STATE SENATE PASSES BENNINGHOFF LEGISLATION TO ADDRESS ALLEGED LAPSES IN AUTO INSURANCE

The following information was released by Pennsylvania House of Representatives, Republican Caucus:

Legislation authored by state Rep. Kerry Benninghoff (R-Centre/Mifflin) that would solve a problem which often occurs when consumers change auto insurance carriers is now headed to the governors desk following unanimous passage today by the state Senate.

Most of my colleagues routinely have constituents coming into their district offices after receiving a letter stating their drivers license will be suspended for 90 days unless they can prove they have - and had - insurance issued before and after changing companies, Benninghoff said. Its time that we take advantage of 21st-Century technology to make this process more consumer friendly.

When a driver cancels his or her car insurance policy within six months from the original issue date, they are required to report the cancellation to PennDOT. There is, however, no requirement for them to contact PennDOT when a new insurance policy is purchased.

The alleged lapse triggers a written notice that the drivers vehicle registration may be suspended unless proof of insurance is provided, added Benninghoff. The online verification system (OLV) we will be using for automobile insurance coverage recognizes the continuation in coverage and eliminates the need for PennDOT to mail notices.

OLV instead relies on mandatory reporting of policy information by insurance providers, which creates a more automated system where canceled and new policies can be matched. The system can also alert law enforcement in address with uninsured motorists and prevention of counterfeit insurance cards.

Questions about this or any legislative issue should be directed to Benninghoffs Bellefonte district office at 814-355-1300 or his Reedsville office at 717-667-1175.

Representative Kerry Benninghoff

171st Legislative District

Pennsylvania House of Representatives