Senate Bill No. 199, introduced by Senator Myers, aims to enhance the authority of the Louisiana Department of Insurance in addressing insurance fraud. The bill amends existing statutes R.S. 22:1961, 1963, and 1968, and introduces a new section, R.S. 22:1962(G), which provides a clear definition of the "business of insurance." This definition encompasses actions related to the sale, advertisement, or solicitation of insurance contracts, as well as assistance in resolving claims under insurance policies. Notably, the bill excludes individuals lawfully practicing law or assisting patients with healthcare service authorizations from this definition.

The proposed legislation prohibits any unfair methods of competition or deceptive acts in the insurance business and empowers the commissioner to take action against unlicensed individuals engaged in such practices. This includes the issuance of cease and desist orders, fines, or other actions against those violating the law. Additionally, the bill allows aggrieved unlicensed individuals to appeal the commissioner's actions in district court, with the stipulation that filing an appeal will stay the commissioner's actions unless deemed detrimental to public interest. The bill is set to take effect upon the governor's signature or after the lapse of the time for gubernatorial action.

Statutes affected:
SB199 Original: 22:1968(A)
SB199 Engrossed: