33-23-212. Notice required for cancellation -- statement that insurer will specify reason upon request -- exception -- penalty. (1) Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, a cancellation by an insurer of a motor vehicle liability insurance policy may not be effective prior to the mailing or delivery to the named insured, at the address shown in the policy, of a written notice of the cancellation stating the date on which, not less than 30 days after the date of such mailing or delivery, the cancellation becomes effective.
     (2) A notice of cancellation of a policy to which 33-23-211 applies may not be effective unless mailed or delivered by the insurer to the named insured at least 30 days prior to the effective date of cancellation; provided, however, that where cancellation is for nonpayment of premium, at least 10 days' notice of cancellation accompanied by the reason must be given. Unless the reason accompanies or is included in the notice of cancellation, the notice of cancellation must state or be accompanied by a statement that upon written request of the named insured, mailed or delivered to the insurer not less than 21 days prior to the effective date of cancellation, the insurer shall specify the reason for the cancellation.
     (3) Subsection (2) does not apply to nonrenewal.
     (4) Any insurer willfully violating any provisions of subsection (2) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and is punishable by a fine not exceeding $500 for each violation thereof.

     History: En. Secs. 1, 4, 7, Ch. 262, L. 1971; R.C.M. 1947, 40-4405, 40-4408, 40-4411; amd. Sec. 11, Ch. 139, L. 1987; amd. Sec. 41, Ch. 83, L. 1989; amd. Sec. 53, Ch. 472, L. 1999.