SB 280 - This act expands two parts of Missouri's anti- discrimination law in the insurance area:

POLICY CANCELLATION, NONRENEWAL - Sections 375.001, 375.003 and 375.004 are revised to include motor vehicle insurance policies. These sections already required detailed explanations of the reason for any cancellation or non-renewal in a fire insurance policy. Also, cancellations can currently only be made under specific conditions.

UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICES - Sections 375.936 and 375.938 on "unfair discrimination" are revised to include motor vehicle policies. No insurer may terminate abroker because of the location of the risk. Insurers are required to offer coverage in the entire area of any city or county in which they do business (motor vehicle and property/casualty risks only).

The "business purpose" exception for unfair trade practices is revised to require sound underwriting and actuarial principles which are related to loss experience. The act also provides a means for individuals to make complaints to the Department of Insurance.

MIKE HOEFERKAMP