Senate Bill No. introduced by A. Olsen establishes a new legal framework allowing claimants to request information regarding a tortfeasor's liability insurance limits before initiating litigation for personal injury or wrongful death. The bill mandates that claimants serve a request to the insurer of the potentially responsible party, which must include a signed statement affirming the legitimacy of the claim and the intent behind the request. Insurers are required to respond within 45 days, and if they fail to do so, the claimant can petition the court for sanctions against the insurer. Additionally, any disclosed insurance information cannot be used as evidence in court.
The bill also includes provisions to ensure compliance with the Insurance Information and Privacy Protection Act and specifies that the new section will be codified as part of Title 27, chapter 1, part 2 of the Montana Code. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.