The episode covers a discussion between host Karl Susman and Assembly member Heath Flora about two significant California insurance bills. The first bill, AB 637 (Deceptive Disaster Relief Advertising Act), requires disclosure from for-profit entities soliciting business after disasters. Flora, drawing from his 15-year firefighting experience, explains how this bill addresses issues with 'ambulance chasers' who exploit disaster victims. The second bill, AB 1354, would allow Californians to deduct insurance premium increases from their taxes between January 1, 2025, and January 1, 2030. Flora discusses how Proposition 103's artificial suppression of insurance rates for 30 years has led to the current crisis, with an expected 22% rate increase across the board. The discussion emphasizes the need for market competition to stabilize insurance rates in California, which is the fifth largest insurance market globally.

Introduction and Guest Background

Host Karl Susman introduces Assembly member Heath Flora, who represents the 9th Assembly District. Flora's background includes 15 years as a firefighter with Cal Fire, experience as a volunteer firefighter, and business ownership. He brings expertise in agricultural and public safety issues to his role in the assembly since 2016.

AB 637: Deceptive Disaster Relief Advertising Act

Flora presents AB 637, which requires for-profit entities to clearly disclose their status when soliciting business after disasters. He describes witnessing 'ambulance chasers' at disaster scenes since 2002, including the Cedar Fire. The bill mandates transparency about any connection to government agencies or insurance companies, with violations carrying a $2,500 penalty per occurrence.

Consumer Protection and Implementation

Discussion covers how AB 637 will protect vulnerable disaster victims from predatory practices. Flora explains that the bill applies to all forms of advertising, including social media, and enforcement will be handled by the Attorney General, Insurance Commissioner, and Department of Consumer Affairs.

AB 1354: Insurance Premium Tax Relief

Flora introduces AB 1354, which would allow Californians to deduct insurance premium increases from their taxes between 2025-2030. The bill aims to provide relief during the transition period as insurance rates adjust after 30 years of artificial suppression under Proposition 103. Flora discusses the expected 22% rate increase and the need to restore market competition in California's insurance sector.

Market Competition and Future Outlook

The discussion concludes with Flora emphasizing the importance of bringing competition back to California's insurance market. He notes that only single-digit numbers of carriers are currently writing new policies in California, despite it being the fifth-largest insurance market globally. Flora advocates for steady, predictable rate increases rather than sudden large increas

Wanna text us?

Insurance Hour is hosted by renowned insurance expert Karl Susman. Karl is a frequent guest on television stations such as ABC, CBS, Spectrum, The CW and FOX, and now his popular radio program is available online throughout California and world-wide.

Listeners can now tune in to Insurance Hour on great AM radio station KMET throughout the state of California.

In addition to traditional radio, Insurance Hour is available on several popular streaming platforms, ensuring that listeners can access the show at their convenience.

Audiences worldwide can now enjoy Insurance Hour at InsuranceHour.com, on YouTube, Amazon Music, Tuneln, Alexa, Apple Podcasts, and the iHeartRadio app.

For more information about "Insurance Hour" and its programming, please contact Lara Starr at pr@insurancehour.com

The video covers an interview on Insurance Hour hosted by Karl Susman with special guest Daniel Berlant, who was appointed as State Fire Marshal by Gavin Newsom in October 2023. The discussion focuses on wildfire prevention, protection, and response in California. Berlant shares critical insights about home hardening, defensible space, and the new concept of 'zone zero.' He reveals that 95% of wildfires are caused by human activity, with only 5% caused by natural events like lightning. The conversation covers the evolution of fire behavior over the past decade, with Berlant noting that summers in California are now 70 days longer than in the 1970s. The interview also discusses CAL FIRE's predictive modeling capabilities, firefighting strategies, and the collaboration between fire services and the insurance industry to reduce fire risks.

Introduction and Guest Background

Host Karl Susman introduces Daniel Berlant, appointed State Fire Marshal in October 2023. Berlant's career began with CAL FIRE in 2001 as a volunteer, progressing through various roles including the Fire Prevention Bureau and CAL FIRE Communications.

Home Hardening and Defensible Space

Berlant explains home hardening as building or retrofitting homes with fire-resistant materials. He notes that homes built after 2008 follow new building codes, but 90% of homes in wildfire-prone areas were built before these standards. He introduces the concept of 'zone zero' or ember resistance zone, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a 5-foot buffer around homes free of combustible materials.

