COVID-19 Daily Insurance Regulatory Updates To Keep You Informed During The Lockdown (July 20, 2020)

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

Hawaii: On July 17, Hawaii issued Memorandum 2020-9A regarding the application and effective dates of insurance commissioner memorandums regarding new/renewing/reactivating licenses (Memorandum 2020-1LIC), waiver of certain requirements for insurers (Memorandum 2020-4A), and license examinations and license status (Memorandum 2020-5LIC). Due to the continuation of COVID-19, the memoranda have been extended until determined otherwise.

Health Insurance

Colorado: On July 18, Colorado Emergency Regulation 20-E-09 went into effect. The Emergency Regulation governs coverage and cost sharing requirements for commercial insurance market coverage of COVID-19 claims.

Delaware: On July 17, Governor John Carney signed HS 1 for HB 348, which temporarily codifies a number of provisions developed during COVID-19 that can increase access to health care due to expanding telemedicine.

Massachusetts: On July 20, the Division of Insurance issued Bulletin 2020-24, applicable to insurance companies, health maintenance organizations, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Inc., Fraternal Benefit societies and Workers’ Compensation Self-Insurance Groups. Bulletin 2020-24 updates Bulletin 2020-11, to continue to provide flexibility in the submission of certain regulatory filings during the COVED-19 public health crisis. Specifically, the Bulletin provides for submission via email, flexibility regarding notarization requirements, and other accommodations for required filings due during the COVID-19 pandemic.

West Virginia: On July 17, the West Virginia Insurance Commissioner issued Insurance Bulletin No. 20.15, which addresses COVID-19 testing at Nursing Homes. Specifically, the Bulletin is issued to advise that Emergency Order 20-EO-07, addressing testing of those who reside or work in nursing homes in the state, remains in effect, and health insurers must comply with the provisions of the emergency order.

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