HB 2379: DCCA; INSURANCE DIVISION; INSURANCE FRAUD INVESTIGATIONS BRANCH; INSURANCE COMMISSIONER; INSURANCE FRAUD; DECLARATIONS OF EMERGENCY; CENTRALIZED DATABASE; WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION; DATA SECURITY; CONTRACTORS; PENALTIES; REPORTS; APPROPRIATION

Increases the scope of insurance fraud and certain offenses.  Augments offenses by contractors and insurers during a declared emergency.  Clarifies the penalties for the offense of insurance fraud and the capabilities and operations of the Insurance Fraud Investigations Branch, including the annual report to the Legislature and the protection of sensitive information.  Adds protection for insurance fraud whistleblowers.  Authorizes the Insurance Commissioner to establish a centralized database for authorized agencies to track insurance fraud data.  Appropriates funds.