Fire Causes and Prevention

Berlant reveals that 95% of wildfires are caused by human activity, with major causes including debris burning, vehicle usage, powered equipment use, and arson. He discusses prevention strategies and directs people to readyforwildfire.org for resources and self-assessment tools.

Climate Impact and Fire Behavior

Berlant discusses how California's fire season has changed, noting summers are now 70 days longer than in the 1970s. He explains how extreme weather events, including dry lightning storms and Santa Ana winds, have contributed to more severe wildfires in recent years.

Firefighting Strategies and Insurance Considerations

The discussion covers CAL FIRE's containment strategies, aerial firefighting capabilities, and the use of various firefighting tools including retardant and water drops. Berlant also details the collaboration between fire services and insurance companies, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive fire prevention measures for insurance purposes.

Wanna text us?

Insurance Hour is hosted by renowned insurance expert Karl Susman. Karl is a frequent guest on television stations such as ABC, CBS, Spectrum, The CW and FOX, and now his popular radio program is available online throughout California and world-wide.

Listeners can now tune in to Insurance Hour on great AM radio station KMET throughout the state of California.

In addition to traditional radio, Insurance Hour is available on several popular streaming platforms, ensuring that listeners can access the show at their convenience.

Audiences worldwide can now enjoy Insurance Hour at InsuranceHour.com, on YouTube, Amazon Music, Tuneln, Alexa, Apple Podcasts, and the iHeartRadio app.

For more information about "Insurance Hour" and its programming, please contact Lara Starr at pr@insurancehour.com

The video covers an episode of Insurance Hour hosted by Karl Susman, featuring an interview with California State Senator Ben Allen about proposed insurance legislation. The main focus is on SB 495, known as the 'Eliminate the List Act,' which aims to remove the requirement for total loss victims to provide itemized lists of lost contents when filing insurance claims. Senator Allen explains how this legislation was inspired by constituents' struggles following recent wildfires in the Palisades and Altadena areas. The discussion also covers broader insurance industry challenges in California, including market sustainability, climate change impacts, and regulatory reforms. Senator Allen notes that while California remains the 10th least expensive insurance market nationally, the system is under strain with some carriers leaving the market. The conversation includes detailed exploration of potential insurance product innovations and the role of the Department of Insurance in balancing consumer protection with market viability.

Introduction and Guest Background

Karl Susman introduces Senator Ben Allen, representing California's 24th Senate District since November 2014. Allen's background includes education from Harvard (BA), Cambridge (M.Phil), and UC Berkeley (JD), and he represents the West Side, Hollywood, and South Bay communities of LA.

Eliminate the List Act (SB 495) Introduction

Senator Allen introduces SB 495, explaining how it aims to eliminate the requirement for fire victims to provide itemized lists of lost contents when they've experienced total loss. He describes how many insurance companies are already voluntarily offering 100% contents coverage without requiring itemization.

Implementation Challenges and Industry Response

Discussion of potential retroactive application of the bill, with Senator Allen noting this aspect is still being determined due to complexities. The conversation covers how most insurance carriers have already stepped up to provide better coverage terms, often offering 70-80% upfront payments.

Insurance Market Challenges and Reforms

Exploration of broader insurance market issues in California, including rising costs, market sustainability, and the impact of climate change. Senator Allen discusses the need for reforms, including allowing predictive modeling for risk assessment rather than just historical data.

Consumer Protection and Market Solutions

Final segment focuses on potential solutions, including creating more insurance product options and better balancing consumer protection with market viability. Senator Allen provides his office contact number (310-414-8190) for constituents seeking assistance with insurance-related issues.

Wanna text us?

Insurance Hour is hosted by renowned insurance expert Karl Susman. Karl is a frequent guest on television stations such as ABC, CBS, Spectrum, The CW and FOX, and now his popular radio program is available online throughout California and world-wide.

Listeners can now tune in to Insurance Hour on great AM radio station KMET throughout the state of California.

In addition to traditional radio, Insurance Hour is available on several popular streaming platforms, ensuring that listeners can access the show at their convenience.

Audiences worldwide can now enjoy Insurance Hour at InsuranceHour.com, on YouTube, Amazon Music, Tuneln, Alexa, Apple Podcasts, and the iHeartRadio app.

