SCS/HB 277 - This amendment requires health insurance carriers to use standardized forms for explanation of benefits and referrals. These standardized forms will be developed by a task force established by the Department of Insurance and the forms shall be used after January 1, 2002. This provision is similar to SB 120 (1999).

This act prohibits insurance companies from refusing to issue, canceling, or modifying private passenger automobile insurance policies on the sole basis of information received in consumer credit reports. This provision is similar to SB 9 (1999).

This act also requires that insurers provide information regarding the availability of insurance for loss caused by storm-sewer backup or sanitary sewer backup to original applicants or policyholders renewing a policy from July 1, 2000, to June 30, 2001.

This act prohibits insurers from denying a person automobile liability insurance because of the geographic location of the risk.
STEPHEN WITTE