Are insurance company underwriters allowed to discriminate?

Insurance company underwriters are not allowed to discriminate based on protected characteristics such as race, gender, religion, or disability, as mandated by laws like the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act. However, they can use risk assessment factors, such as driving history or health conditions, to determine premiums and coverage. While underwriting practices must be fair and non-discriminatory, they are permitted to differentiate based on legitimate risk factors.