Our Mission:

The Office of Public Insurance Counsel (OPIC) represents the interests of Texas consumers in insurance matters. OPIC empowers and educates consumers and works on their behalf to create and maintain a balanced marketplace.

What We Do

The Texas Legislature established OPIC as an independent agency in 1991. OPIC represents the interests of Texas consumers in insurance matters.

Regulatory

OPIC reviews and analyzes insurance rates, rules, and policy forms. As a result of these reviews, OPIC may make comments, raise concerns, or file formal objections. The agency may also intervene as a party in rate hearings before the Commissioner of Insurance and the State Office of Administrative Hearings.

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Legislative

OPIC recommends legislation to the Texas Legislature that benefits insurance consumers. OPIC also provides resource testimony and information on insurance issues.

Consumer Education and Outreach

One of OPIC’s most important duties is consumer education and outreach. The agency annually develops a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) report card so consumers can evaluate HMOs’ quality of care and consumer satisfaction. OPIC produces consumer bills of rights to help Texans understand their rights under the law. Staff also assists consumers over the phone and by email.

OPIC creates informational postcards, brochures, and other materials for consumers. OPIC also educates consumers through its website and social media applications. The Policy Comparison Tool on the website helps consumers compare policies and coverage when shopping for insurance. Agents can send feedback about issues in the marketplace through the website’s Agent Portal.

Our Office

Barbara Jordan Building

1601 Congress Ave., Suite 3.500

Austin, Texas 78701

 

1-(877)-611-6742

help@opic.texas.gov