For more information about "Insurance Hour" and its programming, please contact Lara Starr at pr@insurancehour.com

The video covers a detailed discussion by host Karl Susman on Insurance Hour about 10 new potential insurance laws being debated in Sacramento, California. The host analyzes each proposed legislation, focusing particularly on wildfire-related insurance reforms. Key topics include the California Safe Homes Act, Business Insurance Protection Act, and various other measures aimed at improving insurance accessibility and consumer protection. Susman provides detailed pros and cons for each proposed law, emphasizing their potential impact on both insurers and consumers. He notably mentions that the recent wildfires will be the most expensive disaster in U.S. history, and warns viewers to expect premium increases as a result. Throughout the discussion, he maintains a balanced perspective, acknowledging both the need for consumer protection and the challenges faced by private insurance companies.

Introduction and Overview of 10 New Insurance Laws

Karl Susman introduces the show's topic: 10 new potential insurance laws being debated in Sacramento. He emphasizes these are different from recent Department of Insurance regulations, explaining they are new legislative proposals that will impact insurance policies in California. The host announces the show's phone number (559-656-0317) and email (Questions@InsuranceHour.com) for viewer feedback.

California Safe Homes Act Analysis

Susman discusses the first proposed law, sponsored by Assemblymember Lisa Calderon, which would establish a grant program for wildfire mitigation measures. The program would provide state tax-free funds for fire-rated roofs and non-ignition zones. He outlines pros including enhanced wildfire resilience and potential premium reductions, while noting cons such as state budget impact and potential implementation challenges.

Business Insurance Protection Act Discussion

The host analyzes the second proposed law, sponsored by Senators Sasha Renee Perez and Susan Rubio, which would extend residential insurance non-renewal moratoriums to commercial policies. Susman explains how this could stabilize the business insurance market while potentially leading to premium increases and legal challenges.

Insurance Premium Protector and Public Adjuster Regulations

Susman examines the proposal to cap public adjuster fees at 15% and prohibit additional awards outside contracts. He discusses the implications for wildfire survivors and the potential impact on the public adjusting industry, expressing concern about arbitrary price caps while acknowledging the need for consumer protection.

Final Thoughts and Future Premium Implications

The host concludes by emphasizing that the California wildfires will be the most expensive disaster in U.S. history. Susman warns viewers to expect premium increases but assures that legitimate claims will be paid, encouraging listeners to take advantage of available discounts and opportunities to lower premiums

Wanna text us?

Insurance Hour is hosted by renowned insurance expert Karl Susman. Karl is a frequent guest on television stations such as ABC, CBS, Spectrum, The CW and FOX, and now his popular radio program is available online throughout California and world-wide.

Listeners can now tune in to Insurance Hour on great AM radio station KMET throughout the state of California.

In addition to traditional radio, Insurance Hour is available on several popular streaming platforms, ensuring that listeners can access the show at their convenience.

Audiences worldwide can now enjoy Insurance Hour at InsuranceHour.com, on YouTube, Amazon Music, Tuneln, Alexa, Apple Podcasts, and the iHeartRadio app.

For more information about "Insurance Hour" and its programming, please contact Lara Starr at pr@insurancehour.com

The video covers a comprehensive discussion about insurance issues related to recent California wildfires, hosted by Karl Susman. The host addresses multiple aspects of wildfire insurance claims, including how to handle total loss situations, smoke damage claims, and the California Fair Plan. Key points include the estimated $50 billion in claim costs, the process for accessing federal disaster assistance through FEMA and SBA, and the current state of the insurance industry in California. Susman emphasizes that insurance companies have been losing money in California for over a decade, paying out more in claims than collecting in premiums. He discusses recent regulatory changes from December that may provide a path forward for the industry, potentially leading to more competition and better pricing for consumers.

Introduction and Wildfire Insurance Claims Overview

Karl Susman opens the show discussing wildfire insurance claims and federal assistance options. He explains that homeowners should first contact their insurance company for claims, then explore additional federal assistance through FEMA grants and SBA loans. The host emphasizes that both insurance coverage and federal assistance can be accessed simultaneously.

Smoke Damage and Property Assessment

The host addresses smoke damage concerns, noting that while media focuses on total losses (estimated 12-13,000 structures), an equal number of properties may be uninhabitable due to smoke and ash damage. Susman discusses the lengthy cleanup process, mentioning that some areas like Power Stage fire zone may require 12-18 months just for toxic ash removal before rebuilding can begin.

