Texas House Bill HB386

Texas 2017 - 85th 1st C.S.

Caption

Relating to rate filings by the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association.

Impact

The enactment of HB 386 would notably reduce the bureaucratic hurdles faced by the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association when adjusting rates. Previously, TWIA required prior approval from the commissioner for these rate changes, which could delay necessary adaptations to account for market dynamics. This legislative change aims to ensure that insurance rates can remain in line with the risk assessment post the occurrence of windstorm events, ensuring that the association can respond more effectively to financial demands and market shifts.

Summary

House Bill 386 relates to the rate filings made by the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA). The bill amends the Insurance Code to streamline the process for rate approvals, allowing the association to utilize filed rates without prior approval from the insurance commissioner under certain conditions. This change is intended to facilitate quicker adjustments to insurance rates, which can be critical in the context of unpredictable weather events that impact windstorm coverage. The rate can be used if it does not exceed a specified percentage above the current rate and is filed timely.

Contention

The bill presents a point of contention as it may lead to concerns regarding the adequacy of regulatory oversight. Critics may argue that reducing the requirement for prior approval could increase the risk of rate hikes that do not sufficiently reflect the underlying risk or may not be justifiable from a consumer protection standpoint. Supporters of the bill, however, argue that the ability to quickly adjust rates without prior approval aids in maintaining the stability of the insurance market during periods of increased risk, especially following significant windstorm incidents.