The bill amends K.S.A. 40-284 to modify the requirements for automobile liability insurance policies in Kansas, specifically regarding uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. Starting January 1, 2026, any automobile liability insurance policy issued in the state must include coverage limits for uninsured motorist claims that are equal to the liability coverage limits for bodily injury or death. The bill also stipulates that underinsured motorist coverage must have limits equal to those of the uninsured motorist coverage, ensuring that insured individuals can recover damages that exceed the limits of the other motorist's insurance. Additionally, the bill clarifies that insurers are not required to offer this coverage in connection with excess or umbrella policies that do not provide primary motor vehicle insurance.

The bill includes several deletions and insertions to refine the language and clarify the provisions. For instance, it replaces "which" with "that" in various instances to enhance readability. It also specifies that the insured has the right to reject coverage exceeding certain limits, and outlines the conditions under which insurers may exclude or limit coverage. Furthermore, it establishes the subrogation rights of underinsured motorist coverage insurers and the process for notifying them of tentative settlements with underinsured tortfeasors. The existing section of K.S.A. 40-284 is repealed, and the new provisions will take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 40-284