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Advocates push for explicit written responses when premium-change is an error
Summary
Consumer advocates asked the RAC to add language requiring insurers to provide written confirmation to policyholders when an investigation shows a renewal premium increase resulted from an error; regulators replied errors are addressed by existing statutes but agreed clarification could help.
During the meeting advocates pressed staff to spell out remedies when a premium increase results from an insurer error. Michelle Drews of the Oregon Consumer League said the draft omits language making clear that a consumer who requests an explanation should receive a written response confirming whether an error was found. "I just think something in here needs to say that a consumer still gets a response in writing... telling them that there was an error," she said.
John and Kenton noted insurers already face regulatory obligations to correct premium errors under existing statutes and market-conduct rules, but they agreed the notice could be clearer about the written-response process and where consumers should send written inquiries. Kenton volunteered to review statutory requirements and return with suggested text; staff asked stakeholders to submit recommended language in writing so it can be considered before the next meeting.
