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Nauticus Robotics, Inc. Reports Second Quarter 2026 Results and Advances Commercialization Strategy

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Nauticus ToolKITT™ Commercial Release, Market Diversification and Defense Opportunities Expand Growth Pathways

HOUSTON, Aug. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Nauticus Robotics, Inc. (“Nauticus” or “Company”) (NASDAQ: KITT), a leading innovator in subsea robotics and software, today announced its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2026.

John Gibson, Nauticus President and CEO, stated, “During the second quarter, we continued adapting our business to current market conditions while making important progress toward a more diversified and technology-driven revenue model. We advanced opportunities across key sectors and successfully demonstrated our capabilities in customer operations.

The commercial release of Nauticus ToolKITT™ represents an important step in our strategy to build recurring technology revenue alongside our services business. As we move through the second half of the year, our focus remains on converting these capabilities into commercial opportunities while maintaining disciplined execution and financial flexibility.”

STRATEGIC AND OPERATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

Nauticus ToolKITT Commercialization

During the quarter, Nauticus successfully deployed a Comanche ROV integrated with Nauticus ToolKITT in customer operations. The system demonstrated improved operating efficiency and reduced pilot workload, providing additional field validation of the Company’s software-enabled approach to subsea operations.

Nauticus also released its Nauticus ToolKITT software for ROVs. The platform is now being marketed to underwater fleet operators across energy and defense markets.

Expanding Market Reach

While offshore oil and gas activity off the US Gulf Coast remained challenging, Nauticus continued diversifying its commercial pipeline.

The Company expanded its presence in offshore wind along the US East Coast, completed work with a major global subsea cable-laying company, and is pursuing additional opportunities on the US West Coast and Internationally.

Nauticus is also evolving its international commercial model to pursue opportunities where the Company can serve as the primary contractor and capture more of the economic benefit created by its autonomous technology.

Defense and Government Opportunities

Nauticus increased its near-term focus on defense and government markets during the quarter, where demand for autonomous systems, subsea awareness and infrastructure security aligns closely with the Company’s existing technology portfolio.

The Company completed an initial scope of work intended to support the evaluation of a broader multiphase defense opportunity. If awarded, the Company anticipates the potential for associated revenue in 2026 and 2027.

Nauticus is also participating in collaborative proposal efforts involving government, commercial, defense, and academic organizations evaluating autonomous approaches to persistent subsea sensing infrastructure.

Technical Development

The Company completed the prototype of its next-generation electric manipulator and began functional and load testing. Nauticus believes the system can provide a lower-cost manufacturing pathway while supporting future commercial and defense applications requiring autonomous subsea interaction.

Aquanaut® also completed the planned freshwater phase of autonomous mooring line and riser inspection workflows at the Company’s Florida test location. Further testing will require access to an appropriate intermediate offshore environment and will depend on customer budget cycles and site availability.

CUSTOMER DEMAND AND OUTLOOK

Nauticus is working to build a broader and more predictable revenue model by increasing pipeline coverage, expanding geographically, growing direct contracting opportunities, and adding software and technology revenue alongside its services business.

The Company is increasing sales activity across International and defense markets while pursuing opportunities designed to better capture the operational efficiencies generated by its autonomous technology.

Management expects Nauticus ToolKITT commercialization, international expansion, defense and government opportunities, and continued technology validation to provide additional pathways for future bookings and backlog growth.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

Revenue: Nauticus reported second-quarter revenue of $0.9 million, compared to $2.1 million for the prior-year period and $0.2 million for the prior quarter.

Operating Expenses: Total expenses during the second quarter were $6.9 million, a $1.6 million decrease from the prior-year period and a $1 million increase from Q1 2026. 

Adjusted Net Loss: Nauticus reported adjusted net loss of $7.0 million for the second quarter, compared to an adjusted net loss of $7.46 million for the same period in 2025 and an adjusted net loss of $6.4 million for Q1 2026. Adjusted net loss is a non-GAAP measure which excludes the impact of certain items, as shown in the non-GAAP reconciliation table below.

Net Loss: For the second quarter, Nauticus recorded a net loss of $11.1 million, or basic loss per share of $2.30. This compares with a net loss of $7.4 million from the same period in 2025, and a net loss of $9.3 million in the prior quarter.

