Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

Oklahoma House Bill HB1505

Introduced
2/6/23  
Refer
2/7/23  
Refer
2/12/24  
Report Pass
2/21/24  
Engrossed
3/13/24  
Refer
3/19/24  
Report Pass
3/26/24  
Enrolled
4/11/24  

Caption

Insurance; delivery and storage of electronic documents; permitting insurers to post certain policies or endorsements; effective date.

Impact

If enacted, HB1505 will significantly impact state insurance statutes by updating the methods by which documents can be delivered and stored. By allowing electronic delivery, the bill provides a framework for insurers to operate in line with current digital practices, reflecting a shift towards a more technologically integrated insurance landscape. This reform is expected to benefit consumers by simplifying communications and reducing the dependency on physical paperwork. Insurers will also be able to streamline operations and reduce costs associated with traditional mailings.

Summary

House Bill 1505 aims to modernize the delivery and storage of insurance documents in Oklahoma by permitting insurers to deliver, store, and present documents electronically, such as policies and endorsements. The bill specifies that compliance with the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act is required for such deliveries, thus ensuring that electronic notice or document delivery is legally equivalent to traditional methods, such as first-class mail. This change is intended to enhance efficiency for both insurers and policyholders, allowing for quicker access to important documents without the need for physical copies.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB1505 appears to be positive among those who support modernization in the insurance industry. Proponents argue that the bill will not only reduce paperwork but also help fulfill consumer expectations for digital services in an increasingly electronic world. However, there are concerns expressed by consumer advocacy groups regarding the adequacy of protections for policyholders, particularly in ensuring that electronic communications are accessible and that consumers retain the right to request paper copies without barriers.

Contention

A notable point of contention involves the potential risks to consumers associated with electronic delivery methods. Critics worry that not all policyholders may be proficient in managing electronic communications or that they may be overlooked due to the reliance on technology. The bill also stipulates that insurers must provide clear instructions regarding the withdrawal of consent for electronic documents, raising questions about whether all consumers will be fully aware of their rights and options. This aspect of the bill highlights concerns about maintaining consumer protections in a rapidly changing regulatory environment.

Companion Bills

OK HB1505

Carry Over Insurance; Oklahoma Insurance Act of 2023; effective date.

Previously Filed As

OK SB468

Estate planning; creating the Uniform Electronic Estate Planning Documents Act; establishing requirements for certain electronic documents and signatures. Effective date.

OK SB543

Insurance; creating the Insurance Data Security Act. Effective date.

OK HB1802

Motor vehicles; allowing delivery of certificates of title to record owner for certain vehicles; removing certain acknowledgment requirements; effective date.

OK SB741

The Oklahoma Electronic Toll Collection Act; creating certain exemption. Effective date.

OK HB2776

Uniform Commercial Code; clarifying scope of certain definitions; clarifying requirements for establishing control of electronic chattel paper; codification; effective date.

OK HB2326

Public finance; permitting certain officers to call witnesses; officer powers; requiring certain law enforcement agencies to supply certain documents; effective date.

OK HB1927

Liens; motor vehicles; notice of sale; fees for title application; notice; storage charge; effective date.

OK SB35

Electronic communication; creating the Electronic Communication and Device Privacy Act; establishing procedures for access to certain information. Effective date.

OK SB869

Consumer protection; creating the Digital Fair Repair Act; requiring disclosure of certain documentation, parts, and tools for repairs. Effective date.

OK HB1504

Health insurance; policies; compensation; liability for damages; fines; fees; creating certain policyholder rights; effective date.

Similar Bills

CA AB2165

Electronic filing and service of documents.

CA SB666

Service of papers: electronic service by court.

CA AB2283

Civil actions: electronic service.

CA AB2961

Civil procedure: electronic filing and service.

CA SB1146

Civil procedure: electronic filing, trial delays, and remote depositions.

DC B26-0031

Uniform Electronic Estate Planning Documents Act of 2025

HI HB1029

Relating To The Use Of Electronic Filing By The Public Utilities Commission.

HI HB1029

Relating To The Use Of Electronic Filing By The Public Utilities Commission.