What is a "sunset provision" in insurance law?

A "sunset provision" in insurance law refers to a clause that establishes a specific end date for a law or regulation. This means that the regulation will automatically expire unless further action is taken to renew or extend it. Such provisions are often included in legislative measures to ensure that laws are periodically reviewed and evaluated for their effectiveness, efficiency, and relevance. This encourages lawmakers to assess whether the law still serves its intended purpose or needs to be amended or replaced.

Having a sunset provision can also prevent outdated regulations from remaining in force indefinitely, promoting a more dynamic and responsive regulatory environment. It creates a natural checkpoint that requires legislators to reconsider the necessity and impact of the regulation, fostering accountability and responsiveness to changing circumstances within the insurance market.