In a session dominated by the failed attempt to find a solution for further funding of the Honolulu rail project, a few insurance-related measures passed and have been sent to the Governor for signature.

    SB 952 expressly provides that the insurance commissioner has authority to approve long-term care insurance rates, effective January 1, 2018. The bill was sent to the Governor on May 4, 2017. 

    We reported previously on SB 799 here.This bill establishes a three-year parametric disaster insurance pilot program within DAGS to be funded by the interest from the hurricane reserve trust fund. The bill was referred to the Governor on January 23, 2017. 

    SB 387 requires health insurance carriers with a network plan to maintain a network that includes sufficient numbers of appropriate types of providers to ensure that covered persons have access to covered services. The bill specifies contract, disclosure, continuity of care, and directory publication requirements.  The bill awaits the Governor's signature.

    HB 522 establishes the Affordable Health Insurance Working Group to plan for and mitigate adverse effects of the potential repeal of the federal Affordable Care Act by Congress. The bill has been transmitted to the Governor.

    HB 1436 appropriates funds to the Department of Accounting and General Services to update statewide standards for hurricane mitigation and secure a reimbursement grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. The bill has been transmitted to the Governor.

    SB 953 requires a motor vehicle insurer to pay the applicable general excise tax and certificate of ownership fee when settling with a third-party claimant in a total loss claim. The legislation also ncreases monetary penalties for insurance fraud for a class C felony and misdemeanor. The bill is before the Governor.