In conjunction with the Locke Lord COVID-19 task force, we are reviewing, analyzing, and compiling regulatory updates to provide clients easy access to information during this unprecedented time. If you have any questions on the subject matter below, do not hesitate to reach out. The information below relates to state and federal bulletins, emergency orders, pending/enacted legislation, and other related actions taken in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

All Lines of Insurance

Delaware: On June 6, the Governor of Delaware issued the Third Extension to the State of Emergency, extending the State of Emergency due to COVID-19, including the Sixth Modification of the Declaration of the State of Emergency, which relates to the moratorium on cancellation and non-renewal of insurance policies. The State of Emergency is extended for 30 days.

Illinois: On June 5, the Governor of Illinois signed House Bill 2455 into law, creating a rebuttable presumption that an injury or disease arising from COVID-19 exposure for certain first responders and front-line workers is causally connected to the hazards or exposures of the worker’s employment.

New York: On June 6, Governor Cuomo issued Executive Order 202.38, extending the suspensions and modifications of law, and any directives, not superseded by a subsequent directive, made by Executive Order 202 and each successor Executive Order. As part of the Executive Order, the moratorium on cancellations and non-renewals is extended until July 6.

Health Insurance

Massachusetts: On June 8, the Division of Insurance issued Bulletin 2020-19 to Commercial Health Insurers, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Inc., and Health Maintenance Organizations about the Division’s expectation regarding carrier flexibility in the administrative of early intervention services.