Major insurance companies commit to staying in or returning to California after new reforms announced

Several major insurance companies have committed to staying in or resuming service in California, but it could mean high rates for consumers.

The companies include Mercury, CSAA, Pacific Specialty, Allstate and Farmers.

Newly announced insurance reforms allow companies to consider new factors when they set premiums, including the likelihood of a catastrophe and the cost they pay to insure themselves.

But advocates, including the group Consumer Watchdog, say the reforms make it easier for companies to increase premiums.

One company, California Casualty, has already filed for a 6.9% premium increase based on the new reforms.

The California Department of Insurance sent Eyewitness News the following statement about the insurance reforms:

"Under Commissioner Lara's proposed reforms, inter