G&A Cost: Nauticus reported G&A second-quarter costs of $3.3 million, which is a decrease of $1.1 million compared to the same period in 2025 and a $0.1 million increase from the first quarter in 2026.

Balance Sheet and Liquidity

As of June 30, 2026, the Company had cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash of $2.0 million, compared to $7.6 million as of December 31, 2025.

CONFERENCE CALL DETAILS

Nauticus will host a conference call on August 13, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. Central Time to discuss its results for the quarter ended June 30, 2026. To participate in the earnings conference call, participants should dial toll free at +1-833-461-5787, conference ID: 989 652 904, or access the listen-only webcast at the following link: https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/989652904. A link to the webcast will also be available on the Company’s IR website (https://ir.nauticusrobotics.com/). Following the conclusion of the call, a recording will be available on the Company’s website.

About Nauticus Robotics, Inc.

Nauticus Robotics, Inc. develops autonomous robots for the ocean industries. Autonomy requires the extensive use of sensors, artificial intelligence, and effective algorithms for perception and decision-making allowing the robot to adapt to changing environments. The company’s business model includes using robotic systems for service, selling vehicles and components, and licensing of related software to both the commercial and defense business sectors. Nauticus has designed and is currently testing and certifying a new generation of vehicles to reduce operational cost and gather data to maintain and operate a wide variety of subsea infrastructure. Besides a standalone service offering and forward-facing products, Nauticus’ approach to ocean robotics has also resulted in the development of a range of technology products for retrofit/upgrading traditional ROV operations and other third-party vehicle platforms. Nauticus’ services provide customers with the necessary data collection, analytics, and subsea manipulation capabilities to support and maintain assets while reducing their operational footprint, operating cost, and greenhouse gas emissions, to improve offshore health, safety, and environmental exposure. www.nauticusrobotics.com

Cautionary Language Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Act”), and such statements are intended to enjoy the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements provided by the Act as well as protections afforded by other federal securities laws. Such forward-looking statements include but are not limited to: the expected timing of product commercialization or new product releases; customer interest in Nauticus’ products; estimated operating results and use of cash; and Nauticus’ use of and needs for capital. Generally, statements that are not historical facts, including statements concerning possible or assumed future actions, business strategies, events, or results of operations, are forward-looking statements. These statements may be preceded by, followed by, or include the words “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “projects,” “forecasts,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “seeks,” “plans,” “scheduled,” “anticipates,” “intends,” or “continue” or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements inherently involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual events, results, or performance to differ materially from those indicated by such statements. These forward-looking statements are based on Nauticus’ management’s current expectations and beliefs, as well as a number of assumptions concerning future events. There can be no assurance that the events, results, or trends identified in these forward-looking statements will occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and Nauticus is not under any obligation and expressly disclaims any obligation, to update, alter, or otherwise revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law. Readers should carefully review the statements set forth in the reports which Nauticus has filed or will file from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) for a more complete discussion of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and that could cause actual outcomes to be materially different from those indicated in the forward-looking statements made by the Company, in particular the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” in documents filed from time to time with the SEC, including Nauticus’ most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC from time to time. Should one or more of these risks, uncertainties, or other factors materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking information or statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated, or expected. The documents filed by Nauticus with the SEC may be obtained free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov

NAUTICUS ROBOTICS, INC.

 UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

June 30,
2026 (Unaudited)

December 31,
2025

(Unaudited)

Assets

Current Assets:

Cash and cash equivalents

$1,372,758

$7,016,610

Restricted cash

604,291

600,342

Accounts receivable, net

841,071

378,683

Prepaid expenses

1,059,171

1,055,324

Other current assets

188,739

203,025

Total Current Assets

4,066,030

9,253,984

Property and equipment, net

20,600,075

21,827,769

Operating lease right-of-use assets, net

373,183

559,005

Other assets

110,360

91,276

Goodwill

9,600,745

9,600,745

Intangible assets, net

1,179,116

1,276,916

Total Assets

$35,929,509

$42,609,695

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity

Current Liabilities:

Accounts payable

$1,853,702

$3,128,459

Accrued liabilities

6,411,373

9,807,668

Operating lease liabilities – current

418,606

434,200

Notes payable – current

2,540,250

2,628,234

November 2024 Debentures – current, fair value option (related
party)

