[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 30 (Tuesday, March 11, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E430]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE

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                           HON. PATSY T. MINK

                               of hawaii

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 11, 1997

  Mrs. MINK of Hawaii. Mr. Speaker, I am introducing a bill to require 
notice to automobile insurance policyholders before a paid up policy 
can be either canceled or renewal refused.
  Many of my constituents without warning or for insignificant reasons 
are being cut off of automobile insurance coverage and with little time 
allowed to find another company.
  My bill will require at least 180 days notice before a cancellation 
or decision not to renew can take effect provided the premiums are 
fully paid up and there is no court order canceling the holder's 
driver's license.
  In many places in my district the only means of transportation is 
one's automobile. To have to drive without insurance coverage is a 
public hazard. People need to be told well in advance if a company is 
refusing to renew or plans to discontinue coverage.
  This is not interference with the company's right to decide who to 
cover or not cover. It is only a requirement of due notice. I urge my 
colleagues to support this bill.

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