Protecting Consumers During COVID-19

Given the unprecedented nature of the challenges we face today, we prepared this report to assist state policymakers in responding to the crisis. This report makes recommendations regarding access to health insurance coverage, access to health care, health equity and racial justice, long-term care, and consumer education. Each section includes a brief overview, identifies challenges faced by consumers, and makes recommendations for state and federal policymakers. The report was drafted by the consumer representatives to the NAIC. The specific recommendations were not presented to the NAIC or the organizations with which the drafters are affiliated for formal endorsement. While this report focuses primarily on health insurance-related issues—for those who are uninsured as well as those who have lost their jobs and coverage—we urge the NAIC and state insurance regulators to maximize flexibility for consumers across all lines of business. Doing so will help alleviate the burdens consumers currently face and are fully within the authority of state insurance regulators.