GARDINER, Maine (AP) — Maine insurance regulators say they helped consumers in the state to recover more than $3 million owed to them during the past year.

Insurance Superintendent Eric Cioppa (CHOP'-pah) says nearly $2.2 million was recovered by the Bureau’s Consumer Health Care Division, and almost $950,000 was recovered by the Property and Casualty Division.

Cioppa says most insurers operating in Maine pay claims properly and quickly. But when individuals or business owners contact the state because of a dispute with an insurance company or agent, the state can often provide assistance.