Safeco Insurance Company of America has received approval to revise its pet insurance product in Vermont, with an effective date of August 7, 2025. The approval followed a detailed regulatory review process aimed at aligning the product with Vermont HB 659 and other consumer protection laws.

Initially submitted in April 2025, the filing faced several objections, including concerns about exclusions, fee transparency, pre-existing condition definitions, and claim handling practices. Safeco responded with new forms, updated endorsements, and clearer policy language to meet the Department of Financial Regulation’s standards. Key forms included state-specific disclosures and updated endorsements for wellness, alternative medicine, and hereditary conditions.

Among the most significant updates, Safeco confirmed that vet exam and medical waste fees are now covered, and pre-existing conditions are defined in line with Vermont law. The company is prohibited from automatically reissuing policies when customers reduce coverage. It also clarified that it does not deduct unpaid premiums from claims or suspend coverage for non-payment. Additionally, exclusions related to pregnancy must allow for exceptions if sterilization poses life-threatening risks.