Insurance Rights Legislation Dies

His bill was killed, but several legislators said former Coeur d’Alene School Board member Eli Ross had some good points in his proposed “Automobile Insured’s Bill of Rights.”

“I certainly recognize the frustration that the good doctor has,” said Rep. Bill Deal, R-Nampa, an insurance broker.

Ross came up with the plan after his insurance company canceled his car insurance after he had three accidents, even though they weren’t all his fault. He said insurance companies should have to inform drivers that their plans or rates are in danger if they have claims, and should allow fault determinations to be appealed.

Three insurance lobbyists testified against the bill, saying it would be costly and unworkable and that current law has enough protection for drivers.

Rep. Jeff Alltus, R-Hayden, was the only member of the House Business Committee to vote against a motion to kill the bill. The other North Idaho committee member who voted, Rep. Wayne Meyer, R-Rathdrum, voted to kill it.