The Special Investigations Unit pursues allegations of misconduct by licensees including insurance producers, advisors, public adjusters, reinsurance intermediaries, viatical brokers and providers, insurance companies, health maintenance organizations and self-insurance groups.
These investigations include the review of documented evidence supporting allegations of unfair methods of competition, unfair and deceptive acts or trade practices and other violations of insurance law and regulations. Referrals come from the general public, other state and federal investigative and prosecutorial agencies, as well as other sections within the Division of Insurance.
Investigations by the SIU often result in enforcement actions such as: cease & desist orders; the establishment of compliance programs; license sanctions such as revocation or suspension; and, the imposition of fines, civil penalties or assessments through negotiated settlements or administrative hearings. Special Investigators make referrals to agencies of the federal and state government and report evidence of criminal activity to the appropriate law enforcement authority. During the year 2005, the Special Investigations Unit was granted authority to report Enforcement actions online to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners Regulatory Information Retrieval System. Enforcement actions are also posted on the Division's website.