Senate Passes Lang Bill Modernizing Insurance Laws

COLUMBUS —The Ohio Senate passed Senate Bill 306, sponsored by State Senator George Lang (R-West Chester), legislation which updates and streamlines Ohio's insurance laws.

"In Ohio, we are fortunate to have a robust and competitive insurance marketplace," said Senator Lang. "Senate Bill 306 will help ensure that Ohio remains a premier state for insurance, which will continue to yield benefits for both businesses and consumers."

Senate Bill 306 updates several parts of Ohio's insurance statute. These changes include:

• Clarifying that any signature requirement placed on an insurer may be accomplished electronically.
• Updates to the Assigned Risk Plan to strengthen anti-fraud measures.
• Prohibiting a towing service or storage facility from charging additional fees once an insurer files an action on a disputed bill.

The legislation also bolsters consumer protections by prohibiting any repair facility from requiring an individual to sign a contract that:

• Interferes with a policy of insurance.
• Limits an insurer or consumer from commencing a civil action against a towing service or repair facility.
• Prohibits the consumer from transferring the title of the vehicle.
• Requires the consumer to pay the legal fees of the repair facility for filing any action design to return the vehicle to the consumer.

 "A competitive insurance marketplace is critical to our economic production and competitiveness," added Senator Lang. "This legislation will help ensure Ohio is the most business-friendly state in the country."

Senate Bill 306 has been sent to the Ohio House for further consideration.

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