New Legislation Shields Pets With Preexisting Conditions From Losing Insurance

OLYMPIA — Pet owners across Washington could soon have stronger protections for their furry companions, thanks to legislation passed unanimously Tuesday by the Washington State House of Representatives.

House Bill 1078, sponsored by Rep. Amy Walen (D-Kirkland), aims to prevent pet insurance companies from canceling or refusing to renew policies based on a pet’s age, the development of a health condition, or the detection of a preexisting issue. The bill also protects policyholders from disruptions when their insurance is transferred between affiliated companies.

“Our companion animals require significant investment and are essential to the quality of our lives, especially our most vulnerable community members who rely on companion animals for emotional or physical support,” Walen said. “Every heartbeat in our homes matters, and we should do what we can to ensure and protect their health for the duration of their lives.”

Under the legislation, insurance providers would be required to honor existing pet insurance policies through their expiration dates, even when a customer is moved to a different company under the same ownership. The receiving insurer would also be barred from imposing new waiting periods or requiring a veterinary exam as a condition of continuing coverage.

The bill builds on a 2023 law that established foundational standards for pet insurance in Washington, including requirements for consumer disclosures, waiting periods, and licensing of insurance producers. Walen said HB 1078 is a natural extension of that effort, designed to close loopholes and bring consistency to the pet insurance market.

While pet insurance is regulated as a type of property and casualty insurance—because pets are legally classified as property—it functions similarly to health insurance for people. Policies typically reimburse pet owners for costs associated with accidents, emergencies, and chronic illnesses, but often exclude preventive care unless bundled with a wellness plan.

Consumer advocates have raised concerns about coverage gaps and arbitrary denials of claims, particularly when pets age or develop long-term health issues. Without regulatory protections, insurers have had wide latitude to drop coverage, raise rates, or require requalification through exams and waiting periods.

HB 1078 directly addresses those concerns by prohibiting insurers from refusing to cover pets due to chronic or hereditary conditions, such as hip dysplasia, heart disease, or epilepsy, as well as conditions that emerged during the life of the policy.

“This bill helps ensure that people aren’t blindsided by losing coverage for a beloved animal just because they’re aging or sick,” Walen said.

The measure passed the House in a 95–0 vote and now moves to the Senate, where supporters hope it will maintain its momentum. If approved and signed into law, the bill would take effect 90 days after the end of the current legislative session.