New Hampshire House Bill HB1259

New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/1/23
• Refer: 12/1/23
• Report Pass: 3/18/24
• Engrossed: 4/2/24
• Refer: 4/2/24
• Report Pass: 5/15/24
• Enrolled: 7/23/24
• Chaptered: 8/7/24
• Passed: 8/7/24

Caption

Relative to property and casualty insurance laws administered by the insurance department.

Impact

This bill has considerable implications for the regulation of property and casualty insurance in New Hampshire. By differentiating between personal and commercial lines more distinctly, it could simplify processes for insurers and policyholders alike. The proposal to utilize electronic means for auditing insurance policies could lead to increased efficiency and accessibility in the insurance review process. Furthermore, the requirement for insurers to specify reasons for cancellation could foster greater consumer protection and transparency in the insurance marketplace.

Summary

House Bill 1259 aims to amend property and casualty insurance laws administered by the state's insurance department while also addressing drinking water infrastructure. The bill clarifies the distinctions between personal and commercial lines in homeowners' policies, allowing the use of electronic communication for audits, and requiring insurers to provide specific reasons for policy cancellations or renewals. Additionally, it introduces an exemption for insurance claims adjusters who specifically deal with automobile glass claims.

Contention

Notably, the bill also addresses regional drinking water infrastructure, specifically targeting areas affected by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination. An appropriation of $25 million is designated for funding this initiative as part of the Southern New Hampshire Regional Water Project. This allocation aims to enhance the water supply to communities facing growing demands and contamination concerns. However, the bill could face contention related to funding priorities and the effectiveness of such measures in addressing long-term water quality issues in the affected regions.