State should give policyholders a ‘bill of rights’

The Sun Herald, 8/14/8

When Long Beach homeowner Kevin Buckel was denied coverage for Katrina damage to his property, he set out to convince the Legislature to pass a Policyholder Bill of Rights.

During the last two legislative sessions, Buckel’s crusade has made progress in the House of Representatives, but not the state Senate. Perhaps the third time will be the charm.

Other states have similar protections for policyholders; so should Mississippi.

A Policyholder Bill of Rights should be a top priority for Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney.