California insurance commissioner issues bulletin requiring premium refunds, credits, and reductions

State Issues Covid-19 California Insurance

On April 13, the California insurance commissioner issued Bulletin 2020-3 to property and casualty insurers regarding premium refunds, credits, and reductions in response to Covid-19. In light of the reductions in risk across certain lines of insurance as a result of reduced activity during Covid-19, insurers are required to make an initial premium refund for the months of March and April to all adversely impacted California policyholders for certain lines of insurance as soon as practicable but within 120 days from April 13. The bulletin contains additional guidance regarding how to refund the premiums, whether approval is required from the Department of Insurance for certain changes in premiums, and reporting requirements for actions taken.