Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2067

Filed
1/24/25  
Out of House Committee
4/10/25  
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to declination, cancellation, or nonrenewal of insurance policies.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2067 would effectively amend the Texas Insurance Code, thereby changing the regulatory framework governing how insurance companies operate in the state. The changes would require insurers to submit quarterly reports summarizing their reasons for declinations, cancellations, or non-renewals. This information would be aggregated and made accessible to the public, allowing for greater oversight and enhancing consumer protection. By implementing these changes, the bill seeks to create a more informed insurance market and reduce the uncertainty faced by individuals and businesses seeking coverage.

Summary

House Bill 2067 addresses important aspects of insurance policies by establishing clear requirements surrounding the declination, cancellation, and non-renewal of these policies. Specifically, the bill aims to enhance transparency in the insurance industry by mandating that insurers provide written statements outlining the reasons for these actions. Such provisions are designed to empower policyholders and applicants with better understanding of their insurance decisions and foster accountability among insurers. The bill covers various types of insurance including liability and commercial property policies, with additional considerations for workers' compensation insurance products.

Sentiment

The sentiment around the bill has been largely positive among consumer advocacy groups who support increased transparency in insurance operations. Proponents argue that the requirements set forth in HB 2067 will protect consumers and hold insurance companies accountable, ensuring that individuals receive fair treatment in the marketplace. However, there may be concerns from some insurance providers regarding the additional bureaucratic burden the bill could introduce, which could impact operational efficiencies. The balancing act between consumer rights and industry interests has framed much of the discussion surrounding the bill.

Contention

While there is broad support for transparency in insurance dealings, some stakeholders express apprehension regarding the potential implications of the reporting requirements. There are concerns that the increased regulatory oversight could lead to higher operational costs for insurance companies, which could, in turn, be passed on to consumers via higher premiums. Furthermore, some argue that the requirements may lead to a lack of flexibility in the decisions made by insurers, limiting their ability to operate in a competitive market. The discussions around HB 2067 reflect ongoing tensions in the insurance industry regarding regulation and consumer protection.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Insurance Code

  • Chapter 551. Practices Relating To Declination, Cancellation, And Nonrenewal Of Insurance Policies
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 109
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 109
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 109
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 109

Companion Bills

TX SB1006

Identical Relating to declination, cancellation, or nonrenewal of insurance policies.

Similar Bills

CA AB2474

Department of Insurance: contact information.

CA AB2756

Residential property insurance.

LA SB209

Provides that an insurer may nonrenew up to three percent of its homeowners' insurance business in any calendar year. (8/1/12)

HI SB752

Relating To Insurance.

HI SB3272

Relating To Insurance.

CA SB365

Fire insurance: reporting on cancellation and nonrenewal.

TX SB1600

Relating to the resignation or termination or nonrenewal of the contract of a superintendent of a school district.

LA HB345

Provides for notices relative to residential property insurance