Manitoba Public Insurance applies for largest rate decrease in 30 years

Manitoba Public Insurance filed its General Rate Application with the Public Utilities Board (PUB) today, requesting an overall rate decrease of 10.5 per cent. If approved, this will be the largest rate decrease in three decades.

The average passenger vehicle owner will pay about $130 less in premiums per year. This will be the second year in a row Manitobans have received a rate decrease from its public auto insurer.

“This historic rate decrease reflects the strong recent performance and financial position of our Corporation,” said Ben Graham, President and CEO, Manitoba Public Insurance. “While many private auto insurers across Canada are asking for double-digit rate increases, Manitobans are receiving the benefits of a well-executed public auto insurance model.

“This decrease was made possible with our multi-pronged strategy focusing on insurance fundamentals such as fiscal prudence of managing claims and MPI expenses, changes made to our product suite, implementation of a better reinsurance strategy aimed at reducing volatility, enhanced investment management strategy and building an industry acceptable level of reserves to absorb rate shocks.”

In May 2020, MPI customers benefited from a $110 million rebate: $58 million of which is directly attributed to fewer claims during this COVID period and $52 million was through prudent company management from year-end financial results.

This year, MPI is modernizing its products to provide greater customer choice and protection through new coverage levels for Third Party Liability, Maximum Insured Value, and changes to the Basic Autopac deductible. Customers will have the option of reducing their premium by increasing their deductible.

“Our customers will have greater choice in selecting the coverage that best suits their needs,” said Graham. “These are all things that really demonstrate the strength, adaptability and customer-centric nature of public auto insurance in Manitoba.

“MPI will continue to execute its strategy aimed at maintaining stable and predictable rates which remain among the most affordable in Canada while providing exceptional coverage to Manitobans.”

The PUB hearings typically begin in October, concluding later in the month. The board typically issues its order in December.

The proposed rates would be effective April 1, 2021, but because renewal dates are staggered, some vehicle owners won’t pay their new rates until March 31, 2022.

Requested Rate Changes by Class

(Manitoba Public Insurance News Release)