(a)  If at any time, subsequent to the applicable review period provided for in § 27-9-16 or § 27-9-17, the commissioner finds that a rate or filing does not meet the requirements of this chapter, he or she shall, after a hearing held upon not less than ten (10) days written notice specifying the matters to be considered at that hearing to every insurer and rating organization which used that rate or made that filing, issue an order specifying on what respects he or she finds that the rate or filing fails to meet the requirements of this chapter, and stating when, within a reasonable period after this, the rate shall no longer be used or the filing shall be deemed no longer effective. That order shall not affect any contract or policy made or issued prior to the expiration of the period set forth in the order. If the commissioner finds that an unfair discrimination exists in the application of a rate or filing to an individual risk the commissioner may, after a hearing held on similar notice to the insurer affected and to any rating organization which made the filing, issue an order that the discrimination be removed.

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Terms Used In Rhode Island General Laws 27-9-18

  • Common law: The legal system that originated in England and is now in use in the United States. It is based on judicial decisions rather than legislative action.
  • Contract: A legal written agreement that becomes binding when signed.
  • Damages: Money paid by defendants to successful plaintiffs in civil cases to compensate the plaintiffs for their injuries.
  • Tort: A civil wrong or breach of a duty to another person, as outlined by law. A very common tort is negligent operation of a motor vehicle that results in property damage and personal injury in an automobile accident.

(b)(1)  Whenever legislation is enacted that restricts or removes common law rights of action in tort and/or statutory rights as to causes of action or damages, within one year after the passage of that restrictive legislation, those insurance companies underwriting affected lines shall request hearings to be held to determine the effect of that legislation on insurance policies, their cost and benefits;

(2)  The findings of the hearings with reference to the decrease of frequency in claims shall constitute the basis for an immediate reduction of rates and if excess profits have been obtained, the commissioner shall order a refund of all excess profits, and he or she shall annually review the continued effect of the legislation until it is reasonably ascertained that a proper rate level has been established. Copies of any order issued pursuant to this section shall be sent to every affected insurer and rating organization.

History of Section.
P.L. 1948, ch. 2089, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 27-9-18; P.L. 1978, ch. 137, § 1.