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AR HB1770

Bill

Status

Introduced

3/29/2023

Primary Sponsor

Grant Hodges

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

94th General Assembly (2023 Regular)

AI Summary

  • Repeals existing Arkansas Code Title 4, Chapter 114 (Service Contracts Act) and establishes a new Arkansas Service Contracts Act under Title 23, Chapter 66 as a subchapter.

  • Transfers regulation of service contracts from previous framework to the Insurance Commissioner, who must review and approve service contracts offered in the state.

  • Requires providers to register with the Insurance Commissioner ($200 initial and annual fee), establish a business location in Arkansas with an in-state representative, and obtain commissioner approval before selling contracts.

  • Mandates providers maintain financial security through one of three options: reimbursement insurance policy with $15 million minimum surplus, 40% funded reserve account plus $25,000 security deposit, or $100 million net worth with parental guarantee.

  • Establishes consumer protections including clear contract disclosures, 20-day free-look period for returns with full refunds if no claims made, 10% monthly penalty on refunds not paid within 45 days, and right to claim unearned provider fees.

Legislative Description

To Repeal The Service Contracts Act; To Transfer The Duties Of Regulation Of Service Contracts To The Insurance Commissioner; To Establish The Arkansas Service Contracts Act; And To Regulate Service Contracts.

Last Action

Recommended for study in the Interim by Joint Interim Committee on INSURANCE & COMMERCE- HOUSE

4/6/2023

Committee Referrals

Insurance and Commerce3/29/2023

Full Bill Text

No bill text available