Bill > SB927

This bill establishes new regulations for pet insurance in Wisconsin, largely adopting provisions from a model act approved by 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 insurance in a way that makes them mandatory or duplicates coverage. Insurers must clearly separate the costs, terms, and advertising of wellness programs from pet insurance policies and disclose that wellness programs are not insurance. Furthermore, individuals selling pet insurance must be licensed and complete specific training on topics like preexisting conditions, waiting periods, and the differences between insurance and wellness programs. Insurers are required to verify this training and maintain records. The bill also mandates clear disclosures to policyholders regarding exclusions, waiting periods, deductibles, limits, claim payment methods, and contact information for the insurance commissioner. It grants policyholders a 15-day period to review and return a policy for a full refund if unsatisfied and no claim has been filed. Finally, the bill sets conditions for preexisting condition exclusions and waiting periods, prohibits waiting periods for accidents, limits illness/orthopedic condition waiting periods to 30 days, and prohibits them for policy renewals, while also preventing insurers from requiring veterinary exams for renewals or reclassifying covered conditions as preexisting upon renewal.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/sen/bill/sb927