The Vice Chair called the meeting to order and opened the Hearing on SB55.   The Assistant Revisor Ma gave an overview of the bill and stood for questions.  (Attachment 1)

Proponents appearing before the committee were as follows:

• Blake Roberts, Weddle and Sons Roofing, Kansas Roofing Association,  testified this legislation reserves the policyholder's control over their claim, ensures transparency in the repair process, and protects vulnerable consumers for being pressured into signing away policy rights. (Attachment 2)
• Kim Decker, Kansas Association Property and Casualty Insurance Companies, asserts this legislation will alleviate concerns that unrestricted assignment of benefits expose homeowners and insurers to abuse.  (Attachment 3)
• Phillip Arnzen, Regional Vice President, National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies, urges passing of this bill as it would enhance protections for consumers during a stressful period after a disaster; ensuring the consumer maintains full control over a claim. (Attachment 4)
• Adam Eathington, Director, Strategy, Policy, and Government Affairs, National Crime Bureau addressed the fact that when consumers are cut out of the claim process, predatory contractors are emboldened to engage in fraudulent activity. (Attachment 5)

Proponents providing written only testimony included:

• Arlen Briggs, Armed Forces Tire (Attachment 6)
• Sean Miller, Kansas Building Industry Association (Attachment 7)
• Scot Kibbe, Vice President, State Government Affairs, American Property and Casualty Insurance Association (Attachment 8)

There were no neutrals or opponents present.  

The Vice Chair closed the hearing on SB55

The Vice Chair Closed the meeting.