By Litigation Practice Group
Earlier this month, we wrote about Oregon’s Department of Consumer and Business Services (“DCBS”)’s order (“Order”) suspending all cancellations and non-renewals in place as the date of the Order. The Order applies to all types of insurance coverage and provided that it would be in place through April 23, 2020, unless extended by the DCBS director.
On April 23, 2020, DCBS extended the Order through May 23, 2020. Insurance policies set to expire before that date will continue in effect. The extension is further relief to consumers and businesses, who will have additional time to file business interruption claims and be temporarily shielded from defaulting under insurance requirements in their loans and from incurring the costs of force-place insurance. However, it is important to remember that this extended insurance is not free; insurers are still allowed to bill for coverage provided under the extension.
Given the many unknowns surrounding the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is possible that DCBS could further extend the Order next month if conditions do not improve. The attorneys at Saalfeld Griggs continue to monitor and track state, local, and federal responses to the pandemic. We will continue to provide updates as they occur. Those with additional questions regarding how the Order may affect their business may contact our office and/or visit the DCBS FAQ.