practices within the insurance industry in Michigan.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MI SB0384

Insurance: insurers; denying or limiting insurance to living organ donors; prohibit. Amends 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.100 - 500.8302) by adding secs. 3406z, 3901a & 4002.

MI SB0282

Insurance: no-fault; penalties for lapse of insurance policy; provide waiver for certain individuals. Amends secs. 2118 & 2120 of 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.2118 & 500.2120) & adds sec. 2116c.

MI HB4622

Insurance: health insurers; annual and lifetime dollar limits; prohibit. Amends 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.100 - 500.8302) by adding sec. 3406z. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4623'23

MI SB0973

Insurance: health insurers; coverage for certain contraception; require. Amends 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.100 - 500.8302) by adding sec. 3406jj.

MI SB0921

Insurance: health insurers; health insurance mandate review commission; establish. Amends 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.100 - 500.8302) by adding sec. 3478.

MI HB5340

Insurance: health insurers; coverage of for PrEP and PEP prescriptions; provide for. Amends 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.100 - 500.8302) by adding sec. 3406dd.

MI AB703

Residential property insurance: dog breeds.

MI HB4623

Insurance: health insurers; minimum required coverage; provide for. Amends 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.100 - 500.8302) by adding sec. 3406bb.

MI HB5170

Insurance: health insurers; coverage for mental health screenings for new mothers; require. Amends 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.100 - 500.8302) by adding sec. 3406oo.

MI HB5013

Insurance: health insurers; coverage for the dispensing of a 12-month supply of birth control; require. Amends 1956 PA 218 (MCL 500.100 - 500.8302) by adding sec. 3406z.

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