2,729,000

163,672

Senior Secured Convertible Term Loan – current, net of discount 
(related party)

14,988,777

14,113,871

Senior Secured Convertible Term Loan – current, net of discount 

1,351,260

4,939,247

Other liabilities

192,473

160,110

Total Current Liabilities

30,485,441

35,375,461

Warrant liabilities

1,938

11,281

Operating lease liabilities – long-term

9,364

203,547

Derivative liability

251,000

–

Total Liabilities

$30,747,743

$35,590,289

Stockholders’ Equity:

Preferred Stock – Series A

$1

$1

Preferred Stock – Series B

–

–

Preferred Stock – Series C

–

–

Common stock*

688

360

Additional paid-in capital

349,531,016

330,581,384

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

(42,229)

(42,229)

Accumulated deficit

(344,307,710)

(323,520,110)

Total Stockholders’ Equity

5,181,766

7,019,406

Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity

$35,929,509

$42,609,695

*Reflects the 1-for-8 effected April 21, 2026.

 

NAUTICUS ROBOTICS, INC.

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

Three Months Ended

Six Months Ended

6/30/2026

3/31/2026

6/30/2025

6/30/2026

6/30/2025

Revenue:

Service

$885,947

$159,575

$2,075,566

$1,045,521

$2,240,822

Total revenue

885,947

159,575

2,075,566

1,045,521

2,240,822

Costs and expenses:

Cost of revenue
(exclusive of items
shown separately below)

2,867,556

1,993,894

3,504,043

4,861,449

4,743,000

Depreciation and
amortization

702,418

624,791

574,563

1,327,210

1,054,939

General and
administrative

3,324,365

3,224,907

4,418,187

6,549,272

8,777,873

Total costs and expenses

6,894,339

5,843,592

8,496,793

12,737,931

14,575,812

Operating loss

(6,008,392)

(5,684,017)

(6,421,227)

(11,692,410)

(12,334,990)

Other (income) expense,
net:

Other (income) expense,
net

10,142

(3,145)

2,461

6,994

(134,936)

Foreign currency
transaction loss

6,514

970

274

7,484

3,541

Loss on extinguishment
of debt

4,629,822

929,508

–

5,559,330

–

Change in fair value of
derivative

(264,827)

515,827

–

251,000

–

Change in fair value of
warrant liabilities

(6,325)

(3,019)

8,757

(9,344)

(42,131)

Change in fair value of
November 2024
Debentures

(94,728)

1,188,840

(187,866)

1,094,112

536,060

Interest expense, net

826,982

953,083

1,209,323

1,780,066

2,323,839

Total other expense, net

5,107,580

3,582,064

1,032,949

8,689,642

2,686,373

Net loss

$(11,115,972)

$(9,266,081)

$(7,454,176)

$(20,382,052)

$(15,021,363)

Basic and diluted loss per
share*

(2.30)

(2.46)

(18.50)

(4.51)

(38.31)

Basic and diluted
weighted average shares
outstanding*

5,367,986

3,840,563

402,876

4,608,495

392,105

* Reflects the 1-for-9 reverse split effected September 5, 2025 and the 1-for-8 effected April 21, 2026.

 

NAUTICUS ROBOTICS, INC.

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

Six months ended June 30,

2026

2025

Cash flows from operating activities:

Net loss

$(20,382,052)

$(15,021,363)

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:

Depreciation and amortization

1,327,210

1,054,939

Accretion of debt discount

24,329

19,920

Amortization of debt issuance cost

244,023

350,303

Capitalized paid-in-kind (PIK) interest

365,288

338,782

Accretion of exit fee, net of amount settled on conversion

(59,824)

48,624

Stock-based compensation

541,413

570,015

Change in fair value of warrant liabilities

(9,344)

(42,131)

Change in fair value of November 2024 Debentures

1,094,112

536,060

Loss on extinguishment of debt

5,559,330

–

Change in fair value of derivative

251,000

–

Non-cash lease expense

185,822

205,688

Loss on disposal of assets

8,057

–

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

Accounts receivable

(462,388)

(1,906,246)

Inventories

–

42,553

Other assets

(8,647)

2,207

Accounts payable, accrued and other liabilities

(2,593,881)

20,083

Contract liabilities

–

(2,786)

Operating lease liabilities

(209,777)

(222,228)

