The bill amends several sections of Washington state law regarding the reporting of fire losses by insurers. It introduces new requirements for insurers to report fire loss claims to the insurance commissioner within 90 days of closing a claim or making adjustments related to fire damage. The report must include specific information such as the zip code of the property, the date of loss, the amount paid by the insurer, the suspected cause of the loss, and the insurer's company number. Additionally, if an insurer suspects that a fire loss may be due to criminal activity, they are required to report this immediately to local or tribal law enforcement and the insurance commissioner.
The bill also updates the confidentiality provisions surrounding the information reported by insurers. It specifies that documents and information related to fire loss claims are confidential and privileged, not subject to public disclosure, and outlines the circumstances under which the insurance commissioner may share this information with various entities, including law enforcement and regulatory officials. The bill aims to enhance the reporting process for fire losses while ensuring that sensitive information remains protected.
Statutes affected: Original Bill: 42.56.400, 48.05.320, 48.50.040
Substitute Bill: 42.56.400, 48.05.320, 48.50.040