New Hampshire Senate Bill SB31

New Hampshire 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/23
• Refer: 1/5/23
• Report Pass: 1/10/23
• Engrossed: 3/20/23
• Refer: 3/20/23
• Report Pass: 5/25/23
• Enrolled: 6/30/23
• Chaptered: 8/1/23
• Passed: 8/1/23

Caption

Relative to technical changes to the laws administered by the insurance department.

Impact

The bill's adjustments are designed to preserve New Hampshire’s authority as the primary regulator for insurance within the state. By updating the statutory requirements for financial reporting and obligor registration, SB31 aims to promote transparency and accountability among insurance entities. As a result, this could influence how effectively the state can ensure compliance with both state laws and federal mandates, including those pertaining to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

Summary

Senate Bill 31 focuses on making various technical changes to the laws administered by the insurance department of New Hampshire. The bill encompasses amendments to several existing statutes to address updates and clarifications regarding the management and regulation of insurance practices, aiming to maintain the integrity of state oversight in the insurance sector. These changes include enhanced requirements for third-party administrators, improvements in grievance procedures for managed care, and clarifications regarding the regulatory framework for consumer guaranty contracts.

Contention

While the bill does not seem to attract major controversies at this stage, some stakeholders in the insurance industry may have differing opinions on the implications of the stricter regulatory measures proposed. Specifically, there may be discussions on the burdens these requirements could impose on smaller insurance providers who may struggle with compliance costs. Furthermore, while ensuring consumer protections, there is a potential concern regarding the balance between regulation and the ability of insurers to operate efficiently.