The Senate Committee on Business and Commerce convened on May 15, 2025, to discuss several key legislative proposals aimed at improving the Texas insurance landscape and protecting consumer interests.

One of the primary topics was Senate Bill 2213, which proposes changes to the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA) board structure. Senator Kulkhurst highlighted that the bill mandates all board members to be Texas residents, ensuring local representation. The bill also specifies that three members must come from first-tier coastal counties, while three others can be from outside the coastal area, a shift from the previous requirement of being over 100 miles from the coast. This change aims to enhance the board's understanding of local insurance needs.

Public testimony was provided by Reagan Elmer, director of government affairs for the Independent Insurance Agents of Texas. He emphasized the importance of local representation on the TWIA board, sharing a case where a Houston-area constituent was ineligible to serve due to geographical restrictions. Elmer expressed support for the bill's intent to ensure that only Texans serve on the board.

The committee also reviewed House Bill 2518, which seeks to eliminate third-party financing for TWIA premiums. This bill aims to save policyholders money by allowing them to pay premiums interest-free, addressing concerns that some still incur financing fees despite existing installment payment options.

Another significant proposal discussed was House Bill 2517, which addresses the tax obligations of TWIA and the Texas Fair Plan Association (TFPA). Both organizations, which operate in residual markets and are heavily regulated, currently pay substantial taxes despite being non-profit entities. The bill aims to redirect these funds towards claims and reducing reinsurance costs, potentially benefiting policyholders.

Lastly, House Bill 4490 was introduced to protect sensitive information related to decedents in medical examiner offices. The bill seeks to keep this information confidential while still allowing access for law enforcement and donor procurement agencies. Supporters of the bill, including representatives from Harris and Travis County medical examiner offices, argued that current public access to this information can lead to predatory practices against grieving families.

The committee left all discussed bills pending, indicating further deliberation will be necessary before any decisions are made. These legislative efforts reflect ongoing attempts to enhance the insurance framework in Texas while safeguarding consumer rights and local interests.