By Bob Katzen

The House, on a voice vote without a roll call, gave initial approval to legislation that would prohibit an insurance company from including in an insurance policy, a rider that prohibits the insured from hiring or using a public insurance adjuster or a public insurance adjusting firm. The measure has already been approved by the Senate. Additional approval is needed in each branch prior to the bill going to Gov. Maura Healey.

“An insured that has paid its premiums faithfully should have the choice to hire a public adjuster qualified to read the policy and get the claim paid,” said sponsor Sen. Joan Lovely (D-Salem). “With the House advancing this bill, both branches have now said plainly that a clause taking that choice away does not belong in a Massachusetts insurance policy … My hope is that we finish the work and get this to the governor before the session closes.”

“These adjusters provide an invaluable resource to consumers by walking them through every step of filing an insurance claim and using their professional experience to negotiate directly with the insurance companies,” said co-sponsor Rep. Brad Jones (R-North Reading). “[The bill] will ensure that these important protections remain in place for Massachusetts residents.”