The controversial introduction of mandatory Wisconsin auto insurance has sparked debate in the state of Wisconsin, prompting many Democrats to defend the decision to introduce changes. According to media reports, Republican lawmakers and critics of the new changes have resorted to distributing leaflets and flyers to residents of the state in hopes of further igniting public protest against the insurance regulations.
Critics say that the Democrats in state legislature are to be blamed for the introduction of mandatory car insurance in Wisconsin. The state is one of only two states not requiring motorists to have proof of insurance. By November, however, only the state of New Hampshire will be left. State senate approved the new changes in May in response to what they say was the increasing threat uninsured drivers posed to car owners and motorists.
According to the flyers distributed by the Republican Party of Wisconsin, Rep. Clark is one of the main supporters of the controversial provision. Detractors point out that the lawmaker’s efforts to make auto insurance mandatory will eventually result in rate hikes as much as 30 percent. In his defense, Rep. Clark says that he is unaware why he is the only one being targeted when in fact, the provision does not require insurance premiums to increase at all.
The state legislature approved the proposal to increase minimum insurance coverage level in Wisconsin. Lawmakers also introduced another provision that would penalize motorists caught without proof of insurance. While erring car owners may only have to deal with a $10 fine, they can lose their license and registration with repeated offenses. Insurance experts also say that motorists can also expect to see their premiums climb significantly for the next few years if they are caught driving without insurance.
Rep. Clark believes that the changes are long overdue and argued that the state has relied on minimum levels that are two decades old. Insurance analysts agree with the legislator, saying that higher medical costs and repair expenses are likely to make thing a lot harder for car owners without proper insurance. By requiring all motorists to purchase more expensive policies, they can be better protected and insured.
Republicans and critics of the provision think otherwise. With mandatory car insurance comes more expensive premiums. They point out that with the economy still suffering from the financial meltdown, many car owners in Wisconsin can find it difficult to shell out 30 percent more for car insurance.
