Texas Senate Bill SB1665

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the deposit of assessments and fees collected for examination expenses.

Impact

The passage of SB1665 is expected to streamline the process of funding examinations conducted by TDI. By specifying that funds collected for examination expenses will be deposited into a designated account separate from other revenues, the bill aims to ensure financial transparency and improve the accountability of the department's financial practices. This separation may further reassure stakeholders about how inspection costs are covered, positively influencing regulatory effectiveness within the insurance sector in Texas.

Summary

SB1665 amends the Insurance Code of Texas to clarify and delineate how assessments and fees collected for examination expenses by the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) are handled regarding their deposit and usage. This bill emphasizes the establishment of a specific account within the Texas Treasury Safekeeping Trust Company, which is dedicated to collecting these funds to cover the costs associated with the examinations of insurers and other regulated entities. The intention is to ensure that there are adequate resources for thorough financial oversight, which is crucial for maintaining stability and confidence in the state's insurance framework.

Conclusion

SB1665 demonstrates a proactive approach by the Texas legislature to ensure that the state's insurance regulatory framework is well-resourced and effectively managed. By addressing the operational financial structure of the TDI, the bill aims to enhance the integrity of examinations, thus contributing positively to the overall regulatory landscape within Texas. Stakeholders must remain engaged in future discussions to monitor the outcomes and adjust as necessary to ensure that the goals of the bill are met.

Contention

While the bill received overwhelming support in the legislature, with only one dissenting vote during its third reading in the House, there may still be underlying concerns regarding how these funds are initially collected and their appropriate allocation. Some may question whether the existing fee structure is sufficient to fully cover the intended examination costs without imposing undue financial burdens on the regulated entities. Therefore, discussions surrounding the balance of financial responsibility between TDI and those being regulated continue to be a focus for further analysis.