Pet insurers writing business in Rhode Island will soon face strict compliance requirements under a new law that could set the tone nationally. The state’s General Assembly passed the Pet Insurance Act (H 5569 Substitute A) on February 26, 2025, with the law taking effect January 1, 2026.
The law, introduced by Representative Joseph J. Solomon, imposes clear obligations on insurers. Before selling a policy, insurers must disclose whether coverage excludes preexisting conditions, hereditary disorders, congenital anomalies, or chronic conditions. They must also spell out any waiting periods, deductibles, coinsurance, and policy limits - no surprises after purchase.
Insurers can no longer impose waiting periods for accident coverage. Waiting periods for illnesses or orthopedic conditions are capped at 30 days, and consumers must have the option to waive these periods by submitting a veterinary exam. Importantly, insurers can’t earn premiums before coverage starts - no more charging upfront for policies that haven’t yet taken effect.
The law also targets wellness programs, banning their bundling with insurance sales. Any wellness program offered must be clearly marketed as not insurance, with separate terms and costs.
Brokers and agents won’t be exempt from new duties. Before selling pet insurance, producers must complete training on preexisting conditions, waiting periods, wellness programs, and coverage limits.
Violations of the law could lead to penalties under existing Rhode Island insurance statutes. And while the law applies only to Rhode Island policies, it could influence how other states approach pet insurance regulation - something insurers and brokers across the US should have on their radar.
