HOUSE PASSES WALEN BILL ENSURING PET INSURANCE COVERAGE CONTINUES

The following information was released by the Washington State House Democrats:

The Washington State House of Representativeshaspassed a bill protecting insurance coverage for household pets.

House Bill 1078prohibits a pet insurer from canceling or refusing to renew a pet insurance policy based on a pet's age, the detection or development of a health condition, or the detection of a preexisting condition. It also requires pet insurance companies tomaintaincoverage for current policy holders and not impose new waiting periods or examinations when a policyholder is moved to a different affiliated company.

"Our companion animalsrequire significant investment andare essential to the quality of our lives,especially our most vulnerable community members who relyon companion animalsfor emotionalorphysical support," said prime sponsor, Rep. Amy Walen (D-Kirkland). "Every heartbeatin our homesmatters,and we should do what we can to ensure and protect their healthfor the duration of their lives."

HB 1078 passed out of the house unanimously. It now heads to the State Senate for consideration.