Net cash used in operating activities

(14,125,329)

(14,005,580)

Cash flows from investing activities:

Capital expenditures

(14,287)

(47,239)

Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired

–

(3,871,992)

Proceeds from sale of property and equipment

4,515

(500)

Net cash used in investing activities

(9,772)

(3,919,731)

Cash flows from financing activities:

Proceeds from At the Market (ATM) offering, net

4,063,929

19,438,121

Proceeds from November 2024 Debentures

4,485,000

–

Repayment on AmeriState Loan

(53,731)

(34,581)

Net cash provided by financing activities

8,495,198

19,403,540

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

(5,639,903)

1,478,229

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period

7,616,952

1,238,198

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period

$1,977,049

$2,716,427

 NAUTICUS ROBOTICS, INC.
UNAUDITED RECONCILIATION OF NET LOSS ATTRIBUTABLE TO COMMON STOCKHOLDERS (GAAP) TO ADJUSTED NET LOSS ATTRIBUTABLE TO COMMON STOCKHOLDERS (NON-GAAP)

Adjusted net loss attributable to common stockholders is a non-GAAP financial measure which excludes certain items that are included in net loss attributable to common stockholders, the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure. Items excluded are those which the Company believes affect the comparability of operating results and are typically excluded from published estimates by the investment community, including items whose timing and/or amount cannot be reasonably estimated or are non-recurring.

Adjusted net loss attributable to common stockholders is presented because management believes it provides useful additional information to investors for analysis of the Company’s fundamental business on a recurring basis. In addition, management believes that adjusted net loss attributable to common stockholders is widely used by professional research analysts and others in the valuation, comparison, and investment recommendations of companies such as Nauticus.

Adjusted net loss attributable to common stockholders should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for net loss attributable to common stockholders or any other measure of a company’s financial performance or profitability presented in accordance with GAAP. A reconciliation of the differences between net loss attributable to common stockholders and adjusted net loss attributable to common stockholders is presented below. Because adjusted net loss attributable to common stockholders excludes some, but not all, items that affect net loss attributable to common stockholders and may vary among companies, our calculation of adjusted net loss attributable to common stockholders may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies.

Three Months Ended

Six Months Ended

6/30/2026

3/31/2026

6/30/2025

6/30/2026

6/30/2025

Net loss attributable to
common stockholders
(GAAP)

$(11,330,270)

$(9,457,331)

$(7,454,176)

$(20,787,600)

$(15,021,363)

Loss on extinguishment
of debt

4,629,822

929,508

–

5,559,330

–

Change in fair value of
derivative

(264,827)

515,827

–

251,000

–

Change in fair value of
warrant liabilities

(6,325)

(3,019)

8,757

(9,344)

(42,131)

Change in fair value of
November 2024
Debentures

(94,728)

1,188,840

(187,866)

1,094,112

536,060

Preferred stock dividend

(214,298)

191,250

–

(405,548)

–

Deemed dividends for
Series A, B and C
Convertible Preferred
Stock

–

–

–

–

–

Stock compensation
expense

315,861

225,552

257,336

541,413

570,015

Adjusted net loss
attributable to common
stockholders (non-GAAP)

$(6,964,766)

(6,409,373)

$(7,375,949)

$(13,756,638)

(13,957,419)

 

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SOURCE Nauticus Robotics, Inc.

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Veterans Guardian Receives 2026 Gold HIRE Vets Medallion Award

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PINEHURST, N.C., Nov. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Veterans Guardian VA Claim Consulting is honored to announce that the U.S. Department of Labor has awarded us the 2026 Gold HIRE Vets Medallion Award. This distinction celebrates our demonstration of patriotism, and our recognition of the immense value veterans bring to the workplace. The HIRE Vets Medallion Award is the only federal award that honors organizations for their outstanding commitment to recruiting, employing, and supporting America’s veterans.

Veterans Guardian has proudly earned the HIRE Vets Medallion Award every year since 2019. The Gold HIRE Vets Medallion is awarded to companies that not only hire veterans but also actively support a workplace that honors their service, supports their career development, and appreciates the strength and leadership veterans offer. We remain committed to creating an inclusive, empowering environment where veterans’ patriotism, experience, and contributions are acknowledged and honored.

