Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner Jessica Altman reminds businesses of
the importance of complying with Gov. Tom Wolf and Department of Health
Secretary Rachel Levine’s orders – for counties in both the red and
yellow phases.
In addition to the critical public health objectives, Commissioner
Altman warned non-compliant businesses defying the governor and
secretary’s business closure orders that many insurance policies contain
provisions that exclude coverage for businesses or individuals engaging
in illegal acts or conduct. These exclusions may apply to property
coverage, liability coverage, advertising injury coverage, and a host of
other essential coverages.
“Businesses and residents rely on insurance coverage to protect them
from liability, pay for covered losses, and compensate those who may be
injured or harmed,” said Altman. “It is the duty of every business and
resident in Pennsylvania to ensure that they and the public at large are
provided with the maximum level of protection afforded by insurance.
Any actions that could potentially create coverage gaps are the
antitheses of the civil duty required of all residents during these
times of emergency.”
This reminder is offered to all Pennsylvania businesses and residents,
regardless of in what county they reside. The department strongly
encourages businesses or residents who have questions or concerns
regarding insurance coverage during the phased reopening of businesses
in this commonwealth to reach out to their insurance carrier to discuss
concerns.
FAQs for businesses in each phase can be found at
https://www.scribd.com/document/452553495/UPDATED-5-30-PM-May-8-2020-Life-Sustaining-Business-FAQs
