House passes Solomon bill to regulate pet insurance
STATE HOUSE — The House of Representatives today passed legislation introduced by Rep. Joseph J. Solomon Jr. on behalf of the Department of Business Regulation that would codify standards for the pet insurance industry.
The Pet Insurance Act (2024-H 7435) would create a comprehensive legal framework within which pet insurance may be sold in Rhode Island. It would apply to pet insurance policies that are issued to any resident of the state and are sold, solicited, negotiated or offered in the state.
“Our pets are members of our families, and with veterinary care becoming so costly, more people are opting to buy insurance policies to keep them safe and healthy,” said Representative Solomon (D-Dist. 22, Warwick). “There is a tremendous need for regulatory standards in the pet insurance industry, and this legislation will protect pet owners by eliminating confusion by requiring insurers to provide detailed information about coverage.”
The legislation provides a list of definitions of terms to provide clarity to insurers and policyholders. It also spells out the information an insurer is required to disclose, such as whether the policy excludes coverage for such things as preexisting conditions, hereditary disorders or congenital anomalies.
Policyholders would have the right to return the policy, certificate or rider within 15 days of its receipt and to have the premium refunded if, after examination of the policy, certificate or rider, the applicant is not satisfied for any reason.
The measure now moves to the Senate, where similar legislation (2024-S 2812) has been introduced by Sen. Jacob Bissaillon (D-Dist. 1, Providence).
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