AN ACT RELATING TO INSURANCE -- HOMEOWNER CASUALTY INSURANCE BILL OF RIGHTS

HB 7478 creates a "Homeowner Casualty Insurance Bill of Rights" for Rhode Island residents filing property insurance claims. It requires insurers to provide policyholders with a clear, written summary of their claims process rights within 14 days of a claim being reported, including specific timelines for acknowledgment (14 days), investigation confirmation (20 days), and settlement (30 days). The bill summarizes existing state law - such as the right to receive claim updates and contact the state insurance division - and advises homeowners on documenting damage, verifying contractors, and managing repairs. It does not create new legal rights or allow lawsuits against insurers, nor does it override existing policy terms.