North Dakota 2023-2024 Regular Session

North Dakota House Bill HB1189

Introduced
1/9/23  
Refer
1/9/23  
Report Pass
1/31/23  
Engrossed
2/2/23  
Refer
2/13/23  
Refer
3/3/23  
Report Pass
3/21/23  
Enrolled
3/24/23  

Caption

Legal expense insurance plans.

Impact

The passage of HB 1189 is expected to have significant implications for how legal expense insurance and retainer agreements are handled in North Dakota. By explicitly outlining exceptions for retainer contracts and certain legal plans, the bill aims to provide better guidance and predictability for consumers and legal professionals alike. This could lead to increased consumer access to legal services while simultaneously protecting the integrity of the legal profession by regulating the conditions under which legal services are offered.

Summary

House Bill 1189 seeks to amend specific sections of the North Dakota Century Code to clarify and update regulations surrounding legal expense insurance plans. The bill introduces exceptions to the currently applied laws, particularly concerning retainer contracts made by attorneys and the type of legal plans exempted from the insurance code. This revision aims to streamline the regulatory framework related to legal expenses, ensuring clarity for both legal practitioners and clients utilizing these services.

Sentiment

The general sentiment regarding HB 1189 appears to be positive, as evidenced by the unanimous support it received in both the House and Senate votes. Legislators and supporters of the bill recognize the need to clarify the frameworks governing legal expense insurance, viewing it as a beneficial update that will make legal services more accessible. Stakeholders within the legal community expressed appreciation for the clarity and structure the bill introduces to previously ambiguous regulations.

Contention

While HB 1189 received broad support, some concerns were raised regarding the potential implications for consumer protections associated with legal expense insurance plans. Critics may question whether the amendments are overly permissive towards certain legal services exemptions, potentially leading to confusion or disqualification from consumer protections typically afforded under existing insurance laws. However, the explicit definitions and exceptions included in the bill are designed to mitigate such issues, focusing on enhancing access without compromising legal standards.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ND HB1216

Self-insurance health care plans; to provide for application; and to provide an effective date.

ND SB2173

The licensing of limited lines travel insurance producers.

ND SB2056

The insurance commissioner's red tape reduction.

ND SB2140

Self-insurance health plans; to provide for a report; to provide for application; and to provide an expiration date.

ND HB1123

Fees charged by the insurance commissioner.

ND SB2088

Implementation dates for certain data security requirements for insurance producers.

ND SB2214

The insurance commissioner assuming the duties of the securities commissioner; to provide for a transfer; to provide an effective date; and to declare an emergency.

ND SB2305

Surplus lines insurance.

ND HB1440

Transportation network company insurance and transportation and delivery company networks.

ND SB2116

An information fund and continuing appropriation to pay publication and statistical processing expenses, organization claim file destruction, penalty for violation of a safety rule or regulation, and the retrospective rating program.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.