Oppose HB 604 by Representative Ray Garofalo, which requires the Louisiana Department of Insurance to establish and maintain a registry of umpires for property insurance claims. This would create an extraordinarily complex and difficult process that costs storm victims more money and makes it harder for them to rebuild their lives.

There are legitimate concerns regarding qualifications and availability with appraisers and umpires. This bill permits insurance companies to force policyholders into complicated binding agreements that policyholders must navigate on their own or spend money they do not have to enlist the services of an attorney.

HB 604 also creates conditions that are highly susceptible to corruption. Consumers could be significantly disadvantaged by allowing an elected official, like the Insurance Commissioner, who receives contributions from the insurance industry, to establish and maintain a registry of umpires who will issue binding decisions on disputed claims in which insurance companies have a financial interest.

TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS AS AN INSURANCE POLICY HOLDER: Email your legislator at the link below and let them know you oppose House Bill 604.