Senate Bill No. 170, introduced by Senator Allain, aims to amend and reenact several provisions of Louisiana's automobile insurance laws, specifically R.S. 22:1261, 1281, 1282, 1283(A), 1284(A), 1284.1(A) and (D), 1285, 1286, 1288(A), 1289, 1289.1, and 1292(A) and (B). The bill includes various technical changes to existing laws regarding the renewal of automobile insurance policies, the establishment of standard insurance forms, and the requirements for proof of motorcycle endorsements. It also reinforces prohibitions against insurers raising premiums or denying coverage based on nonfault incidents, lapses in coverage, age, or disabilities such as being deaf or hard of hearing.
Key provisions of the bill include the stipulation that insurers cannot increase premiums for policies renewed within ten days of termination due to a lapse, nor can they refuse to issue or renew policies based on the insured's age or status as a fireman. Additionally, the bill ensures that insurers cannot deny coverage for new vehicles based solely on impending weather conditions, such as named storms in the Gulf of Mexico. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance consumer protections in the automobile insurance market while maintaining the integrity of existing regulations.
Statutes affected: SB170 Original: 22:1283(A), 22:1284(A), 22:1(A), 22:1288(A), 22:1292(A)