Insurance agent ordered to stop engaging in insurance business

North Dakota Insurance Commissioner Adam Hamm today issued a cease and desist order against Patricia Howard, a Dunn Center insurance agent, who is alleged to have engaged in deceitful and dishonest practices against her insurance clients. The order bars Howard from engaging in the business of insurance.

Howard apparently accepted money and applications from at least two insurance clients, but failed to send the documents to the insurance company. The clients believed they had insurance coverage when in fact they did not. Howard is also alleged to have created a fake insurance binder document to make it appear as if the clients had coverage.

“This order is in place to stop her from working with North Dakota’s consumers to ensure no one else is harmed,” Hamm said. “As part of our investigation, we are looking for other consumers who may have purchased insurance from her. If you are worried about your coverage under a policy purchased through Ms. Howard, please contact the Insurance Department.”

Howard has a right to request an administrative hearing on the cease and desist order within 30 days of issuance.

Commissioner Hamm urges anyone who feels uneasy about any insurance-related transaction involving Howard to contact the Insurance Department at 1-800-247-0560 or insurance@nd.gov. If you made a premium payment to Howard and are concerned about the status of your insurance coverage, please contact the Department at the number above. However, if you make your premium payments directly to the insurance company, this likely does not affect you.

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