Insurance news: Study says no big rise in premiums, MI lawmakers target auto coverage costs, Passaic NJ thinking of billing insurers for firefighting

Seattle Times: Women’s insurance amendment gets first Senate vote


Car insurance scofflaws raise health mandate doubt

NY Times: Report cites big shortfall in reserves at AIG

No big cost rise in U.S. premiums is seen in study

(Spokane, WA) Spokesman-Review: Hospitals awaiting reform assurances


Michigan: House Democrats unveil plan to cut auto insurance rates: The legislative plan would require insurance companies to offer low-cost auto insurance to low-income drivers with good driving records. The 10-bill package also would:
• Prohibit insurance companies from using some factors to set rates, such as drivers’ level of education, their occupations and personal credit ratings.
• Prohibit auto insurance rate increases for those with good driving records who are not at fault in accidents. • Allow the state insurance commissioner to deny rate hikes by insurance companies before the rates take effect, and order refunds for consumers who are charged too much.

NJ: City of Passaic is considering billing insurers for firefighting costs: $500 for a home and $25k for a business.