A. An insurer that fails to comply with a claim brought pursuant to this article by denying the claim on the grounds that the claim is not timely or by asserting a statute of limitations defense violates this article.

B. If the director considers it necessary, the director may initiate an examination under section 20-156.

C. If the director believes that an insurer has violated or is violating this article the director may:

1. Issue a cease and desist order.

2. Assess a civil penalty of not more than one thousand dollars for each act or violation but not to exceed an aggregate civil penalty of ten thousand dollars.

3. Refer the matter to the attorney general for appropriate enforcement.