The

INSURANCE

RECORD THE VOICE OF TEXAS INSURANCE Published Since 1934 • Dallas, Texas January 15, 2009 • Vol. 75 No. 2

Texas Solons Start
Legislative Session on Jan. 13

AUSTIN—The 81st Regular Session of the Texas Legislature started its 180-day run on Jan. 13, 2009. Among the blizzard of bills up for consideration were the following of industry interest.

Rep. Roberto Alonzo (D-Dallas)

HB 197 (Auto) A person may not refuse to insure or charge a different rate for insurance based on sexual orientation or gender identity or expression.

HB198 (Claims) An insured may not settle or adjust a claim for compensation for non-economic damages without a complete review by an individual, based on the facts of the claim. It is deceptive claims practice to evaluate a claim

by using an artificial intelligence application.

Rep. Dan Branch (R-Dallas)

HB55 (Auto) The Transportation Code is amended to prohibit the use of a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle in a school crossing zone unless the vehicle is stopped or while using a hands-free device. An operator of a passenger bus with minor passengers may not use a wireless device unless the bus is stopped.

Frank Corte Jr. (R-San Antonio)

HB42 (Auto) Civil Practices & Remedies Code is amended by stating that a person may not obtain exemplary or continued on page 3

ACLI Backs NAIC Capital,
Reserve Relief Proposal

In This Issue

Special Focus:
Agancy Management &
Information Technology

WASHINGTON—ACLI President & CEO Frank Keating issued this statement regarding the NAIC’s proposed changes to reserve and capital requirements.

Independent Agents Should Use Internet Marketing Tools

“The American Council of Life Insurers strongly supports efforts by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) to explore changes to reserve and capital requirements. “At a time when our nation’s economy is in turmoil, state regulators are taking prudent steps to ensure these requirements are protecting consumers’ interests and allowing life insurers to best serve their policyholders.