HR0659 103RD GENERAL ASSEMBLY

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HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Each year, Illinois faces destructive forces from strong winds, hailstorms, and flooding, all of which carry the potential to cause serious damage or, even worse, total destruction to private property and homes; and

WHEREAS, Following disasters, stressed and strained homeowners are vulnerable to well-rehearsed, predatory practices from dishonest contractors fraudulently adding costs to repair or rebuild homes; and

WHEREAS, These predatory practices by some contractors generally increase costs to rebuild for insurers and homeowners alike, ultimately driving up insurance premiums on consumers and forcing some insurers to reevaluate their exposure; and

WHEREAS, Insurance fraud adds five to 10 percent to claims expenses paid for by insurers and consumers; and

WHEREAS, It is imperative that an effective public outreach campaign highlight the various types of contractor fraud schemes and provide methods in how consumers can identify and avoid such schemes; and

WHEREAS, The National Insurance Crime Bureau encourages Illinoisans to get at least three written estimates, check contractor credentials, and work closely with insurers during the entire rebuilding process when hiring a contractor; and

WHEREAS, In collaboration with its local and state partners in Illinois, including law enforcement, first responders, legislators, and state officials, the National Insurance Crime Bureau is committed to educating Illinoisans about predatory practices by dishonest contractors; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we declare May 20-24, 2024 as Contractor Fraud Awareness Week in the State of Illinois and encourage all Illinoisans to become familiar with contractor fraud and participate in the various programs during the fourth annual event; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the National Insurance Crime Bureau as an expression of our respect and esteem.