So-called ‘murder insurance’ policies backed by the NRA for self-defense shootings deemed illegal in Washington
Dubbed "murder insurance" by some gun control advocacy groups nationally, the policies became available in
"The policies sold are deceptive and dishonest," Kriedler said in a statement announcing his decision. "I would be remiss as the state's insurance regulator if I didn't shut them down."
In a statement, an attorney for the NRA noted the insurance commissioner's decision included recognition that the organization changed its website marketing after an initial consumer complaint to
"As today's announcement acknowledges, changes were made to the
The association referred comment on the insurance plans to the companies marketing and underwriting them, the targets of the fines levied by the state. Lockton Affinity, a broker based in
Lockton has received notification of the insurance commissioner's action but declined to comment on regulatory matters. Chubb released a statement affirming it had chosen to end its relationship with the NRA on the self-defense insurance policies.
"Chubb confirms that we have received the
The companies have until
The NRA, for its part, has sought to distance itself from the creation of the policies, which were advertised and managed by Lockton. Known as "Carry Guard" plans, they are sold in conjunction with a training and gun safety program administered by the NRA and remain available for purchase online, though the companies involved say they'll cease offering them in October when an existing agreement expires, according to information provided to the
"Don't get caught in a legal nightmare," the website reads. "If you're ever forced to use a firearm in self-defense, you could soon find yourself at the center of a legal nightmare that could cost you your life savings -- or even cost you your freedom and years of your life."
Three levels of coverage are available, with payouts of up to
The plans are in violation of state law because they could cover upfront expenses for mounting a criminal defense, even if the policyholder later pleads guilty to charges or is convicted, the Insurance Commissioner Office said in its news release announcing its decision.
The agency reported 811 policies have been sold in
The NRA sued Lockton in federal court shortly thereafter, alleging breach of contract and calling the
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