HF1880

This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 325F.71, to enhance consumer protection for senior citizens (62 years or older) and disabled persons regarding disability and long-term care insurance policies.

Key Provisions:

1. Definitions Expanded:

   • Clarifies the definitions of senior citizen, disabled person, insurance policy, and major life activities to ensure eligibility for protections under the law.

2. Insurer Accountability (New Subd. 2a):

   • Senior citizens or disabled persons have private remedies if:
     • An insurer unreasonably denies benefits.
     • The insurer knew they lacked a reasonable basis for denial.
     • The insurer acted recklessly in disregarding the lack of a valid basis for denial.

Impact:

• Strengthens legal recourse for senior citizens and disabled persons against unfair benefit denials.
• Holds insurance companies accountable for unjustified denials of disability or long-term care benefits.

This bill is aimed at enhancing consumer protections, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the insurance benefits they are entitled to under their policies.