Finance Committee amends SB984 to limit insurers' use of telematics, bars sub‑six‑month premium bumps

The Finance Committee held a short voting session March 17 and advanced Senate Bill 984, as amended, adopting changes that restrict how insurers may use telematics data in private passenger auto insurance and add consumer disclosure and appeal protections.

Supporters said the amendments balance consumer protections with industry needs. David (staff member) told the committee the reprint before members includes an amendment offered by Senator Bridal as a replacement for the sponsor’s amendment and a separate amendment the Maryland Insurance Administration (MIA) supports to clarify disclosure duties.

The committee’s reprint and adopted amendments make three main changes. First, the bill adds disclosure requirements and an opportunity for policyholders to appeal telematics determinations. Second, it prohibits an insurer from considering telematics data “for the purposes of reclass[ification] if it requires a higher premium,” language staff summarized as…