SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5042

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

As of January 16, 2017

Title: An act relating to authorizing funeral planning and funeral services as noninsurance benefits under group life and disability insurance policies.

Brief Description: Authorizing funeral planning and funeral services as noninsurance benefits under group life and disability insurance policies.

Sponsors: Senators Angel, Hobbs and Wellman.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Financial Institutions & Insurance: 1/19/17.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Adds funeral planning and funeral services to the list of noninsurance benefits a life insurer or disability insurer may provide.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS & INSURANCE

Staff: Jeff Olsen (786-7428)

Background: The Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC) regulates insurance providers in Washington, including individual and group life insurers and disability insurers. A life insurer or disability insurer may include certain noninsurance benefits as part of a policy including will preparation, financial and estate planning, probate and estate settlement, grief counseling, and other services identified by the Commissioner. Group life insurance refers to a policy that insures the lives of more than one individual as part of a specified group allowed by statute. Disability insurance refers to a policy that pays benefits if the insured becomes partially or fully disabled and unable to work.

Summary of Bill: Funeral planning and funeral services are added to the benefits a life insurer or disability insurer may include as part of a policy, with the prior approval of the OIC.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.