History of Advocacy In the ever-evolving landscape of Illinois politics, Big I Illinois has played a critical role in advocating for the independent insurance agent since our inception in 1899. In this series, we’ve reached out to past Big I Illinois Government Relations Committee Chairs to hear from them on the hot topics, challenges and triumphs the state association has experienced.
Dino Gavanes 1992
Can you please introduce yourself and provide a brief overview of your background and experience in Government Relations?
It was my pleasure and honor to have been involved with our association since the late 70’s, either on the local (county) level, the State Association level, and the National Association level. I also held numerous positions at the National level, including Government Relations Committee, Finance Committee, Trusted Choice Board, and National Director from Illinois. I also chaired the PIA Government Relations Committee for one year during our dual membership years. My experience in Government Relations stems from my involvement on the local and state levels, beginning back in the 80’s. On the county level, we pushed our agenda (which, at the time included no banks in insurance). We also helped elect state reps, senators, and officers that supported our positions. I continued my advocacy when I was elected to the State Association Board and kept doing so during my 25+ tenure at the State Association level.
Gavanes, center
What motivated you to take on the role of Chair of the Government Relations Committee?
Motivation is what drives individuals to act. I think that my motivation for getting involved was to be part of the solution to the issues of the day, rather than merely an observer.
Share initiatives, challenges, goals, objectives, and/or memories from the time you were involved.
There were numerous initiatives in which we were involved. The most memorable for me was the “Banks in Insurance” debate. That lasted more than a decade between the 80’s and 90’s, but culminated in an agreement between the Illinois Bankers Association and the Insurance Coalition which would permit banks to enter the insurance sales business with significant consumer safeguards. The agreed bill passed the House, Senate and was signed by the Governor all in one week. There were four agents from the Life Underwriters, Bill Oliver, Dan Pancake, David Lacine, and me. The bankers had six representatives. We all spent a full day and evening in Springfield and hashed out a deal, in 1997. Soon after, I was asked to testify before a Congressional Committee as to how we were able to accomplish this. I testified on behalf of the Big I and PIA National. I feel it is important to recognize our previous Executive, Mike Tate, as well as Phil Lackman. These two were the smartest lobbyists in Springfield, and they were both ours. I thank them both for their wisdom and guidance. Our successes, to a large part, can be attributed to these two leaders. During the mid to late 80’s the insurance industry experienced a capacity crunch. Obtaining liability coverage at any price was becoming a problem. Consequently, insurers were cancelling, or hiking premiums mid-term. Yes, that was permitted then, until we introduced Senate Bill 200, as a consumer-friendly bill that restricted the ability of carriers to engage in these activities. A huge win for us and the consumer. Of course, the insurance carriers were not happy, and they opposed us, but we prevailed because it was the right thing to do. The association has been very fortunate in having a membership base that supports our Government Relations Programs. I also feel that we need to thank those leaders who really had a passion for Government Relations. The late Ralph Swank was my first mentor, the late Dan Pancake (the Senator), Luke Praxmarer, and Chuck Hruska. Their contributions to our Government Relations efforts can’t be understated. I am sure I missed a few. Sorry. The” Banks in Insurance” and SB 200 issues exemplify the impact that the Government Relations Committee has had on our Association and our industry. Legislation takes time. Although our successes have been considerable, they have been quick. The lesson here is that we need to fight for what you believe in, don’t expect it to be done quickly. Government moves slowly. I mentioned it earlier, but being asked to testify before a Congressional Committee was certainly one of the more interesting events that I can remember. Another good memory was our frequent visits to the Speakers’ Office in the Capitol Building during our Legislative trips to DC. Dennis Hastert was the Speaker, and the Congressman from my district. We all knew him well and were always welcome to visit his office and have a photo op on his balcony. Good memories with good friends and colleagues. Forty years goes by quickly. It was a great ride.
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Insight
April 2024