Bill > AB949

This bill establishes new regulations for pet insurance in Wisconsin, largely adopting the model Pet Insurance Act from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. It clarifies the distinction between pet insurance, which covers accidents and illnesses, and pet wellness programs, which are for general health promotion and are not insurance. The bill prohibits marketing wellness programs as insurance or selling them alongside pet insurance without clear separation of costs, terms, and coverage to avoid misleading consumers. It also mandates that insurers provide comprehensive disclosures to policyholders about coverage exclusions, waiting periods, deductibles, limits, and claim payment methods, and grants policyholders a 15-day period to review and return a policy for a full refund if unsatisfied and no claim has been filed. Furthermore, it requires licensed intermediaries selling pet insurance to complete specific training on topics like preexisting conditions and the differences between insurance and wellness programs, with insurers responsible for verifying this training. The bill also defines key terms such as "preexisting condition," "chronic condition," and "waiting period" to ensure consistent application and understanding within the industry.

Business and Industry

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/asm/bill/ab949