New Insurance Law in Colorado (HB 1407 Signed By Governor)
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We just learned this morning that Governor Ritter signed into law House Bill 1407 yesterday afternoon which has the ability to dramatically assist beneficiaries/insureds of insurance contracts, including those governed by ERISA. Generally speaking, the bill provides specific rights and remedies to insureds under insurance contracts whose claims have been unreasonably delayed or denied. Specifically, such a finding can result in the recovery of reasonable attorney’s fees and up to two times the actual damages sustained. See C.R.S. §10-3-1116, as now amended.
Additionally, the law bans the use of “discretionary clause” provisions within any insurance policy, including group policies. (more…)