The American Association of Insurance Services has developed a countrywide filing of a new earthquake rating plan under its homeowners program.

The New York State Insurance Department has directed two insurance companies to reinstate 260 homeowners policies in the state after following up on four homeowner complaints filed with the department.

Dr. Hartwig testified before the Michigan House Insurance to urge policymakers to examine the underlying factors affecting high insurance rates. Chiefly among them, he said, is the state's unlimited threshold for no-fault claims.

Farmers Insurance Group of Companies has introduced eZsign, a settlement option for its customers with total loss claims.

The eighth and final defendant involved in an elaborate auto insurance fraud ring has been sentenced.

The most prolific headline generator by far this year was AIG, notes NU Editor Sam Friedman, who recaps key developments and puts them into perspective in his blog today at www.NUSamSoapBox.com.

Insurance industry officials say they are encouraged by the Senate Banking Committee's leadership that work is progressing on bipartisan financial services reform legislation, and the committee hopes to resolve remaining issues before January.

Liberty Mutual Group said it has received permission from the China Insurance Regulatory Commission (CIRC) to open its third office in China.