CHICAGO, May 13, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Fitch Ratings is assessing possible rating implications on U.S. insurance companies that could ultimately result from the passage of Optional Federal Charter regulation on U.S. Insurers now that the government is beginning the debate again in Washington.

As discussed in detail in a new report released today, Fitch outlines the various legislative bills introduced over the last two years as well as the Department of Treasury's recommendation for an OFC as outlined in its March 2008 report, 'Blueprint for a Modernized Financial Regulatory Structure.'

The Fitch report discusses the major parties on both sides of the debate and their views regarding the effects of increased federal regulation on the insurance industry. While neutral as to the ultimate passage of OFC regulation, Fitch highlights possible ratings implications that could result from the passage of OFC regulation.

The Special Report, 'Optional Federal Charter: Will Treasury Support Promote Passage', is available on the Fitch Ratings web site at www.fitchratings.com under the following headers: Financial Institutions then Insurance then Special Reports.

Fitch's rating definitions and the terms of use of such ratings are available on the agency's public site, www.fitchratings.com. Published ratings, criteria and methodologies are available from this site, at all times. Fitch's code of conduct, confidentiality, conflicts of interest, affiliate firewall, compliance and other relevant policies and procedures are also available from the 'Code of Conduct' section of this site.

SOURCE: Fitch Ratings

CONTACT: Fitch Ratings Tana M. Higman, +1-312-368-3122 (Chicago) James B. Auden, +1-312-368-3146 (Chicago) Cynthia J. Crosson, +1-212-908-0863 (New York) Kenneth Reed, +1-212-908-0540 (Media Relations, New York)