HB 23-1004 Summary

• Requires insurers offering policies in non-English languages to provide applications, coverage forms, policy documents, and explanations of benefits in the same language used in any state advertisements for that policy.

• Mandates insurers offer applicants a language selection form at time of application (new policies) or first renewal on or after January 1, 2024 (renewal policies), with 60-day response window before defaulting to English.

• Establishes translation standards requiring non-English policies be translated from compliant English-language policies by certified translators through the American Translators Association or qualified translators when certified ones are unavailable.

• Makes coverage rejections or exclusions voidable at the insured's election if insurers fail to comply, allowing recovery of reasonable attorney fees and court costs with premium waivers during reinstated coverage periods.

• Effective January 1, 2024, subject to referendum petition approval if filed within 90 days; applies to commercial automobile, personal automobile, homeowners', and renters' insurance policies.