House Bill No. by Representative Adams aims to amend existing laws regarding public adjusters and home improvement contractors in Louisiana, specifically focusing on claims handling services related to property and casualty insurance. The bill amends R.S. 22:1693(G) to include violations of R.S. 37:2159.2, which establishes that any business entity acting as a public adjuster without proper licensure is guilty of unauthorized practice and subject to fines of up to $5,000 per violation. Additionally, the bill enacts R.S. 37:2159.2, which prohibits contractors or subcontractors from advertising or providing insurance claims handling services before an insured has initiated a claim for property damage.
Furthermore, the bill amends R.S. 22:1706(H) to reinforce standards of conduct for public adjusters, specifically prohibiting them from acting as contractors or subcontractors or providing any construction, roofing, or repair services related to an insurance claim they have processed. This aims to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure that public adjusters maintain a clear separation from the contracting process in insurance claims. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance regulatory oversight and protect consumers in the insurance claims process.
Statutes affected: HB121 Original: 22:1693(G), 22:1706(H)