HB 1016.E - DIGEST

(AS OF HOUSE 2ND READING 3/14/05)

Provides that an insurer licensed to write liability insurance, such as homeowner's insurance, in this state may not deny an application for a homeowner's insurance policy, or cancel, refuse to renew, or modify an existing homeowner's insurance policy, on the basis that the applicant or insured owns or harbors a specific breed of dog on the real property, unless the dog is a dangerous dog as defined in RCW 16.08.070.

Provides that an insurer may require that the insured provide: (1) Written certification from the insured that the dog provides little risk based on the dog's nature and history; and

(2) Written certification that the dog provides little risk based on the dog's nature and history in the form of: (a) A written statement from a licensed veterinarian who may be familiar with the dog in question; or (b) a written statement from a licensed dog trainer from a canine obedience school; or (c) a canine good citizen certificate from the American kennel club.