Key Takeaways
- DISB regulates all insurance, securities, and banking activities in the District of Columbia
- The Commissioner is appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the DC Council
- DC uses a prior approval system for most property and casualty insurance rates
- DISB has authority to examine insurers, review rates, and enforce consumer protection laws
- The Department is located at 1050 First Street, NE, Suite 801, Washington, DC 20002
DC Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking (DISB)
The Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking (DISB) is the District of Columbia agency responsible for regulating the Property & Casualty insurance industry. DISB ensures fair insurance practices and protects DC consumers.
The Insurance Commissioner
The DC Insurance Commissioner is:
- Appointed by the Mayor of the District of Columbia
- Confirmed by the DC Council
- Serves at the pleasure of the Mayor
- Responsible for enforcing DC insurance laws (Title 31 of the DC Code)
- Authorized to adopt regulations, review rates, investigate violations, and discipline licensees
Commissioner Powers and Duties
| Power | Description |
|---|---|
| Licensing | Issue, suspend, revoke, and renew producer and company licenses |
| Rate Review | Review and approve P&C insurance rate filings |
| Market Conduct | Examine insurer business practices and financial condition |
| Enforcement | Investigate violations and prosecute unlawful conduct |
| Consumer Protection | Handle complaints and protect policyholders |
| Rulemaking | Adopt regulations interpreting DC Insurance Law |
| Rehabilitation/Liquidation | Take control of insolvent insurers |
DISB Organizational Structure
Key Divisions
| Division | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Insurance Bureau | Producer licensing, company licensing, rate review |
| Financial Examination | Insurer financial condition examinations |
| Market Conduct | Business practice examinations |
| Consumer Services | Complaint handling, consumer education |
| Legal Division | Enforcement actions, regulatory guidance |
Rate Regulation System
DC uses a prior approval system for most P&C insurance:
Prior Approval Process
- Insurer Files Rate - Submit rate filing with supporting data
- DISB Review - Department reviews for compliance (30-90 days)
- Approval Required - Cannot use rates until approved
- Disapproval - DISB can disapprove if excessive, inadequate, or unfairly discriminatory
- Appeal Process - Insurers can appeal disapprovals
Rate Standards
Rates must be:
- Adequate - Sufficient to maintain insurer solvency
- Not Excessive - Not producing unreasonable profit
- Not Unfairly Discriminatory - Reflect actual or expected loss experience
- Actuarially Sound - Based on credible data and accepted methodology
Exam Tip: DC's prior approval system is stricter than "file and use" systems. Insurers cannot implement rate changes until DISB specifically approves them.
Consumer Protection
Consumer Services Division
DISB provides extensive consumer services:
Contact Information:
- Main Phone: (202) 727-8000
- Address: 1050 First Street, NE, Suite 801, Washington, DC 20002
- Website: disb.dc.gov
- Email: disb@dc.gov
- Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:15 AM - 4:45 PM EST
Consumer Complaint Process
- File Complaint - Submit online, by mail, phone, or in person
- DISB Review - Department reviews complaint for jurisdiction
- Investigation - Contact insurer/producer for response
- Mediation - Attempt resolution between parties
- Resolution - Issue findings and recommendations
- Enforcement - Take action if violations found
Exam Tip: Know DISB's main phone number (202) 727-8000 and address (1050 First Street, NE) for exam questions.
How is the DC Insurance Commissioner selected?
What type of rate regulation system does DC use for most property and casualty insurance?