CHICAGO (ILLINOIS CAPITOL BUREAU) -- Governor JB Pritzker is calling on insurance companies to expedite claims and payments for business owners who have experienced damage due to riots and looting. Pritzker says it's unfortunate some individuals try to steal the peaceful voices of protesters by looting and burning businesses in many communities of color.
The governor stresses that pain is only amplified by the economic devastation created by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many small businesses were preparing to reopen or bring staff back to return to work. Now, Pritzker is calling for quick and robust support for the businesses.
"Insurers must do the right thing, and do it fast, with all consideration to assisting business owners to get back up on their feet and reopen as soon as possible," Pritzker said.
The Illinois Department of Insurance will closely watch for reports of insurance companies not upholding policies or standing in the way of businesses rebuilding. Pritzker says insurers should also implement a moratorium on cancellations or renewals of impacted policyholders for 60 days. The governor insists he won't hesitate to hold any "bad actors" accountable.
"They took everything from us"
Now, many business owners in metro areas have to replace most of the products from their stores. Felicia Goodwin co-owns a small business with her daughter on the southside of Chicago. Goodwin says she started the store to help her daughter further her passion for fashion. She says their hearts are broken seeing the damage and vandalism at the store.
"They broke windows, took all of our clothing, damaged racks, undressed and damaged our mannequins," Goodwin said. "We found our cash register in the street. They took everything from us."
Goodwin explains it is an extremely overwhelming experience for business owners. Her family has been running the shop for nine years and already faced constant financial struggles. She says they're still waiting to hear how much will be covered by the insurance claim with State Farm. Goodwin says many owners won't be able to open without new inventory and windows.
"We have worked so hard to build our communities. I cannot say enough on behalf of the small business owners to the insurance companies to please come out. Don't just ask us to make out a list. Come out and help us and assist us."
The Illinois Department of Insurance says most policies provide coverage for vandalism and looting. If individuals believe insurance companies aren't honoring the policy, Director Robert Muriel says they should submit a complaint on the .
