In conjunction with the Locke Lord COVID-19 task force, we are reviewing, analyzing, and compiling regulatory updates to provide clients easy access to information during this unprecedented time.  If you have any questions on the subject matter below, do not hesitate to reach out.  The information below relates to state and federal bulletins, emergency orders, pending/enacted legislation, and other related actions taken in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

All Lines of Insurance

All States: On July 24, the International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS) launched a consultation on the effect of COVID-19 on the insurance sector.  Following up on the June 2020 Stakeholder Dialogue, the IAIS is seeking feedback from stakeholders on the implications of COVID-19 on the insurance sector, supervisors and the future work of the IAIS. Feedback is requested by 28 August at 24:00 CET.

Property and Casualty Insurance

Connecticut:  On July 24, Governor Ned Lamont issued Executive Order No. 7JJJ with a rebuttable COVID-19 workers compensation presumption. The Order will remain in effect for six months, unless earlier modified or terminated.

Pennsylvania:  On July 23, a state trial court judge in Pennsylvania ordered the coordination of certain current and future COVID-19 business interruption coverage cases pending against Erie Insurance Exchange throughout the state.  Judge Christine A. Ward, who yesterday ordered coordination of Tambellini v. Erie Insurance and other “Allegheny County Actions” with cases pending in Philadelphia and Lancaster counties “for all pre-trial matters, trial, and full and final resolution.” Significantly, “any further similar actions” filed against Erie throughout the state will be transferred to the Allegheny County Court and made part of these coordinated proceedings.

Health Insurance

Mississippi: On July 22, Commissioner Chaney published Bulletin 2020-11—Revisions to Bulletin 2020-8, Entitled “Form and Rate Filing Guidance for Individual, Small Group, and Stand-Alone Dental Plans in Mississippi”— providing further guidance for filers of dental plans in Plan Year 2021. In recognition of the additional utilization and costs associated with COVID-19, the Mississippi Insurance Department, in line with recent CMS guidance, will allow insurers to submit revised rates no later than 3 pm on August 17, 2020.