For Immediate Release:
March 12, 2024
HB3089 Passes Oklahoma House Floor: A Step Towards Lower Homeowners Insurance Rates
OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma House of Representatives has approved House Bill 3089, introduced by Rep. Mark Tedford, R-Tulsa, which aims to provide financial grants to construct or retrofit homes, making them more resilient against the destructive forces of tornadoes, windstorms and hail.
Under the proposed legislation, known as the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Act, grants will be made available by the Oklahoma Insurance Department to residential property owners who meet specific eligibility criteria. These criteria include an owner-occupied, single-family primary residence. The grants are intended to help homeowners achieve safety standards outlined by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS).
Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready applauds the Oklahoma House of Representatives for passing this measure highlighting its potential to assist Oklahomans in fortifying their homes against natural disasters.
“As Insurance Commissioner, I can’t control the weather, but I can certainly help Oklahomans fortify their homes,” said Mulready. “I am looking forward to seeing this bill becoming law and giving Oklahomans some relief when it comes to helping the consumer lower their homeowners rates.”
The Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Act will establish a grant program aimed at assisting homeowners in reinforcing their roofs with impact-resistant materials that meet FORTIFIED standards set by the IBHS. These funds will enable consumers to construct or retrofit their homes with impact-resistant shingles and other enhancements. Additionally, many insurance companies offer reduced premiums for homes with such modifications.
The bill overwhelmingly passed the House floor with a vote of 88-4 and is now set to be considered by the Senate, where it is sponsored by Sen. Dewayne Pemberton, R-Muskogee. If passed into law, the legislation will provide valuable support to Oklahoma homeowners in safeguarding their properties against severe weather conditions.