Tennessee Insuror - January-February 2025

THE TENNESSEE INSUROR

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INSURORS OFFICERS

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e-mailing marketing@insurors.org or online at www.insurors.org

2025 Insurors of Tennessee Board of Directors

Bobby Sain is President of Bolivar Insurance & Real Estate and serves as

livar Central High School and attended University of Mississippi. He later received an

Jackson State Community College. After JSCC, he went to work with his

Estate. Bobby attended and completed several insurance educational classes including Hartford Insurance School for personal and commercial insurance, Hartford, CT. Bobby has always been active in his community where he enjoyed coaching baseball and supporting all Bolivar sports. In his spare time, he loves playing golf and music. He served as one of the youngest City Councilman in Bolivar at age 21 and in 2005 Bobby ran and was elected Mayor, City of Bolivar. In his term, the city received a grant which helped renovate and bring new businesses to downtown Bolivar. Bobby is presently Vice-Chair of Bolivar Downtown Development Corporation. He is also a board member at Western Mental Health Board of Trustees. Bobby and his wife DaJuan have 3 children, Blake, Chase and Shelby. They are members of First Baptist Church in Bolivar.

Battle Bagley, III, CIC, CPA is President of Bagley & Bagley, Inc. in Fayetteville and serves as Vice President, Region II and President Elect. Battle has been working in the insurance business since 1987. Before that, he practiced accounting with the firm currently known as Puryear & Noonan CPA’s PLLC from 1982 to 1987. He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Middle Tennessee State University in 1982. Battle has three grown children, Battle Bagley, IV, Samantha B. Jennings, and John Robert Bagley. He also has two granddaughters, Lilly Beth and Amelia Jennings.

Portis Tanner is the Chief Operating Officer of Westan Insurance Group and serves as Vice President, Region I. He grew up in Union City and graduated from Union City High School. In 1995, he graduated with a business degree from Belmont University in Nashville. In 2012, he became the 4th Chief Operating Officer of the corporate umbrella Westan Insurance Group. He, his wife, Cindy and their children, Beck and Edie, and their dog, Bruce, reside in Union City where he is past president of the Obion County Chamber of Commerce, member of the Rotary Club, and a board member of the Keystone Group of independent insurance agencies. In his free time, you will find him golfing, attending St. Louis Cardinal baseball games, watching the Tennessee Vols, and spending time at Kentucky Lake with his family and friends.

Portis Tanner VP Region II

Bobby Sain President

Battle Bagley, III VP Reg. I/Pres. Elect

Kevin Ownby is a co-owner of Ownby Insurance Service, Inc., in Sevierville and currently serves as Vice President Region III. A 1992 graduate of Sevier County High School, Kevin went on to obtain his Bachelor degree in Finance from the University of Tennessee in 1997. He has been with the family agency for 28 years, where he is now a third-generation owner. He previously served on the Board as Young Agent Chair, Director of Region III, Region III Vice President and Secretary. He also serves on the Big I National Health Care Task Force committee. Kevin also volunteers on the Board for the Boys and Girls Club of the Smoky Mountains where he has served as President and chairman of the One Campaign for the Boys and Girls Club’s annual fundraising efforts and is the state treasurer of the Boys and Girls Club of Tennessee. He currently lives in Seymour with his wife Brooke and their children Kendall and Braden.

John McInturff III, ARM is the President of McInturff, Milligan and Brooks in Greeneville and serves as your IIABA National Director. A Greeneville native, John Graduated from Greeneville High School and then attended the University of Tennessee, earning a B.S. in Business Administration in 1985. He began his insurance career with USF&G and then joined Bennett & Edwards of Kingsport in 1988 where he later became President. In 2006 the Tri-State Claims division of Bennett & Edwards merged with McInturff, Milligan & Brooks to form the current agency. John is a Past-president of the Insurors of Tennessee and has served the Insurors as the Young Agent Chair, Director of Region III, VP of Region III, Secretary, and Treasurer. In addition to his involvement with the Insurors, John is the Past President of Kingsport Jaycees, Past President of HVFC Soccer Club, Past President of Kingsport Rotary-Sunshine Club, and has been involved with Junior Achievement of Tri-Cities. He is a member of First Presbyterian Church of Kingsport and is currently serving his second term as an Elder. He and his wife Tonya reside in Kingsport and have two grown children, Lauren and Lindsey.

