MI HB4463

Creates an independent Office of Public Insurance Counsel within the Office of Financial and Insurance Regulation to advocate for insurance consumer interests in Michigan.

Establishes a Public Counsel position appointed by the Governor with Senate approval for a 4-year term, requiring the appointee to be a Michigan resident, licensed attorney, with experience in insurance proceedings and commitment to safeguarding public rights.

Grants the Public Counsel authority to assess insurance rates, rules, and forms; access records in commissioner proceedings; and intervene as of right in matters affecting property and casualty, title, life, health, accident, and credit insurance.

Prohibits the Public Counsel from intervening in hearings involving individual insurer charters, licenses, acquisitions, mergers, solvency examinations, or agent licensing matters.

Restricts former Public Counsel from representing any person or receiving compensation for services in proceedings before the insurance commissioner for 2 years after leaving office.