Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5053

Introduced
1/9/23  
Refer
1/9/23  
Report Pass
1/19/23  

Caption

Adding sublimits of coverage to an insurance policy's declaration page.

Impact

The enactment of SB5053 would result in changes to current insurance regulations, specifically impacting how insurance providers present coverage limits to consumers. By mandating the inclusion of sublimits on the declaration page, it is expected that policyholders will have a better understanding of their insurance coverage, which could influence their purchasing decisions. This transparency may enhance consumer confidence in insurance products and potentially lead to a more informed marketplace.

Summary

SB5053 aims to amend insurance policy specifications by adding sublimits of coverage to the declaration page of policies. This change is designed to improve clarity and transparency for policyholders, ensuring that individuals and businesses are fully aware of the limits on coverage for different types of risks or claims they may face. By codifying the requirement for sublimits to be explicitly stated, the bill seeks to mitigate any confusion regarding the extent of insurance protections provided under various policies.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB5053 appears to be generally positive, especially among consumer advocacy groups who support measures aimed at enhancing transparency in insurance policies. Insurance regulators and some industry participants may also view this bill favorably as a step towards bolstering consumer protections. However, there is also concern from certain segments of the industry regarding potential increases in administrative burdens and costs associated with compliance with the new requirements.

Contention

Notable points of contention primarily revolve around the additional operational requirements placed on insurance companies. Some industry stakeholders argue that specifying sublimits on declaration pages may lead to complexity, as existing policies may not have clearly defined amounts for various types of coverage. The potential administrative ramifications could create challenges for insurers when updating policies, which may lead to discussions about the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of implementing such changes without negatively impacting consumers or the market. The balance between regulatory clarity and industry practicality remains a focal point in the discussion around SB5053.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA LB470

Provide for attorneys to make unsworn declarations under penalty of perjury in lieu of sworn declarations

WA LB410

Require insurance coverage of prosthetics and orthotics

WA LB256

Change provisions related to insurance coverage of telehealth

WA LB253

Provide for insurance and medicaid coverage of biomarker testing

WA LB423

Provide for umbrella and excess insurance coverage to be stacked with uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage

WA LB68

Provide insurance and medicaid coverage for certain contraceptives

WA LB1274

Require insurance coverage of prosthetics and orthotics as prescribed

WA SB5721

Enhancing consumer protections for automobile insurance coverage.

WA HB2011

Enhancing consumer protections for automobile insurance coverage.

WA SB6252

Enhancing consumer protections for automobile insurance coverage.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.