Richard H. Whitley CIC is president of McDaniel-Whitley Inc and Memphis Insurance Group Inc in Memphis, and he has serves the IOT as Treasurer. He is a native of Covington and earned his BBA from the University of Mississippi. Richard entered the insurance industry in 1997 and has earned the CIC and CBIA designations. He is a thirty year volunteer for the FedEx St. Jude Championship, Memphis’ PGA Tour tournament. When he isn’t working, Richard enjoys SCUBA diving, golf, hunting, and tailgating with family and friends. He and his wife, Michelle, have two daughters, Caroline and Emmy.

Richard Whitley Treasurer

Kevin Ownby VP Region III

John McInturff III IIABA National Director

Brandon Clarke, CIC is the President of John Bailey Company in Knoxville and serves as Secretary. He is a graduate of Farragut High School and Ole Miss. He has a professional goal of innovating the way we “care for others” via this industry, which is legacy passed down from his father, John, who had 40+ years in the industry. Insurance is a difficult product, and the landscape of our market is difficult, however Brandon believes those pressures are where the opportunity for growth lies. His experience includes time as an insurance underwriter and marketing representative which helped shape Brandon’s expertise and passion for the insurance business. Brandon co-founded Young Professionals of Knoxville and Knoxify.com. He also served as the Dogwood Arts Festival Co-Chair, contributing to the cultural vibrancy of his hometown. Outside of work, Brandon is an Ironman, snowboarder and trail runner. Above all, he considers himself a lucky husband to wife, Lauren, and proud father to three daughters, Emerson who is 16, and identical twin girls, Taylor and Bankston, who are 12. His greatest source of joy and inspiration is his family and the legacy we leave others.

Andrew Maddox is the president of Maddox Insurance and serves as Director of Region I. Maddox Insurance has locations in Huntingdon, Camden, and McKenzie. Andrew has been in the insurance industry since 2009, and has a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Management from Bethel University in McKenzie. He and his wife, Meagen, have three children, Bryce, Grey, and Elyza, and reside in Huntingdon, where they are very active in the community. Andrew has served on the City Council since 2018, is heavily involved at Huntingdon Church of Christ, and loves coaching his kids in youth sports. He is also the public address announcer for Huntingdon High School Football and helps support youth athletics programs across Carroll and Benton Counties. In his spare time, Andrew also enjoys hunting and traveling.

Pam Lofton-Wells is the owner of Lofton-Wells Insurance in Memphis and serves as Director Region I. She earned a degree in Risk Management from the University of Memphis and began her insurance career working with her father, Harry Lofton, starting an agency in their kitchen in 1982. Pam started her own agency in 1998 and helped build both businesses to what they are today merging the agencies when her father retired in 2019. Pam has served on the board for Mi Techo Inc., a nonprofit company that teaches about home ownership and guides individuals through purchase and the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation. She is passionate about building strong relationships with other female agents, mentoring to help them better their businesses. Before becoming an independent agent, Pam was a captive agent for Nationwide, winning six Nationwide’s Conference of Champions and was a four-time winner for Life University. Pam is a part of the IAOA and is a Dave Ramsey ELP. She resides in Memphis with her husband, Michael, who also works for the agency. They have two daughters, Lindsey and Kelsi. Kelsi has become a 3rd generation agent.

