Texas Senate Bill SB75

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

• Filed: 11/10/14

Caption

Relating to insurer rating practices requiring prior approval.

Impact

The implications of SB75 are significant as it aims to enhance oversight and regulation of insurer practices to ensure fairness and accountability in insurance pricing. By establishing a more robust approval process for rating changes, the bill seeks to protect consumers from potentially unjust or disproportionately high insurance rates. This law is expected to contribute toward stabilizing the insurance market in Texas and upholding the integrity of the insurance system.

Summary

Senate Bill 75 addresses crucial aspects of insurer rating practices within Texas by requiring prior approval from the insurance commissioner for certain rating practices. The bill amends Section 2251.151 of the Texas Insurance Code to clarify that any rates determined to be excessive, inadequate, or unfairly discriminatory must be filed with the commissioner for review. Moreover, it stipulates that if an insurer files a petition for judicial review concerning a disapproved rate, they must continue to use the rates in effect at that time and cannot implement any higher rates until the review is resolved, unless they receive the commissioner’s approval for a new rate.

Conclusion

SB75 represents a legislative effort to clarify and streamline insurer rating practices, ensuring necessary checks and balances are in place. The bill encourages compliance and fair treatment of consumers while addressing the need for a regulated insurance environment. As discussions and analyses evolve around the bill, it will be important to consider both the benefits of stronger regulatory practices and the potential challenges faced by insurers operating under these new requirements.

Contention

While the bill appears to have consumer protection at its core, some may argue that it could impose additional burdens on insurers by requiring them to navigate a more complex approval process. This complexity may lead to increased operational costs for insurance companies, which could ultimately affect the premium rates offered to consumers. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding the balance of regulatory oversight and the need for insurers to respond flexibly to market conditions and competition.