July 14, 2016

Mid-2016 Regulatory Round Up

By: Holli Bratt and Leslie Kosal

Keeping you up to date on regulatory changes in the insurance industry.

As usual around the middle of the year, we're seeing a LOT of upcoming law changes, so we've compiled a quick state-by-state list of some things you may want to be ready for or be aware of!

Change Trends in Q2

With over 20 regulatory changes during the 2nd quarter, trends we're seeing are focused around Adjuster licensing and Travel lines. You can see from the lists below that the trend to modify Adjuster licensing laws is continuing, as several states are proposing adopting the NAIC Adjuster Model Act and making other changes to move toward uniformity in Adjuster licensing. With such high trends in adjuster licensing, we've put together a few best practices to keep you current with the changes! Check them out here.

Uniformity

Speaking of uniformity, we are also seeing a uniformity trend in the realignment of license renewal periods. Both Alaska and Mississippi are implementing end of birth month renewals, which is the preferred uniform standard.

At a higher level, states like California and New Mexico are seeking to move towards national model acts, moving toward uniformity for adjusters and producers. Expect to see more changes as the push for uniformity increases and expands at a national level. Updates on theses ongoing initiatives will be discussed at the NAIC National Meeting in San Diego at the end of August.

Most recent updates

• Florida: Effective July 15, 2016
• Implementing Non-Resident Adjuster Licensing
• Mississippi: Effective July 1, 2016
• Renewal periods will change from birth date biennium to end of birth month biennium
• Texas: Effective June 10, 2016
• Implemented Non-resident adjuster applications

Things to look for Next Quarter and Beyond

• Alaska:
• License expiration will change to the last day of birth month
• Arizona:
• Email address will be required for all licensed producers
• 30 day notice is required for all email address changes
• California
• The state is conforming to the NAIC Adjuster Model Act
• Opening licenses for Public Adjusters - SB488
• Opening licenses for Independent Adjusters - AB2588
• Louisiana:
• Reviewing adjuster lines, with the intent to be more
• Reinstatement period for adjusters will change from one year to two years
• Implementing a limited line for Self Storage (business entities only)
• Implementing a 180 day notice for independent adjuster terminations (in review)
• Maryland:
• Adjusters will be required to adhere to CE standards
• Email address will be required for all licensees in the state
• 30 day notice required for all email address changes
• Minnesota:
• The state is currently reviewing MGA and Broker laws and requirements
• New Mexico:
• The state will be adopting PLMA
• Adjusters will be required to adhere to CE standards
• Wyoming:
• Pharmacy licenses will be going for approval
• TPA license requirement changes are being reviewed
• Idaho will be added as an accepted DHS, Delaware will be removed

Tired of checking numerous state websites to stay up to date on regulatory change? Learn about ePAL, our electronic reference tool that houses all regulatory forms and requirements in one location! Or, follow our Anatomy of a Regulatory Change series to learn best practices and help you better understand the regulatory change process!

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