SF2639 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Uninsured and underinsured motorist liability coverage amounts increase, motorcycle insurance inclusion uninsured and underinsured coverage requirement provision, traumatic brain injury recovery account and program establishment provision, and automobile insurance surcharge for traumatic brain injury recovery account and program requirement provision

Related bill: HF2494

AI Generated Summary

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to enhance protection and support for motorists and motorcycle riders in Minnesota. It specifically focuses on increasing liability coverage, ensuring uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is included for motorcycle insurance, and establishing a program to assist individuals recovering from traumatic brain injuries.

Main Provisions

  • Increased Coverage Requirements: This bill increases the required amounts for liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage for all drivers, including motorcyclists.
  • Mandatory Coverage for Motorcycles: Motorcycle insurance policies must now include uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, aligning with requirements for other vehicles.
  • Traumatic Brain Injury Recovery Program: The bill creates a specific recovery account and program for those suffering from traumatic brain injuries, organizing it through section 65B.85. This program provides expedited access to certified life care planners for individuals with such injuries.
  • Funding Through Surcharge: A surcharge will be added to automobile insurance premiums to fund the traumatic brain injury recovery program. Insurers are required to inform policyholders about these surcharges and how to access program benefits.

Significant Changes

  • The inclusion of uninsured and underinsured coverage is now mandatory for motorcycle insurance, which was not previously required in the same way as for other automobile insurance.
  • The establishment of a structured recovery program for traumatic brain injuries marks a significant new initiative, potentially offering improved assistance and resources for affected individuals.

Relevant Terms

traumatic brain injury, motorcycle insurance, uninsured motorist coverage, underinsured motorist coverage, liability coverage, surcharge, life care planner, recovery program, arbitration timelines, Minnesota statutes, commerce and consumer protection.

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
March 16, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
March 16, 2025SenateFloorActionReferred toCommerce and Consumer Protection
April 09, 2025SenateFloorActionAuthor added

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Increased liability coverage amounts for motorists."
      ],
      "removed": [
        ""
      ],
      "summary": "This bill amends regulations related to motorist insurance coverage amounts under section 65B.44.",
      "modified": [
        "Clarifies minimum coverage amounts for uninsured and underinsured motorist protection."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "65B.44",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 1"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "New verification processes for motorist insurance compliance."
      ],
      "removed": [
        ""
      ],
      "summary": "Adjustments to insurance verification requirements are made under section 65B.48.",
      "modified": [
        "Updated enforcement mechanisms for non-compliance."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "65B.48",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 5"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Inclusion of motorcycles in uninsured coverage mandates."
      ],
      "removed": [
        ""
      ],
      "summary": "Amendments to coverage requirements affecting uninsured and underinsured motorist insurance as per section 65B.49.",
      "modified": [
        "Alters the structure of underinsured motorist claim processes."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "65B.49",
    "subdivision": "subdivisions 3, 3a"
  }
]