Bill > HB1582

This bill prohibits insurance companies from using credit information, such as credit history or credit scores, when underwriting, rating, renewing, canceling, or deciding whether to issue personal automobile and homeowners insurance policies. The bill also restricts insurers' surveillance practices by prohibiting the use of drones to inspect private property without the explicit written permission of the property owner, and banning the use of satellite imagery or commercial observation tools to increase premiums, cancel, or decline to renew homeowners insurance policies. The legislation aims to protect consumers from potential unfair discrimination and privacy infringements, defining key terms like "consumer report" and establishing that any violations will be considered unfair and deceptive insurance practices. Insurance companies are specifically barred from coercing property owners into granting surveillance permissions, and the bill allows for such permissions to be voluntary, revocable, and limited in scope. The new regulations will take effect 180 days after the bill's passage, and while the fiscal impact is considered indeterminable, the Insurance Department anticipates potential challenges for insurers in adapting to these unique restrictions.

Business and Industry

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=2440&inflect=2