OK. Democratic Club Members, here is my plan

[johncoby2]

I am going to propose a resolution to my club this January. I would like very club in Texas to consider doing the same.

It calls for the resignation of the Texas insurance Commissioner. As you all may know, ever since he became Commissioner our insurance rates have doubled, tripled, and our coverage has been reduced.

The legislature considers the insurance problem solved. Whatever.

Once the resolutions are passed, I will present them to Montemayor on valentines day. Take a look, review, modify, and pass it to your clubs and others if you agree.

[e-mail]
Homeowners Against Deficient Dwellings (Texas)


A Resolution
Calling for the Resignation of the Texas Insurance Commissioner
Jose Montemayor

WHEREAS the Democratic Party has historically been the champion of the consumer, providing for access to our court system and fair treatment for all consumer related issues.

WHEREAS the members of Bay Area New Democrats, all being consumers and many being home owners with insurance policies.

WHEREAS these policies like those all across Texas regardless of party affiliation, have doubled or tripled since 2001

WHEREAS these policies have had the coverage reduced or eliminated on significant items such as foundation, water, and sewer damage.

WHEREAS the insurance reform of the 2003 Legislative session has brought no rate relief for the policy holders of Texas and in most cases has caused rate increases

AND WHEREAS the leadership of the Texas Department of Insurance has provided little if any support for the consumer or policy rate relief.

RESOLVED, that the members of Bay Area New Democrats call for the resignation of the Commissioner of the Texas Department Insurance, Jose Montemayor and for the Governor, Rick Perry to appoint a Commissioner with no ties to the insurance industry and one that would support the consumers of Texas and bring real rate relief to the consumers.

Adopted by the Bay Area New Democrats Jan 12, 2005

[sonias]

1. Outstanding idea John

And totally agree with you, Montemayor is a total failure. Just the kind of man bu$h would consider promoting to a cabinet level position.

Do you know about this site?
http://www.texaswatch.org/

They do a lot of stuff concerning insurance. According to their site: "Texas Watch is a non-partisan, advocacy organization working to improve consumer and insurance protections for Texas families"


Maybe you should touch base with them as well. They have a couple of action items on their site that we should promote through our clubs as well.

Sonia

[johncoby2]

2. Texas Watch is the BEST org out there!

These guys are great. Fighting for the consumer. I have a hell of alot of respect for them.

We have worked on a number of issues together.

[crispini]

3. I'm in

remind me/ kick this thread after Christmas. I know a ton of club members up here and can probably get several to buy in on it.

[sonias]

4. On a related note - SB14

http://www.statesman.com/business/content/auto/epaper/editions/wednesday/business_149ca2969549c0b100d3.html
Insurers in Texas face tougher fines in proposed law
Bill would nearly double penalty on companies that overcharge homeowners
Wednesday, December 22, 2004
Two leading state lawmakers want to toughen penalties against insurers who overcharge Texas homeowners.

Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst and Sen. Mike Jackson, R-La Porte, on Tuesday unveiled Senate Bill 14, which would strengthen a 2003 law intended to tackle the state's insurance crisis triggered by rising costs for water damage-related coverage.

The bill could nearly double the penalty paid by insurers who overcharge homeowner premiums and would also penalize insurers who try to use the court system to delay rate rollbacks or rebates.

-------
I wish all the insurance industry bastards a cold day in hell.
:evilgrin:

Sonia

[johncoby2]

5. A little late for punishing for unfair rate hikes

This is just stupid. the rates are ALREADY high!