Colorado Insurance Commissioner requesting that companies assist furloughed federal workers
Impacted employees should contact their insurance companies.
DENVER - Colorado Insurance Commissioner Michael Conway is urging insurance companies to work with furloughed federal employees, as well as federal contractors and their workers, by providing assistance and flexibility, especially concerning missed premium payments and possible cancellation of policies.
“Our federal workers and contractors didn’t ask for this shutdown, but now, like so many others, they’re suffering the consequences,” said Commissioner Conway. “These are our neighbors, our friends and our family. I am asking the insurance companies operating in Colorado to work with these folks any way that they can. I urge insurers to place a moratorium on cancellations for non-payment for these policyholders, to work with them to develop payment plans if necessary, and to generally help in any way possible.”
Furloughed federal employees or impacted federally contracted workers should contact their insurance companies to let them know about their current situation. It is important that people work with the companies to see what help is available.
While Commissioner Conway is requesting that all types of insurance companies work with their policyholders impacted by the shutdown, including homeowners, auto, life, disability and health insurance, he recognizes that many federal workers get their health insurance through the benefits program managed by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), which is not subject to Colorado regulations. Federal employees with questions about the insurance benefits offered through the OPM, including medical, vision, dental and long-term care, should refer to the furlough guidance on the OPM website. Of particular importance is a recent OPM fact sheet with information about vision and dental benefits and how qualifying life events for health insurance are being handled.
Impacted employees who may have difficulty contacting or working with their insurance companies can contact the Division of Insurance Consumer Services team to get pointed in the right direction, work through their questions or just get more information - 303-894-7490 / 800-930-3745 / DORA_Insurance@state.co.us.
###
About the Division of Insurance:
The Colorado Division of Insurance (DOI), part of the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) regulates the insurance industry and assists consumers and other stakeholders with insurance issues. Visit dora.colorado.gov/insurance for more information or call 303-894-7499 / toll free 800-930-3745.
About DORA:
DORA is dedicated to preserving the integrity of the marketplace and is committed to promoting a fair and competitive business environment in Colorado. Consumer protection is our mission. Visit dora.colorado.gov for more information or call 303-894-7855 / toll free 1-800-886-7675.
|
