Plaisance Underwriters is integrating artificial intelligence into its new Sexual Abuse and Molestation (SAM) coverage program, using an AI platform called Understudy to perform vendor background checks and help institutions prevent third-party liability incidents.
The managing general underwriter (MGU), part of the MISSION portfolio, launched the specialized coverage to provide protection for large institutions and their third-party vendors. Backed by certain underwriters at Lloyd’s with A+ rated paper, the policy is available in all 50 states and offers limits from $250,000 to $1 million per vendor.
Plaisance’s program enters the market as coverage availability continues to narrow. According to Amwins’ State of the Market 2025 Outlook: Sexual Abuse and Molestation, insurers have been reducing or excluding SAM coverage from general liability policies, often leaving buyers to purchase standalone coverage that can cost significantly more - around $5,000 compared to less than $500 when part of a package policy. The report adds that only a few insurers now offer monoline SAM coverage, typically with low limits and limited excess capacity.
The increased demand follows heightened public attention on sexual misconduct and new laws extending statutes of limitations for claims. Amwins also noted that underwriters now require stronger risk management practices, including background checks and training protocols, as part of the underwriting process.
Plaisance’s use of Understudy aligns with these expectations, offering institutions a preventive approach by using AI to vet vendors and monitor exposure data. The platform assists in performing background checks and evaluating personnel as part of an institution’s ongoing risk management.
Caroline Murray (pictured), founder and CEO of Plaisance Underwriters, said institutions that allow third-party vendors on-site face exposure to SAM claims, but smaller vendors often find standalone SAM insurance unaffordable.
“Institutions require third-party vendors to have this coverage, but the standalone SAM policies are typically too expensive for small vendors,” said Murray. “We look forward to working with carriers, brokers and institutions to help fill these market gaps and provide the risk management needed to mitigate these serious risks.”
Plaisance Underwriters operates as a MISSION-backed managing general underwriter providing liability insurance for institutions seeking coverage for sexual assault and molestation risks involving internal and external actors.
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