The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) has released the results of a survey that determined the top ways that consumers have made lifestyle changes within the last year in order to save money with their car use to reduce their insurance fees. Over the last twelve months, 53 percent of Americans made this type of change with car insurance costs in mind. The insurance commissioners’ survey showed that the following changes were made by consumers: Among automobile owners, almost 20 percent exchanged their car for a less costly model…
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Louisiana insurance investigator killed raises safety concerns for industry
Early this week, two insurance investigators in Louisiana were found shot to death whilst in the midst of a fraud investigation. The incident caused concern amongst state regulators who have been railing against the prevalence of fraud in Louisiana. Now, the state’s Insurance Commissioner, Jim Donelon, is considering whether his agents will begin carrying weapons as a means to defend themselves as the insurance landscape becomes more volatile. The state’s Insurance Department will conduct a review of safety procedures, but Donelon is likely to institute his measure at the end…
Read MoreControversy surrounds the California health insurance industry
Blue Shield of California has had a tumultuous year when it comes to insurance rates. Earlier this year, the insurer sought steep rate hikes that drew the ire of the state’s Insurance Commissioner, Dave Jones, as well as criticisms from the public. After a lengthy battle in which the company refused to compromise on their proposed rate increases, Blue Shield finally submitted, abandoning their proposal altogether. Two weeks ago, the company came under fire again after the Department of Insurance revealed documents detailing how the insurer payed it’s top 10…
Read MoreOregon senators give community car sharing programs a much needed boost
Oregon senators have given their approval to a bill that eliminates a number of the obstacles faced by emerging community car sharing programs, in an effort that would appear to be designed to increase participation in this environmentally friendly activity. The House Bill 3149 was approved in a 25-3 vote. This bill was designed to set the personal vehicle sharing program standards. It has added the necessity for these programs to provide motor vehicle liability insurance, and should injury or loss occur during a time when the vehicle is being…
Read MoreNew bill in Maine calls for lawmakers to pay health insurance tax
Republican legislators in Maine have proposed a new bill that would levy a $4 monthly health insurance tax throughout the state. The bill notably exempts federal and state employees from the tax, drawing harsh criticism from both Democrats and citizens. Democrats had submitted amendments to the bill late last week that would remove the exemption for lawmakers, but the notion was dismissed by Republicans. However, Senator Richard Whittemore, R-Skowhegan, issued an emergency legislation that would require state legislators to be included in the tax. The reasoning behind the proposed tax…
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