On May 28, 2024, the Arkansas Insurance Department (ARID) issued Bulletin No. 7-2024 following severe weather that occurred in northwest and north central Arkansas. The weather occurred between May 24, 2024, and May 26, 2024, and resulted in a state of emergency being declared on May 26.

The bulletin notifies all insurance carriers and licensed producers and adjusters doing business in the state of Arkansas that a 60-day moratorium on the cancellation and non-renewal of personal lines policies for the non-payment of premiums has been issued. If a policy is to be canceled or non-renewed for any other allowable reason, the cancellation or non-renewal may be made pursuant to statutory notice requirements and for legally recognized reasons. The moratorium applies to all insurance policies issued to cover risks in impacted northwest and north central Arkansas counties.

The moratorium is not automatic. Policyholders must request the extension from their insurance carriers and must have suffered significant property damage, injuries, or related loss of life as a result of the severe storms. Where requested, the moratorium will become effective beginning on the date of the issuance of the Proclamation to Declare a State of Emergency in Arkansas. Insurers are directed to work with policyholders in paying the premiums that become due during the moratorium period. 

Please see Bulletin No. 7-2024 for more information. For any questions regarding the bulletin, please contact the ARID at insurance.consumers@arkansas.gov or 501-371-2600.