Texas Senate Bill SB918

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the size, terms, and election of boards of directors of certain insurance companies.

Impact

The passage of SB918 is designed to streamline the governance framework for insurance companies in Texas by providing greater flexibility in board composition and governance timelines. This legislative change aims to facilitate a more adaptive approach to board management, allowing companies to make adjustments that align with their operational needs. Moreover, the bill intends to modernize the election process for directors, which could potentially enhance corporate governance within the insurance sector.

Summary

Senate Bill 918 proposes amendments to the Texas Insurance Code that specifically address the size, terms, and election procedures for the boards of directors of certain insurance companies. The bill reduces the minimum number of directors required on these boards from seven to five, while also clarifying that directors are not mandated to be shareholders unless stated otherwise in the company's bylaws. Furthermore, it establishes that annual shareholder meetings for voting on directors must be scheduled as dictated by the company's bylaws, rather than by a fixed state deadline.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB918 appears to be largely positive within legislative circles, reflected by its unanimous passage in both the Senate (31-0) and the House (145-0). Supporters argue that the bill will promote better governance practices by allowing companies to tailor their boards in a manner that fits their specific organizational structures. The lack of opposition suggests that both lawmakers and stakeholders in the insurance industry find value in the reforms proposed by the bill.

Contention

Despite the broad support, some critics may express concern regarding the implications of reducing the minimum number of directors, fearing it could lead to less oversight and accountability if not managed properly. However, the consensus is that this bill does not inherently disrupt existing regulatory frameworks but rather refines them to better reflect modern business practices. At this point, there do not appear to be significant points of contention surrounding the bill, indicating that it addresses a recognized need in the industry.