This bill amends Section 1804 of Title 12 of the Oklahoma Statutes, which pertains to written consent for dispute resolution proceedings. It introduces a new provision stating that alternative dispute resolution pursuant to Section 2 of this act shall not be subject to the provisions of this section. The bill establishes a framework for a dispute resolution program managed by the Insurance Commissioner, detailing the eligibility of claims for mediation, which excludes certain situations such as suspected fraud or claims that have already been fully paid. It also mandates that mediation be voluntary for insurers unless specific conditions are met, and requires all parties to negotiate in good faith.
Additionally, the bill outlines the process for mediation, including the scheduling of conferences, the authority of parties to settle claims, and the conditions under which a settlement can be rescinded. It specifies that if a settlement is reached and not rescinded, it will be binding. Insurers are required to have representatives with the authority to settle claims present at the mediation, and failure to comply may result in civil penalties. The bill also grants the Insurance Commissioner the authority to create rules for enforcement, with an effective date set for November 1, 2026.