The Alaska Division of Insurance published a bulletin asking insurers to provide relief to consumers impacted by the recent storms that struck the state’s west coast.
Governor Mike Dunleavy issued a disaster declaration on October 9, 2025, following the storms. The impacted areas include the Northwest Arctic Borough and the North Slope Borough. The declaration activated the State Emergency Operations Plan, which aims to provide relief to residents impacted by a disaster.
The Division is asking insurers to give a premium grace period of a minimum of two weeks to affected policyholders. The division wants to avoid lapses of coverage, especially while residents are going through a difficult period. The premium grace period does not mean the insured no longer has an obligation to pay the premium. The Division will work with insurers so they are not penalized for financial review requirements with respect to the delayed premiums.
Insurers are also reminded that they are required to respond to claims and communicate promptly with their consumers. Claims must be reasonably investigated, and an explanation must be given for the denial of a claim or an offer of a settlement.
The bulletin can be found here.