News from the Senate Majority
Alaska State Legislature

Wendy Lindskoog, Senate Majority Press Secretary
State Capitol
Juneau, AK 99801-1182
Phone: 907/465-4582
web site: http://www.akrepublicans.org
Broadcast Actualities: 800/478-6540

For Immediate Release: April 7, 1997 Contact: Senator Dave Donley Staff - Laura Hosey, 907/465-3892

Bill To Protect Domestic Violence Victims From Insurance Discrimination Passes Legislature

Juneau -- The House Monday unanimously passed Senate Bill 14 to prohibit insurance companies from canceling, denying, or increasing insurance policies of domestic violence victims and to require insurers to disclose the reasons why insurance is increased, canceled or denied.

"The thought of insurance companies making it difficult for victims of domestic violence to acquire or retain an insurance policy is very objectionable," said Senator Dave Donley (R-Anchorage), sponsor of SB 14. "These Alaskans suffer enough pain without the added stress of doing further battle with their insurance companies."

"Insurance discrimination against victims of domestic violence has been a serious problem in the lower 48 and I want to make sure it does not become a problem in Alaska," Donley said. "Rather than wait for that to happen, I’m proud the Legislature has passed legislation to make certain that innocent and vulnerable victims are protected."

"Members of the Republican-led majority have committed to attack Alaska’s crime problems head-on. This legislation reaches out to ensure compassion in the systems set up to help those who are hurt by domestic violence," said Donley.

SB 14 was drafted with the advice and support of the Division of Insurance, and is supported by the Network on Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault, The Council on Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault, the Alaska Women's Lobby, AWAIC, the Anchorage Women's Political Caucus, and STAR Rape Crisis Center.

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Broadcast note: Radio Actualities are available by calling 800/478-6540.
^{= Dave Donley = Norman Rokeberg}