HOUSE ADVANCES TEDFORD BILL TO IMPROVE INSURANCE ACCOUNTABILITY

The following information was released by the Oklahoma House of Representatives:

The Oklahoma House of Representatives has passed House Bill 2933, authored by Rep. Mark Tedford, R-Jenks.

The measure increases transparency in Oklahoma's insurance market while strengthening protections for policyholders navigating the claims process.

"We ask people to carry insurance to protect what matters most to them," Tedford said. "When that protection is needed, the process ought to be clear, consistent and easy to follow."

HB2933 requires insurers to submit detailed quarterly reports to the Oklahoma Insurance Department, including data on policies, cancellations, claims activity and dispute resolution efforts. The bill also makes this information publicly available, providing greater visibility into industry trends and insurer practices.

In addition, the measure establishes a Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights, improves timelines for claim responses and payments and ensures clearer communication between insurers and policyholders.

Tedford said the bill is about restoring confidence in a system people rely on during difficult times.

"A system works best when everyone understands it and can rely on it," Tedford said. "This puts structure around the process and helps bring a little more predictability to something that can otherwise feel uncertain."

The bill also strengthens enforcement authority for the Insurance Commissioner and updates consumer protections related to policy cancellations, rate increases and claims handling practices.

HB2933 now moves to the Senate for further consideration, where Sen. Aaron Reinhardt, R-Jenks, is the Senate author.