House Passes Bill to Ensure Language Access for Insurance Coverage

DENVER, CO - The House today passed legislation to enhance language requirements for insurance information for non-English speakers.

“With this legislation, more Coloradans will have access to critical insurance documents in the language in which they are most comfortable,” said Rep. Elizabeth Velasco, D-Glenwood Springs. “Insurance documents can be complicated to understand. Ensuring that all Coloradans have accurately-translated information  allows them to choose the best plans and coverage for themselves and their families.”

HB23-1004, which passed by a vote of 49 to 14, would require insurers to have insurance policy information professionally translated or be certified from a professional translator in a non-English language. It also requires insurers of auto, home, and renters’ insurance to offer policy documents in the same language that is used for  advertisements and to provide the policy application, policy and any related documents in any language upon request.