Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1730

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to own risk and solvency assessment by insurers and insurance groups; providing a penalty.

Impact

The introduction of HB1730 is set to impact existing state laws by integrating structured risk management protocols into insurance operations. The bill requires insurers to maintain a risk management framework conducive to identifying, assessing, and reporting material risks, thus potentially leading to an environment of greater accountability. This may also solidify the relationship between the insurance companies and regulatory authorities by creating a consistent process for high-level risk disclosures, enhancing regulatory oversight while safeguarding proprietary information.

Summary

House Bill 1730 focuses on creating a framework for insurers and insurance groups regarding the 'own risk and solvency assessment' (ORSA). The bill mandates that domestic insurers conduct regular self-assessments to evaluate and manage risks relevant to their business plans. This includes filing a summary report to the state insurance commissioner, which contains confidential information about the insurer's risk profile and capital sufficiency. The intent is to enhance the overall stability and resilience of the insurance market by ensuring that companies are robustly monitoring and managing their risk exposures.

Sentiment

Sentiments surrounding HB1730 appear generally supportive among regulators and proponents of stronger insurance regulations. Advocates argue that the bill will fortify the financial health of insurers by instilling a culture of risk awareness and proactive management within companies. However, there may be concerns from insurers regarding the administrative burden of compliance, as well as apprehensions about confidentiality breaches given the sensitive nature of the information involved.

Contention

Notable points of contention in discussions about HB1730 could arise from the operational challenges it imposes on smaller insurance companies that may struggle with the compliance requirements due to resource constraints. Furthermore, while the confidentiality of the assessments is emphasized, there might be worries from the insurance industry about the transparency of information shared with regulators and how these regulations will evolve in response to emerging market conditions. Critics could also argue that while the bill aims at improving oversight, it may unintentionally lead to increased costs for consumers as insurers might pass on compliance costs.

Companion Bills

TX SB655

Identical Relating to own risk and solvency assessment by insurers and insurance groups; providing a penalty.

Similar Bills

TX SB1007

Relating to own risk and solvency assessment by insurers and insurance groups; providing a penalty.

TX HB2786

Relating to own risk and solvency assessment by insurers and insurance groups; providing a penalty.

TX SB655

Relating to own risk and solvency assessment by insurers and insurance groups; providing a penalty.

HI HB2394

Relating To Insurance.

HI SB3083

Relating To Insurance.

ND HB1124

The standards and management of an insurer with an insurance holding company system and the confidential treatment of investigation and examination records of insurance holding companies.

CT SB00194

An Act Concerning Risk Management And Own Risk And Solvency Assessments For Domestic Insurers.

TX HB3460

Relating to the requirement that certain information be reported to the Texas Department of Insurance and the confidentiality of that information.