An Act To Prohibit Unfair Discrimination in Long-term Care Insurance

Sec. 1. 24-A MRSA §2159-D  is enacted to read:

§ 2159-D.  Insurance discrimination solely on account of gender prohibited

An insurer authorized to transact business in this State may not refuse to issue or renew long-term care insurance or limit the amount, extent or kind of coverage available to an individual or charge an individual a different rate on the basis of gender.

Sec. 2. Bureau of Insurance evaluation; report. The Department of Professional and Financial Regulation, Bureau of Insurance shall evaluate and identify the best methods to stabilize rates and prevent unfair discrimination in long-term care insurance. In conducting the evaluation, the bureau shall consult with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners for information on the experience of other states relative to rate stabilization. On or before February 1, 2014, the bureau shall submit a report based on its evaluation that includes its recommendations for long-term care insurance rate stabilization practices and any suggested legislation to the Joint Standing Committee on Insurance and Financial Services. The joint standing committee may submit a bill based on the report to the Second Regular Session of the 126th Legislature.

summary

This bill prohibits unfair discrimination on the basis of gender in the underwriting of long-term care insurance. The bill also requires the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation, Bureau of Insurance to evaluate the best methods to stabilize rates for long-term care insurance and to submit a report to the Joint Standing Committee on Insurance and Financial Services.