Sam Bradshaw IV is a native of Dyersburg, Tennessee and serves as a Director for Region I. Sam started his career at Bradshaw & Co Insurors in 2015 after graduating from the University of Tennessee- Martin with a bachelor’s in Business Administration. Sam came to Bradshaw & Co Insurors to begin his career as an independent agent focusing on Agriculture and Outdoor related products driven by his love for all things outdoors. Bradshaw & Co Insurors was formed in 1965 by Sam Bradshaw Jr, and the importance of creating a strong network of like-minded independent agents was instilled in the culture of the agency, and the legacy of support started in 1977 when Sam Jr entered as Insurors president. Sam has been active with numerous conservation organizations, and any agent can find ease in conversation involving the outdoor lifestyle. Sam is married to Ali Bradshaw, and they have one son, Jack.

Matt Felgendreher is a native of Lexington, Kentucky, and a 2006 graduate of Rhodes College, Matt began his business career as a property and casualty insurance producer in Memphis, before joining WC Dillon Company/Insight Risk Management in August 2011. He combines strong technical insurance knowledge with the business acumen to fully interpret and mitigate a client’s exposure. In his current role as Executive Vice President, he oversees the commercial lines department of the agency, mentors new producers, and manages client relationships. Matt is a Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC). Matt served on the board of the Insurors of Tennessee as the Young Agent Director in 2022 and was recipient of the Insurors Young Agent of the Year award in 2022. He is also a legacy member of the Phoenix Club of Nashville, past-president of the Insurors of Nashville and past board member of the Nashville Humane Association.

Cameron Winterburn is a principal of Winterburn & Associates Insurance Agency located in Pulaski and serves as a Director of Region I. He is graduate of the University of Tennessee at Martin in 2010 where he earned a BSBA degree in Business Administration and Finance. He has served on the Board of Directors of the Giles County Chamber of Commerce and is a member of the GCHS Booster Club. He and his wife, Katie, have been married 10 years and have two children, Ledger and Evelyn. Outside of work he loves to spend his time on the family cattle farm in Giles county.

Pam Lofton-Wells Director, Region I

Brandon Clarke Secretary

Andrew Maddox Director, Region I

Cam Winterburn Director, Region II

Sam Bradshaw, IV Director, Region I

Matt Felgendreher Director, Region II

Jessica Govic serves as the Executive Vice President for the Southeast Region and the Area President for Tennessee at Gallagher, where she plays a pivotal role in steering the strategic direction and growth of the Tennessee, Kentucky, Maryland, Virginia, and DC Metro branches. Her leadership is instrumental in driving organic growth, spearheading the sales team, cultivating robust partnerships, recruitment, and mergers and acquisitions. Her career at Gallagher began in 2007 as a sales intern, and she has since built a robust career, including over a decade of producing and servicing her own book of business in Chicago. In 2016, she was appointed as the Head of Sales for Gallagher’s Public Sector Division. In 2018, Jessica and her husband moved to the Nashville area for her current role, where they are raising their two daughters. She holds a B.S. in Corporate Finance from Northern Illinois University. Her professional affiliations include the Nashville Zoo Board, TN Business Roundtable, and various leadership roles with the American Cancer Society and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Her exemplary contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades, including Gallagher’s prestigious Branch of the Year award in 2021, as well as multiple Power Broker and 40 Under 40 awards from Risk and Insurance Magazine and other esteemed publications.

Stuart F. Oakes, CIC, CRIS is the President of the Construction Division and Partner at TIS Insurance Services, Inc. in Knoxville, and serves as Director of Region III. Born and raised in Knoxville, Stuart graduated from the University of Tennessee in 2006 with a degree in Finance. He joined TIS shortly after graduating, and has held various positions in the agency, and was named President of Construction in 2020. Stuart is involved in several construction associations and the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA). Serving the Insurors is in his blood, as both his grandfather, R.L. Oakes Jr., and his father, R.L. "Bunny" Oakes III, served as President of the Insurors of Tennessee in 1967 and 2002 respectively. His favorite thing outside of work is spending time with his wife, Mary Bailey, and his three boys James (10), Bailey (8) and Johnny B. (5).

