AIA Statement on Texas House’s Passage of Hailstorm Litigation Reform Legislation

WASHINGTON, May 8 -- The American Insurance Association issued the following news release:

Fred C. Bosse, Southwest Region Vice President for the American Insurance Association (AIA), applauded the Texas House's passage of hailstorm litigation reform legislation (HB 1774). If passed, HB 1774 would curb lawsuit abuse related to hailstorm litigation by requiring notice before a suit can be filed to permit the insurer to address any outstanding claim issues. HB 1774 passed the House on Friday by a vote of 92 to 55. It now heads to the Senate for consideration.

Mr. Bosse's statement follows:

"AIA applauds the Texas House's passage of HB 1774, which seeks to end weather-related lawsuit abuse. This bill contains common sense reforms that will end abusive and unnecessary lawsuits. Hailstorm-related lawsuit abuse only hurts policyholders and is creating an insurance claims crisis in parts of Texas. We urge the Senate to pass HB 1774 and will be working with Texans for Lawsuit Reform and the broader business community to advocate for its passage."

Celebrating its 150th year in 2016, The American Insurance Association (AIA) is the leading property-casualty insurance trade organization, representing approximately 320 insurers that write more than $125 billion in premiums each year. AIA member companies offer all types of property - casualty insurance, including personal and commercial auto insurance, commercial property and liability coverage, specialty, workers' compensation, homeowners' insurance, medical malpractice coverage, and product liability insurance.