Civil Rights Commission Issues Complaint Against American Family Insurance for Insurance Discrimination

The Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC) issued a formal complaint against American Family Insurance Company at its public meeting held recently in Columbus, Ohio. The complaint alleges, among other things, that American Family Insurance incorporated terms and conditions into its sales practices and insurance policies that have the purpose or effect of denying citizens access to homeowners insurance on the basis of race or the racial composition of the neighborhood where they live or own property.

Columbus, OH (PRWEB) January 15, 2006 -- The Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC) issued a formal complaint against American Family Insurance Company at its public meeting held January 12th in Columbus, Ohio. The complaint alleges, among other things, that American Family Insurance incorporated terms and conditions into its sales practices and insurance policies that have the purpose or effect of denying citizens access to homeowners insurance on the basis of race or the racial composition of the neighborhood where they live or own property.

“The Ohio Civil Rights Commission received several charges like this against American Family Insurance from Toledo residents,” said G. Michael Payton, Executive Director of the OCRC. “Discriminatory insurance practices is one of Ohio’s biggest challenges, and the Commission will continue to take all necessary action to eliminate discriminatory insurance practices in this state. Our state has more minority communities than ever, all pursuing the American dream of homeownership. Homeowners insurance is an essential part of achieving the American dream.”

A public hearing in this matter is scheduled for August 11, 2006 in Lucas County at the Commission’s Toledo regional office, One Government Center, Suite 936, Toledo, OH before OCRC Administrative Law Judge Denise M. Johnson.

The OCRC receives and investigates charges of discrimination in employment, housing, credit and higher education on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, country of national origin age, ancestry, disability and families with children.

Media Contact:
Christia Alou White
(614) 466-9063

###