Josh Gibbons is the President of Watauga Insurance, Inc. and serves as a Director of Region III. He is a past Young Agent Chair and past Region III Director. Josh began his insurance career as an underwriter for the Cincinnati Insurance Companies and has been in the family agency for over 20 years. He received his Bachelors in Business Administration from the University of Kentucky and is proud to be a part of the Big Blue Nation. Josh has been married to his lovely wife and better half, Lisa, for 23 years and they have 3 amazing children, Marisa, Grant and Corinne. When he’s not spending time with family, Josh is involved in his hometown community of Johnson City. He is Past President and currently serves on the Board of the Johnson City/ Washington County Boys & Girls Club. On the weekends, Josh enjoys English Premier League football, working in the yard, and playing golf on Sunday evenings.

David Clark is a Client Executive at RSS Insurance in Chattanooga, TN, where he's been serving clients since 2013. David serves as Director of Region III. A proud Auburn University graduate with a degree in Finance, David also holds the Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation. With over 10 years in the industry, he’s passionate about finding the right solutions for his clients and offering guidance they can trust. He also enjoys mentoring newer agents, sharing his knowledge and experience to support their growth. When he’s not working, David enjoys spending time with his wife, Meredith, and their three children: Mary Grace, Ellis, and George. He’s also active in his church and community, enjoys hunting, and spending time with family and friends.

Clark Kelman, CIC, is a Partner with Page, Chaffin, & Riggins Insurance of Memphis and serves as Young Agent Director and Collegiate Chair on the Young Agents Committee. He earned a Risk Management and Insurance degree from the University of Mississippi in 2012. He spent his first 3 years on the wholesale side, before starting with Page, Chaffin, and Riggins in 2015 as an Agent and eventually becoming a Partner-Agent in 2020. Clark’s community of Germantown is near and dear to him, as he currently serves as Chair of Germantown Education Foundation and has been involved with Germantown City Commissions. He is also a professional mentor for Epicenter, which is a local non-profit for startup companies. Clark is proud to be married to Hart Kelman, together they have two children, Burke (2) and Patsy (1), and are expecting a third child in June. Clark and his family are members of St. Michaels Catholic Church.

Kym Clevenger, CPCU, is a principle at Oakbridge Insurance in Knoxville and serves as the Immediate Past President. She is a Knoxville native and earned her Bachelor of Arts in Biology, Zoology and Medical Technology from The University of Tennessee at Knoxville. She is also a Registered Nurse. She started her career in the insurance industry in 1996 and earned her CIC in 2001, CPCU in 2007, and CAWC in 2013. Outside of her work with Insurors, Kym is a former president of the Associated Construction Women and enjoys reading, working out, traveling, scuba diving and sporting clays. u

Josh Gibbons Director, Region III

Jessica Govic Director, Region II

Stuart Oakes Director, Region III

Kym Clevenger Immediate Past President

David Clark Director, Region III

Clark Kelman Young Agents Director

Drivers Quickly Learn to Skirt Limits Set by Partial Automation Systems

Drivers are more likely to multitask when using partial automation, and some manage to do so even while playing by the rules of the systems’ attention requirements, new research from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety shows. “These results are a good reminder of the way people learn,” said IIHS President David Harkey. “If you train them to think that paying attention means nudging the steering wheel every few seconds, then that’s exactly what they’ll do.”

Drivers were much more likely to check their phones, eat a sandwich or do other visual-manual activities while using Volvo’s Pilot Assist partial automation system than when driving unassisted, a monthlong study of driver behavior that IIHS conducted with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s AgeLab showed. The tendency to multitask also increased over time for some drivers as they grew more comfortable with the technology, while others were more distracted while using the system from the start.