California Fair Plan and Insurance Industry Changes

Susman explains the California Fair Plan's recent need for $900 million to access $6 billion in reinsurance. He clarifies that the Fair Plan is funded by private insurance companies, not taxpayers. The host discusses how new regulations from December 2023 may help attract insurance companies back to California, potentially leading to more competition and better pricing for consumers.

Future of Insurance in California

The final segment covers the insurance industry's challenges in California, with companies having not made a profit in over a decade. Susman discusses potential economic losses from recent events approaching half a trillion dollars. He emphasizes the importance of having multiple insurance companies competing in the market rather than a few dominant carriers, suggesting this would lead to better risk distribution and more stable pricing.

Wanna text us?

Insurance Hour is hosted by renowned insurance expert Karl Susman. Karl is a frequent guest on television stations such as ABC, CBS, Spectrum, The CW and FOX, and now his popular radio program is available online throughout California and world-wide.

Listeners can now tune in to Insurance Hour on great AM radio station KMET throughout the state of California.

In addition to traditional radio, Insurance Hour is available on several popular streaming platforms, ensuring that listeners can access the show at their convenience.

Audiences worldwide can now enjoy Insurance Hour at InsuranceHour.com, on YouTube, Amazon Music, Tuneln, Alexa, Apple Podcasts, and the iHeartRadio app.

For more information about "Insurance Hour" and its programming, please contact Lara Starr at pr@insurancehour.com

The video covers a detailed discussion about insurance claims and recovery processes following California wildfires, hosted by Karl Susman on Insurance Hour. He provides comprehensive guidance on various aspects of the insurance claim process, from initial filing to long-term recovery. Key topics include how to start insurance claims, documentation requirements, coverage for additional living expenses (with extended coverage mandated to 24 months by the Department of Insurance), handling smoke damage claims, and safety considerations when returning to damaged properties. Susman emphasizes the importance of professional assessment for smoke damage and warns against self-remediation of damaged items. He also discusses financial assistance options, including FEMA grants up to $40,000 and SBA loans up to $2 million at 4% interest over 30 years.

Karl Susman introduces Insurance Hour and begins discussing wildfire-related insurance claims. He emphasizes the importance of obtaining claim numbers when filing and explains that claims are typically handled on a first-come, first-served basis. He provides multiple ways to file claims: directly with insurance companies, through agents/brokers, or online.

Wanna text us?

Insurance Hour is hosted by renowned insurance expert Karl Susman. Karl is a frequent guest on television stations such as ABC, CBS, Spectrum, The CW and FOX, and now his popular radio program is available online throughout California and world-wide.

Listeners can now tune in to Insurance Hour on great AM radio station KMET throughout the state of California.

In addition to traditional radio, Insurance Hour is available on several popular streaming platforms, ensuring that listeners can access the show at their convenience.

Audiences worldwide can now enjoy Insurance Hour at InsuranceHour.com, on YouTube, Amazon Music, Tuneln, Alexa, Apple Podcasts, and the iHeartRadio app.

For more information about "Insurance Hour" and its programming, please contact Lara Starr at pr@insurancehour.com

2025 02 14 - The video covers a special episode of Insurance Hour hosted by Karl Susman focusing on scams and fraud targeting California wildfire victims. Broadcasting from a bunker rather than the studio, Susman details various fraudulent schemes emerging in the wake of the 2025 California wildfires, which he describes as potentially the largest natural disaster in U.S. history. He warns about common scams including fake government assistance offers, fraudulent contractors, price gouging in rental properties (some marking up prices 600% above normal), phony utility bill collections, and storage service scams. Throughout the episode, Susman emphasizes the importance of verification and due diligence, providing practical advice such as checking with the Better Business Bureau and verifying credentials. He repeatedly shares the contact number 559-656-0317 and email address Questions@insuranceHour.com for viewers seeking assistance.

Highlights

Introduction and Overview of Wildfire Scams

Karl Susman opens the show from a bunker, explaining that the episode will focus on common scams targeting wildfire victims. He emphasizes that these fraudulent activities have increased to the point where the California Department of Insurance has established a specific task force to combat them. Viewers are encouraged to report suspicious activity to insurance.ca.gov.

