Bill > SB1642

This bill restructures the Texas Department of Insurance by replacing the single commissioner model with a three-member commission. Specifically, the bill requires the governor to appoint three commission members serving staggered six-year terms, with each member having distinct expertise: one in insurance regulation, one in insurance administration, and one in insurance consumer advocacy. The governor will also designate one member as the presiding officer, who will serve a two-year term and cannot be redesignated more than once in a six-year period. The bill modifies multiple sections of the Insurance Code to reflect this change, transferring responsibilities from a single commissioner to the new commission and introducing an executive director who will be responsible for the department's daily operations. Qualifications for commission members remain rigorous, requiring expertise in insurance, business administration, and at least five years of professional experience. The transition will occur gradually, with initial appointments to be made by December 1, 2025, and the new commission structure taking full effect on January 1, 2026. The bill aims to introduce more diverse perspectives and collective decision-making to the Texas Department of Insurance's leadership.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1642