Meanwhile, many drivers using Tesla’s Autopilot system quickly mastered the timing interval of its attention reminder feature so that they could prevent warnings from escalating to more serious interventions, another IIHS-AgeLab study found. Some people used this skill to continue engaging in distracting behaviors, punctuated by quick moves to stop the alerts. “In both these studies, drivers adapted their behavior to engage in distracting activities,” Harkey said. “This demonstrates why partial automation systems need more robust safeguards to prevent misuse.”

Using cameras and other sensors, partial automation systems can keep your car moving down the road in the center of the lane at the speed you select, slowing down to avoid other vehicles and then accelerating again when the way is clear. However, drivers are supposed to pay close attention to what’s happening on the road and be ready to take over at any time. As the new studies show, not all drivers do.

In the first study, researchers analyzed how the driving behavior of 29 volunteers supplied with a 2017 Volvo S90 sedan equipped with Pilot Assist evolved over a four-week period. Specifically, they examined how likely drivers were to engage in nondriving activities when using the automation on highways relative to driving unassisted and then evaluated how this relationship changed over time.

The study, led by IIHS Senior Research Scientist Ian Reagan, used data collected over three years, during which the vehicles driven by the volunteers received two software updates that improved the lane-centering feature and attention reminders. For this reason, the researchers separated the drivers into three groups. One group did all their driving before either update, a second drove the vehicles after the changes to the lane-centering feature, and a third did their driving after both the lane-centering feature and the attention reminder updates. All versions required the driver to keep their hands on the steering wheel.

Continued on page 12.

The research team also changed the recruitment strategy af ter the second group to only enroll those who did a lot of driving on highways, where partial automation works best. Regardless of the version of the system used, all three groups of drivers engaged in distracting visual-manual activities, in cluding eating, grooming and using electronics, more often when using Pilot Assist than while driving without it. This was true whether they used the feature a lot or hardly at all.

The first two groups were more likely to be distracted while driving with Pilot Assist during the second half of the month they had the vehicle than the first. Like the results of an ear lier, related study, this suggests that they became bolder or more complacent as they got used to the system. The third group was about equally likely to perform secondary tasks while using partial automation over the second two weeks as they were during the first two weeks. Throughout the month, the percentage of time that they were distracted while using it was exceedingly high — more than 30%.

“We saw some differences in how the three groups used Pilot Assist, but we couldn’t say for sure they were related to the software changes,” Reagan said. “The takeaway for me was that the technology was linked to more distraction for all three.”

In the second study, a different group of IIHS and AgeLab researchers examined how the driving behavior of 14 people who had never used Tesla’s Autopilot or any other partial automation system changed over a month of driving a 2020 Tesla Model 3. Unlike the Volvo study, this one focused on how often the drivers triggered the system’s initial attention reminders, escalated warnings and emergency slowdown and lockout procedures.

At the time, Autopilot relied exclusively on a torque sensor in the steering wheel to monitor whether the driver was paying attention. If the system failed to detect the driver’s hands on the wheel for a short time, it would issue an initial attention reminder — a gray hands-on-wheel icon that appeared on the central display, along with a flashing blue light and a written message instructing the driver to apply a slight turning force to the steering wheel.

The driver could indicate they were still engaged by making a slight steering adjustment, tapping the turn-signal stalk or toggling a dial on the steering wheel. If the system didn’t detect one of those responses soon enough, it would begin a series of escalating visual and audible alarms and alerts. As a last resort, Autopilot would slow the vehicle to a stop, deactivate and deny the driver access to the feature for the rest of the trip.

In total, the volunteers drove a little more than 12,000 miles with Autopilot engaged. During that time, they triggered 3,858 attention-related warnings from the partial automation (continued on page 15)

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system. About half of those alerts occurred when they had at least one hand on the steering wheel but were apparently not moving it enough to satisfy the torque sensor.

