Relating to the establishment and operation of the unauthorized insurance guaranty fund.
Impact
This legislation will specifically amend the Texas Insurance Code to create new provisions under which a fund is established. The purpose of this Unauthorized Insurance Guaranty Fund is to hold deposited money that can be utilized in cases of delinquency involving unauthorized insurers. The fund is intended to support policy claims by advancing funds when the assets of these insurers are insufficient, thereby enhancing financial security for Texas residents who face losses due to unsanctioned insurance practices. This legislative framework aims to streamline processes for compensating affected individuals.
Summary
House Bill 4339, titled the Unauthorized Insurance Guaranty Fund Act, introduces a structure for managing claims related to unauthorized insurance policies within the state of Texas. The bill seeks to establish a dedicated fund aimed at alleviating the financial burden on individuals who suffer damages due to claims issued by unauthorized insurers, which are not covered by existing insurance guaranty acts. By providing additional remedies for those harmed, it seeks to fill the gap in consumer protection that currently exists under the law.
Contention
Notably, the bill contains specific terms regarding the handling of funds, including rules for the advancement and distribution of payments under claims. It grants the insurance commissioner expanded powers to manage the fund effectively and execute responsibilities related to claims approval. While the bill primarily focuses on consumer protection and insurance regulation, there could be concerns raised around the implications of state interference in insurance matters and how effectively the fund will operate in times of economic strain. Additionally, the legislation exempts the fund from certain fees and taxes, which may raise questions regarding its fiscal sustainability over the long term.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Energy Insurance Program and other funding mechanisms to support the construction and operation of electric generating facilities.
Relating to funding of excess losses and operating expenses of the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association; authorizing an assessment; authorizing a surcharge.
Relating to discontinuing group self-insurance coverage and dissolving the Texas self-insurance group guaranty fund and trust fund under the Texas Workers' Compensation Act.
Relating to discontinuing group self-insurance coverage and dissolving the Texas self-insurance group guaranty fund and trust fund under the Texas Workers' Compensation Act.
Relating to funding of excess losses and operating expenses of the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association; authorizing an assessment, a surcharge, and an infrastructure grant.
Relating to the transfer and statutory novation of insurance policies from a transferring insurer to an assuming insurer through an insurance business transfer plan; authorizing fees.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Parental Empowerment Program and an insurance premium tax credit for contributions made for purposes of that program.
A BILL for an Act to create and enact chapter 34-16 of the North Dakota Century Code, related to illegal aliens and private employment; and to provide a penalty.