Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner

New laws

Legislative wrap-up for 2008

Major changes

The 2008 legislative session was marked with several successes for the Office of the Insurance Commissioner.

A safety net for people who buy health insurance on their own. Under the new law, the Commissioner will review rate increases to make sure they are justified.

Protection for homebuyers. Many title companies have a long history of using gifts and kickbacks to get real estate agents to refer customers their way. Not anymore. Now, the Commissioner will regulate the industry, making sure title companies make their rates public and enforcing limits on gifts and incentives.

Reduce administrative costs. We also received funding to identify and develop strategies for streamlining the administrative costs associated with providing health care coverage. The goal is to control health care costs for consumers.

Minor changes

A couple of small bills also passed, which will help us be more efficient.

We now have the option to send our exam reports of insurance companies by e-mail, rather than by standard mail.

We used to use several terms to identify insurance providers; those terms have now been made consistent in law.

What’s next?

Guaranteed health benefits (and peace of mind) for all Washingtonians. The Commissioner has developed a plan that will:

  • Guarantee coverage in a health crisis, for claims over $10,000 a year, including prescription drugs.
  • Provide basic preventive care, such as immunizations, cancer screenings, an annual check-up and an annual dental visit.
  • Reduce the cost of routine health care for people who want to purchase more comprehensive coverage.
  • Maintain choice and promote shared responsibility. Consumers will choose their own health plans and doctors, and will have guaranteed access to preventive care. This will encourage insurers to compete on quality and service, and eliminate the current practice of avoiding older and sicker enrollees.

Learn more about health insurance reform.

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