“Receiving the 2026 Gold HIRE Vets Medallion Award is a tremendous honor and a reflection of our firm commitment to those who have served our nation,” said Scott Greenblatt, LTC (RET), US Army, CEO and Founder of Veterans Guardian VA Claim Consulting. “Our veterans have dedicated themselves to protecting our freedoms, and we believe that dedication deserves to be met with meaningful opportunities, continued support, and a workplace where their service and sacrifices are truly valued. Since 2019, we’ve remained committed to empowering veterans as they transition into civilian careers, recognizing the extraordinary leadership, resilience, and experience they bring to our organization. Supporting veterans isn’t simply part of what we do—it’s the foundation of who we are and the mission that guides us forward every day.”

Veterans Guardian’s dedication to veterans goes beyond employment. Through its mission of helping veterans navigate the VA disability claims process and pursue the benefits they have earned, the company continues advocating for those who have served. This acknowledgment reflects Veterans Guardian’s commitment to creating meaningful career opportunities while fostering a workplace where veterans can thrive, contribute, and build successful futures beyond military service.

“Our veterans possess a unique strength, resilience, and skill set that greatly improves our workforce,” Greenblatt added. “Our mission and values drive our commitment to hiring and supporting veterans, and it’s gratifying to recognize the positive impact we’ve made on their lives, as well as the impact they continue to make within our organization.”

The HIRE Vets Medallion Award recognizes organizations nationwide that show outstanding commitment to veteran employment and professional development. Veterans Guardian VA Claim Consulting is deeply honored to be named a 2026 Gold Medallion recipient, reaffirming our ongoing pledge to honor, support, and encourage those who have bravely served our nation.

About Veterans Guardian VA Claim Consulting
Veterans Guardian VA Claim Consulting is a leader in assisting veterans with VA claims, providing expertise and dedicated support to help veterans secure the benefits they deserve. Founded by Scott Greenblatt, Veterans Guardian is deeply committed to supporting the veteran community through advocacy, employment, and outreach. Learn more about Veterans Guardian at vetsguardian.com.

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SOURCE Veterans Guardian

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HitPaw Black Friday 2026: Save Up to 60% on AI Creative Tools

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NEW YORK, Nov 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — HitPaw, an AI-powered multimedia platform specializing in video, image, and audio enhancement, generation, and editing solutions, today announced its 2026 Black Friday Mega Deal. Running from November 10 to December 7, the campaign offers savings of up to 60% OFF on a wide range of AI-powered creative tools, giving creators, businesses, and everyday users an opportunity to upgrade their creative workflows at exceptional prices.

Explore HitPaw’s AI Creative Tools

HitPaw offers specialized AI solutions for multimedia enhancement, generation, and editing, covering a wide range of creative needs:

HitPaw VikPea (AI Video Enhancer): Upscale videos to 4K, restores damaged footage, and enhances clarity, details, and colors by reducing blur and noise.HitPaw FotorPea (AI Photo Enhancer & Generator): Enhance image quality, restore old photographs, sharpen portraits, remove unwanted objects, and create AI-generated artwork.HitPaw Edimakor (AI Video Generator & Editor): Combines AI video generation with video editing capabilities, helping users create and edit engaging videos more efficiently.HitPaw VoicePea (AI Voice Changer): Transform voices in real time with realistic AI voice effects for streaming, gaming, content creation, and online communication.HitPaw Univd (AI Video Converter & Compressor): Convert and compress videos without sacrificing quality for seamless sharing across devices and platforms.HitPaw Watermark Remover (AI Watermark & Object Remover): Remove unwanted watermarks, objects, and distractions from photos and videos with ease.

From restoring cherished memories and producing social media content to creating product visuals and promotional videos for e-commerce, HitPaw’s tools support a variety of creative needs.

Unlock Exclusive Black Friday Discounts

During the Black Friday Mega Deal, customers can enjoy special discounts across HitPaw’s product lineup:

60% OFF 5-in-1 Ultimate Bundle: Get VikPea, FotorPea, Edimakor, Univd, and Watermark Remover in one package. Ideal for creators seeking an all-in-one toolkit for AI creation, video and image enhancement, editing, and file management.50% OFF 2-in-1 Bundles: Choose from two combinations: VikPea + FotorPea or VikPea + Edimakor. The first pairs video and photo enhancement, while the second offers a one-stop workflow for AI video creation and enhancement.40% OFF Individual Products: Save 40% OFF on HitPaw VikPea and HitPaw FotorPea, ideal for users focused on improving video and image quality.30% OFF Individual Products: Get 30% OFF on HitPaw Edimakor, HitPaw VoicePea, HitPaw Univd, and HitPaw Watermark Remover, catering to video creators and users looking for flexible editing and media utilities.20% OFF HitPaw Online AI Credits: Save on AI credits for browser-based tools, including video enhancement, AI image generation, photo restoration and more. A convenient option for users who prefer online creative tools without installing software.

