Bill > HB1353

This bill establishes a new requirement for motor vehicle insurers in New Hampshire to offer premium discounts for vehicles that pass annual safety inspections. Under the proposed law, insurance companies must include in their rating manuals a provision for discounts on liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage for vehicles that complete a state-approved annual safety inspection. The inspection must verify major safety features like headlights, taillights, tires, steering, and brakes. Insurers can also consider additional shop recommendations but must base their rate discounts on demonstrable reduction in claims for vehicles meeting inspection standards. The bill importantly stipulates that insurers must verify the inspection meets state guidelines before applying any discount, and critically, policyholders cannot be penalized or surcharged for choosing not to undergo an inspection or for having a vehicle that fails inspection. The premium discounts will not have a mandated percentage but must be actuarially justified and filed with the insurance department. The law is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, giving insurers ample time to prepare and adjust their rating manuals accordingly.

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https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=2368&inflect=2