Government Impersonation Scams

Susman details how scammers pose as government officials offering assistance, warning that legitimate government agencies don't proactively reach out with monetary offers. He explains how these fraudsters either collect personal information for identity theft or request 'application fees' and 'expediting fees' for non-existent services.

Contractor and Housing Scams

The host discusses fraudulent contractors requesting blank contracts and upfront deposits, promising priority treatment for larger deposits. He also covers rental property price gouging, with some landlords increasing rates by 300-600%, violating California Penal Code regulations limiting post-disaster increases to 10%.

Storage and Legal Service Scams

Susman warns about fraudulent storage companies offering to collect and store belongings from damaged homes, and fake legal services claiming to represent wildfire victims. He emphasizes the importance of verifying credentials, checking Better Business Bureau listings, and consulting with insurance agents before engaging with any service providers.

Wanna text us?

Insurance Hour is hosted by renowned insurance expert Karl Susman. Karl is a frequent guest on television stations such as ABC, CBS, Spectrum, The CW and FOX, and now his popular radio program is available online throughout California and world-wide.

Listeners can now tune in to Insurance Hour on great AM radio station KMET throughout the state of California.

In addition to traditional radio, Insurance Hour is available on several popular streaming platforms, ensuring that listeners can access the show at their convenience.

Audiences worldwide can now enjoy Insurance Hour at InsuranceHour.com, on YouTube, Amazon Music, Tuneln, Alexa, Apple Podcasts, and the iHeartRadio app.

For more information about "Insurance Hour" and its programming, please contact Lara Starr at pr@insurancehour.com

The video covers a detailed discussion about California wildfires and insurance implications, hosted by Karl Susman on Insurance Hour. The host provides critical information about consumer protections, including protection against non-renewal for 12-24 months in wildfire-impacted areas. He warns about numerous scams targeting wildfire victims, including fraudulent contractors demanding upfront deposits and fake federal assistance offers. Susman explains that legitimate federal assistance is available through disasterassistance.gov, with FEMA offering grants up to $100,000 and SBA providing loans up to $2 million at 4% interest over 30 years. The host also discusses the California insurance market crisis, explaining how regulatory constraints and increasing natural disasters have led to insurance companies leaving the state. He notes that California, despite its high-risk profile, ranks as the 10th least expensive state for homeowners insurance, which has created an unsustainable situation for insurers.

Consumer Protections and Non-Renewal Rights

Karl Susman explains that homeowners in wildfire-impacted areas have protection against non-renewal from insurance companies for 12 months, extending to 24 months for total losses. Adjacent areas receive one-year protection. He directs viewers to insurance.ca.gov to verify their protection status and emphasizes the need to actively communicate with insurance companies if receiving non-renewal notices.

Wildfire Scam Warnings and Federal Assistance

The host warns about various scams targeting wildfire victims, including contractors demanding upfront deposits and fraudulent federal assistance offers. He emphasizes that legitimate federal aid is available through disasterassistance.gov, with FEMA offering grants up to $100,000 and SBA providing loans up to $2 million at 4% interest over 30 years.

Insurance Policy Management During Displacement

Susman advises on managing insurance policies while displaced, recommending setting up a PO box for mail, putting policies on auto-pay, and understanding coverage extensions. He explains that some companies allow liability coverage to extend to temporary residences and may permit reduced coverage on original properties during rebuilding.

California Insurance Market Crisis and Regulatory Changes

The host discusses the California insurance market crisis, explaining how strict regulations and increasing natural disasters have led to companies leaving the state. He highlights new regulations (Sustainable Insurance Strategy) implemented in December 2024, designed to modernize the 30-year-old laws and potentially attract insurers back to California.

Wanna text us?

Insurance Hour is hosted by renowned insurance expert Karl Susman. Karl is a frequent guest on television stations such as ABC, CBS, Spectrum, The CW and FOX, and now his popular radio program is available online throughout California and world-wide.

Listeners can now tune in to Insurance Hour on great AM radio station KMET throughout the state of California.

In addition to traditional radio, Insurance Hour is available on several popular streaming platforms, ensuring that listeners can access the show at their convenience.

Audiences worldwide can now enjoy Insurance Hour at InsuranceHour.com, on YouTube, Amazon Music, Tuneln, Alexa, Apple Podcasts, and the iHeartRadio app.

For more information about "Insurance Hour" and its programming, please contact Lara Starr at pr@insurancehour.com