Insurance commissioner details home‑hardening grants, explains drivers behind rising premiums

Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John (last name Moretti in transcript) reported to the Appropriations and Budget Natural Resources Committee on agency accomplishments, regulatory changes and the start of a grant pilot to fortify homes against wind and hail.

Commissioner Moretti said the department will open applications for an initial pilot under the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Act in early March and that the legislature set aside roughly $10,000,000 for the program. "We are about to launch that, basically March 1... March 3," Moretti said, describing a phased approach that focuses grants on areas with greater historical storm exposure to improve resilience and reduce future claims.

What the department told lawmakers

Captive insurance and national recognition: The commissioner highlighted growth in captive insurance business domiciled in Oklahoma and said the state won a Captive Domicile of the Year award. He said the department hosted national association meetings and expanded outreach to underserved communities, adding that licensing exams and study materials are now offered in Spanish.

Premium‑tax flows and markets: Moretti explained premium‑tax…