Archive

This section of the website contains links to older OPIC publications and news articles.

Recent News

OUR FRIENDS AT FLASH® TO LAUNCH NEW APP FROM THE USA SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING FESTIVAL

The new 3D animated app, available now in the iTunes® store, creates realistic storm damage, allows users to blow a house down and rebuild storm safe.

OPIC's Improved Property and Casualty Policy Comparison Tool Now Available Online

AUSTIN—The Office of Public Insurance Counsel (OPIC) announces the release of its improved property and casualty policy comparison tool. Available on the OPIC website (www.opic.state.tx.us), this tool allows consumers to compare the terms of auto, home, condo and renter’s policies.

NAIC Names Texas Public Counsel Deeia Beck 2012 Consumer Liaison Representative

AUSTIN—On December 21, 2011, The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) named Texas Public Insurance Counsel Deeia Beck a funded consumer liaison representative for 2012. She was one of only 18 funded consumer liaisons selected. Advocates from all over the United States apply to join this program.

OPIC Argues Case Seeking Refunds for State Farm Lloyds Policyholders Before Third Court of Appeals

AUSTIN—On December 14, 2011, Public Counsel Deeia Beck presented argument before the Third Court of Appeals in Austin in support of the refunds awarded to policyholders by former Insurance Commissioner Mike Geeslin in the State Farm Lloyds litigation. The Justices took the matter under advisement and will issue a decision after they have made their determination.

Legislature Prohibits Discretionary Clauses

AUSTIN—On January 1, 2012, a new law banning the use of discretionary clauses in certain insurance policies went into effect. House Bill 3017, 82nd Legislature Regular Session (2011), prohibits the inclusion of discretionary clauses in Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) evidence of coverage forms and life, health, and disability insurance policies. Discretionary clauses are contract provisions that provide insurers the sole discretion in deciding if, when, and what benefits are due under the insurance policy.