How to Get HitPaw Black Friday Deals

HitPaw’s 2026 Black Friday Mega Deal runs from November 10 through December 7, 2026. Customers can visit the official campaign page to explore participating products, compare available plans, and claim discounts of up to 60% OFF.

For more information checking, you may visit: HitPaw Black Friday 2026: Save Up to 60% OFF, Best Deals

ABOUT HITPAW

HitPaw is a leading AI-powered multimedia platform offering video, image, and audio generation, enhancement, and editing tools. It helps millions of creators worldwide easily produce high-quality content, from transforming media to creating new visual and audio works. Learn more at: [OFFICIAL] HitPaw – AI Video, Photo & Audio Enhancer Solutions

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SOURCE HitPaw. Co., Ltd

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California Supreme Court to Decide Whether Insurers Can Hide Illegal Overcharges Behind Approved Rates, Says Consumer Watchdog

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Ruling Will Impact Millions of State Consumers

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The California Supreme Court will decide whether consumers can sue insurance companies for overcharges that are illegal under Proposition 103, the insurance reform enacted by the voters 38 years ago.

The case before the court concerns a class action lawsuit brought by enlisted policyholders who are good drivers. They allege that USAA, a military insurer, charged them a higher price for auto insurance than it charged officers. Proposition 103 mandates a 20% Good Driver Discount for qualified drivers and state law requires an insurance company to offer good drivers the lowest rate available, regardless of military rank.

Proposition 103 authorizes consumers to challenge violations like that in court. However, some courts have ruled that those lawsuits cannot be brought if the insurance company can argue that the Insurance Commissioner approved the rates being charged.

About 200,000 enlisted USAA customers were overcharged. However, the Supreme Court’s decision will ultimately affect millions of Californians who buy insurance for their autos, homes and businesses.

Ninth Circuit Asks California Supreme Court to Address Pocketbook Issues

The case began in federal court in San Diego, the home of many people in military service. The United States District Court for the Southern District of California ruled that after the passage of Proposition 103, the California legislature passed a bill exempting companies that only insured military personnel from the application of Proposition 103’s protections for good drivers. The plaintiffs appealed to the Ninth Circuit, pointing out that under California’s Constitution the Legislature cannot undermine laws passed by the voters through a ballot initiative.

Before the 9th Circuit, USAA made a second argument, which had been rejected by the District Court: that other state insurance laws shield insurance companies from consumer lawsuits seeking refunds, notwithstanding Proposition 103. Plaintiffs noted that Proposition 103 specifically authorizes lawsuits under the state’s consumer protection laws.

Noting that California courts have adopted conflicting interpretations of Proposition 103, the Ninth Circuit of the United States Court of Appeal then asked California’s Supreme Court to decide these issues of state law.

Representing the enlisted military in the litigation are Consumer Watchdog, the California based non-profit that defends and enforces Proposition 103; Mehri & Skalet, a Washington, D.C.-based law firm specializing in class actions and complex litigation; Mason & Perry LLP, a class action and complex litigation firm also based in D.C., Matthew Seligman, of Grayhawk Law, [more], is leading the plaintiffs’ team before the Supreme Court.

The case is Coleman v. United Services Automobile Association, No. S298496. Review the complaint in the lawsuit. The Ninth Circuit’s certification to the California Supreme Court is available here. (Coleman v. United Services Automobile Ass’n, No. 25-793, slip op. at 3–15 (9th Cir. Sept. 10, 2026)).

Consumer Watchdog is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that advocates for taxpayer and consumer interests, with a particular focus on insurance, health care, privacy, energy, and corporate accountability. Consumer Watchdog represents consumers in proceedings enforcing Proposition 103’s protections.

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SOURCE Consumer Watchdog

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