Committee approves title‑insurance transparency bill after amendment, sends measure to Calendar & Rules

Chairman Farmer presented House Bill 5‑69 as a consumer‑protection measure requiring title companies to disclose when premiums are shared and to make liability clear for consumers. "You absolutely have the right to choose your own title company," Chairman Farmer told the committee while describing negotiation of the amendment.

Sponsor described concerns raised in subcommittee and said the amendment restructured the bill to remove a prior requirement that companies acknowledge shared liability; the amended language clarifies that only the issuing title company can accept liability for a policy. Representative Henry asked whether a buyer can still choose their own title attorney; the sponsor confirmed choice remains with the consumer.

Members said the amendment alleviated underwriters' concerns. The clerk recorded 19 ayes, 0 nays and 2 present (all voting), and the committee advanced the bill to Calendar and Rules.