State RegulationsCA specific✓ Verified · outline & fact-checked · Sep 2026Difficulty 2/5
A California life insurance applicant tests positive for HIV. Under California Insurance Code Section 799, the insurer:
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Answer & full 3-part explanation (select an option above, or peek)
Why A is correct
Section 799 prohibits insurers from using HIV status alone to deny coverage, limit benefits, or charge different rates. California law treats HIV like other medical conditions for underwriting: the insurer may consider it along with other factors, but it cannot be the sole basis for adverse action. Genetic characteristics are similarly protected under Sections 10146 and 10147(b).
Why the other options are wrong
- B) Automatic denial based solely on HIV status violates Section 799.
- C) There is no age-based exception permitting HIV discrimination.
- D) Insurers are not required to report HIV status to public health authorities under this provision.
Memory hook
HIV status alone = a forbidden door to slam. California underwriting may weigh it, but it cannot be the sole reason for no.