A bill allowing insurance companies to recoup the costs of investigating phony insurance claims passed the Senate today.

Senate Bill 5893 was sponsored by Sen. Jean Berkey, D-Everett. The bill allows insurance companies to recover compensatory damages and reasonable investigation and litigation expenses, including legal fees.

The legislation passed the Senate with a vote of 47 to 0 and now goes to the House for consideration.

For interviews: Sen. Jean Berkey, 360-786-7674