Montana § 33-16-1028 - Improper Rates -- Hearing

§ 33-16-1028. Improper Rates -- Hearing

Improper rates -- hearing. (1) If the commissioner finds that a rate is not in compliance with 33-16-1021 or that a rate has been set in violation of 33-16-1032 , the commissioner shall order that its use be discontinued for any policy issued or renewed after the date of the order, and the order may prospectively provide for premium adjustment of any policy then in force. (2) The order must be issued within 30 days after the close of a hearing, if one is requested by the insurer, or within a reasonable time fixed by the commissioner. The order expires 1 year after its effective date unless rescinded earlier by the commissioner. (3) If the commissioner disapproves a rate under subsection (1), disapproval must take effect not less than 15 days after the commissioner's order and the last previous rate in effect for the insurer must be reimposed for a period of 1 year unless the commissioner approves a rate under the provisions of subsection (5) or (6). (4) A determination made by the commissioner under this section must be in accordance with accepted actuarial standards on the basis of findings of fact and conclusions of law. (5) For a period of 1 year after the effective date of a disapproval order under subsection (1), a rate adopted to replace one disapproved under the order may not be used until it has been filed with the commissioner and approved within 30 days. (6) Whenever an insurer does not have legally effective rates pursuant to subsection (1), the commissioner shall, on the insurer's request, specify interim rates for the insurer that are adequate to protect the interests of all parties. The commissioner may order that a specified portion of the premiums be placed in a special reserve established by the insurer. When new rates become legally effective, the commissioner shall order the reserved funds or any overcharge in the interim rates to be distributed appropriately, except that minimal adjustments may not be required.