OLYMPIA --- A coalition of insurance companies, calling itself Consumers Against Higher Insurance Rates, has turned in a petition to place a new regulatory insurance law before voters. The referendum effort hopes that voters will vote down the referendum and thus reject a new state law that allows courts to approve triple damages if an insurance company unreasonably denies payment or coverage. This law, which exempts health care, makes it easier for people to sue an insurer that denies claims. According to the Seattle Times, the coalition has raised more than $1.8 million for its "Vote No on 67" campaign. If the petition is found to have enough valid signatures, the referendum will appear on the November ballot. Trial lawyers, on the other hand, want to keep the law in place and are supporting passage of the measure. Washington Gov. Christine Gregoire had tried, but failed, to broker a compromise between both groups.