The bill establishes a comprehensive legal framework for the sale of travel insurance in Washington State, amending existing laws to clarify definitions and requirements. It specifies that the provisions apply to travel insurance sold to state residents and outlines the types of coverage included, such as trip cancellation and emergency evacuation. The bill distinguishes travel insurance from cancellation fee waivers and mandates that travel insurance producers and retailers must be properly licensed. It also introduces guidelines for premium taxation and allows for travel protection plans that combine various features, emphasizing transparency in marketing and sales practices to protect consumers from unfair trade practices.

Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions regarding the roles of travel administrators, requiring them to be licensed property and casualty insurance producers. It classifies travel insurance under an inland marine line of insurance and establishes that insurers are responsible for the actions of travel administrators. The legislation also outlines unfair trade practices related to travel insurance, such as prohibiting the marketing of blanket coverage as free. Furthermore, the bill redefines certain health care terms and expands the definition of "health plan" to include travel insurance starting January 1, 2027, ensuring a modernized health care framework that aligns with current practices and regulations.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 48.17.060, 48.43.005