Washington Commissioner Issues Emergency Order in Response to Wildfires

On August 24, 2023, the Washington state Insurance Commissioner issued Emergency Order 2023-01 in light of the Gray and Oregon Road wildfires. This was issued in response to the Governor declaring an emergency because of the same wildfires.

The Commissioner is ordering that all insurers, insurance producers, surplus line brokers and other entities regulated by the Insurance Commissioner abide by the following between August 19, 2023 and October 17, 2023:

1. Provide a grace period of at least 45 days for nonpayment of premium, and waive any charges or fees that may come with the nonpayment of a premium.
2. There is no cancelling of issued policies for the nonpayment of premiums, unless directed to do so by the policyholder.
3. The 45 day notice period for nonrenewal notices is suspended and no property insurer shall issue a notice of nonrenewal less than 120 days before the expiration date of the policy. 

For more information please see the Emergency Order here.