Around the PIA Western Alliance States – Week of June 9, 2025

Hawaii — Condo & Homeowners Insurance Relief: Thousands of home and condo owners in Hawaii are facing what could be unaffordable insurance premiums. This is especially true of older homes and condos.

Some are being denied coverage outright.

A new bill passed by the Legislature will give them a safety net. SB 1044 expands the authority of the Hawaii Property Insurance Association to temporarily give these home and condo owners affordable coverage.

“We are taking the issue seriously, that we set up appropriate safety nets and guardrails but also we set provided a pathway out for buildings that need to get themselves correct so they can make themselves more attractive to that industry," bill sponsor, Sen. Jarrett Keohokalole said. "Hopefully through that, by providing access to the segment of the market that doesn't have coverage, we want to signal to the market that they can bring their business here and we are a worth while risk to take."

If he hasn’t signed already, Governor Josh Green is expected to sign.

The bill also orders the Hawaii Department of Insurance to do a study on some long-term reforms to stabilize the island’s property insurance market.

Source link: KITV — https://bit.ly/3TgvK4X

Idaho — Idaho Department of Insurance issues guidance for breast cancer screening legislation: The Idaho Department of Insurance has published Bulletin 25-03 to provide guidance on House Bill 134, which requires health insurance plans to provide additional preventive breast cancer screenings at no cost to members for in-network services.

House Bill 134 was signed by Governor Brad Little on March 24, 2025. The new statutory requirements are effective January 1, 2026.

Idaho Code Title 39, Chapter 23 requires applicable health benefit plans to provide coverage for, at a minimum:

Annual Supplemental Breast Screening: Coverage for “all costs associated with one supplemental breast screening every year” for covered individuals identified as having an increased risk of breast cancer.

Cost-Sharing: Pursuant to Idaho Code § 39-2301(3), the annual supplemental breast screening must be covered with no patient cost-sharing (deductible, copayment, or coinsurance). This applies to services received from in-network providers. Idaho Code § 39-2301(4) clarifies that cost-sharing provisions contained in the policy or plan may be applied to other breast imaging services that are in excess of this minimum required coverage (e.g., diagnostic imaging, supplemental screenings performed more frequently than annually). Similarly, additional costs may be applied to services from out-of-network providers.

Prior to January 1, 2025, insurers are required to update and file plan documents and notify members about the new benefits. More details can be found in the bulletin.

“House Bill 134 will help Idahoans access the critical preventive services they need,” said Idaho Department of Insurance Director Dean L. Cameron. “We would like to thank the legislature for passing this piece of legislation, and Rep. Brooke Green, Rep. Dori Healey and Rep. Ilana Rubel for sponsoring this important bill.”

“Early detection saves lives, and I’m thrilled to have helped pass this impactful legislation that will make life-saving care more affordable and accessible for so many Idaho women at high risk for breast cancer,” said Rep. Brooke Green (18).

“Consumers should contact their insurer with any questions, or contact our department if they experience coverage issues,” added Shannon Hohl, DOI Market Oversight Bureau Chief. “Our consumer affairs team is available to help with insurance questions and concerns.”

Idaho — Wildfire season is approaching; take steps today to protect your home and property: Following one of the most destructive wildfire seasons in Idaho’s recent history, the Idaho Department of Insurance and State Fire Marshal are urging residents to take proactive steps now to prepare their homes and families before fire strikes.

To help Idahoans stay safe, the DOI and State Fire Marshal recommend the following wildfire mitigation and preparedness tips:

Manage Vegetation Around Your Home

    Remove dead vegetation (pine needles, leaves, and other flammable debris), especially within the first five feet of your home, including gutters, rooflines, porches, and decks.

    Prune shrubs and tree branches that are within five feet of your home or attachments.

    Trim tree branches so the lowest limbs are 6–10 feet above ground level to prevent fire from reaching the tree canopy.

    Dispose of yard waste like clippings, branches, and leaves to reduce fuel for wildfires.

    Maintain your lawn and keep it watered. If grass is brown, cut it down to minimize fire risk.

Safeguard Your Home

    Screen and seal vents and other openings to prevent embers from entering the home.

    Install working smoke detectors and fire extinguishers; check them annually.

    Use fire-resistant plants and mulch in your landscaping.

    Inspect and repair roof shingles or tiles. Class A fire-rated roofing offers the best protection.

    Store away flammable outdoor items like cushions and potted plants during fire season.

    Consider fire-resistant building materials when constructing or remodeling a home. These can offer added protection at comparable costs.

Be Prepared

    Review your insurance policy with your agent to ensure adequate coverage.

    Create a home inventory by photographing or filming valuable possessions.

    Store critical documents (all insurance policies, contact numbers, inventory lists) in a secure, accessible place.

    Make an evacuation plan, practice routes, and identify nearby shelters. Choose an out-of-area emergency contact.

    Pack a go-bag with essentials such as medications, documents, and clothing in case of sudden evacuation.

    Help your neighbors, especially those who may need assistance preparing.

“Wildfire threats are becoming more frequent and more severe,” said Dean L. Cameron, Director of the Idaho Department of Insurance. “Preparation today can save homes and lives tomorrow. We strongly encourage to act now – before the next emergency.”

The Idaho Department of Insurance has developed a detailed handout outlining these tips and offering additional resources. For more information or questions, Idaho residents can contact DOI Consumer Affairs at consumeraffairs@doi.idaho.gov or call 208-334-4319.