Most warnings didn’t proceed beyond the initial attention reminder, and, on average, the drivers responded to the alert within about three seconds (usually by nudging the steering wheel). In 72 instances, however, the driver didn’t respond fast enough to prevent the alerts from escalating. Remarkably, 16 of these escalations — 12 of them from one driver and four from three others — persisted through the entire sequence to result in the driver being locked out of the system. From the first to the fourth week, the rate of initial attention reminders per 1,000 miles traveled with Autopilot increased by 26%, while the rate of escalations fell by 64%. The average length of the initial attention reminders fell by about half a second after the first week.

The percentage of time that drivers were disengaged in the period surrounding the alerts also increased, even though the duration of each alert was shorter. The researchers found that the drivers did nondriving secondary activities, looked

away from the road, and had both hands off the wheel more often during the alerts and in the 10 seconds before and after them as they learned how the attention reminders worked. The longer they used the system, the less time it took them to take their hands off the wheel again once the alerts stopped.

The safety impact of that change is hard to measure. Other research shows that the longer a driver’s attention wanders, the greater the odds they will be involved in a crash. However, it’s also logical that at some point even short lapses of attention become so frequent that the periods of supposed engagement between them have little value.

“These results show that escalating, multimodal attention reminders are very effective in getting drivers to change their behavior,” said IIHS Senior Research Scientist Alexandra Mueller, the study’s lead author. “However, better safeguards are needed to ensure that the behavior change actually translates to more attentive driving.” u

Source: Article Reprinted with permission from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety / Highway Loss Data Institute

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Small Town Agency Feature Jack Ray Insurance Agency – Humboldt, Tennessee

We are proud to present the Jack Ray Insurance Agency as part of our continuing coverage of small market agencies across the state. The agency was founded by Jack Ray in 1950 in the same year the Korean War started. It was a tumultuous time with war raging on the Korean Peninsula and the Cold War against the Soviet Union becoming more challenging by the day. On a less serious note, 1950 was also the year the Peanuts comic strip was first published in several newspapers across the nation.

Kathy Brown serves as an Agent/Manager for the agency, helping to increase sales and profitable growth for the firm. The agency also has a location in nearby Jackson, Tennessee extending the organization’s market reach. Mack Maness, from Lexington, TN, started with the agency in September of 2023 and runs the Jackson office. .

Like many in the postWorld War II era across America, Jack Ray saw the insurance business as an opportunity and started his independent agency providing insurance products and consultations to farmers, businesses, and families in Humboldt, Tennessee and nearby markets in the West Tennessee area. The agency was founded upon key fundamental guiding principles including being honest and fair with all clients, being genuinely interested in people and their challenges, and always treating clients’ needs as if they were their own.

Jack continued to work in the agency for forty-five years until 1995 when he passed away. His son Bobby, who had been working in the agency alongside his father, took over the reins of ownership around that time. Bobby graduated from Memphis State University or the University of Memphis as it is now called. He continues to lead the agency today. His wife Donna serves as the accountant and provides added administrative support for the agency. She is a graduate of Jackson State Community College. Bobby’s daughter Amelia Ray is also involved in the business as an agent. Amelia graduated from Bethel University in McKenzie, Tennessee. She is married and has two children.

Clearly, the Jack Ray Agency is positioned for its third generation of success 75 years after Jack started the agency in 1950. Congratulations to the Ray family and their colleagues who have navigated the twists and turns of the economy through wars, recessions, and a historic pandemic over the past 75 years. May the future be bright for you all!

About Humboldt, Tennessee

Humboldt, Tennessee, is a town with a rich and diverse history that reflects the broader narrative of the American South. Located in Gibson and Madison counties, Humboldt has grown from a small settlement into a vibrant community known for its cultural heritage and annual celebrations.

The history of Humboldt dates to the mid-1850s when the first settlers arrived in the area. The city’s development was significantly influenced by the construction of the Mobile & Ohio and Memphis & Ohio railroads in 1859. These railroads set up Humboldt as a crucial transportation hub, facilitating trade and commerce in the region. The city’s strategic location along these rail lines attracted businesses and settlers, leading to its rapid growth.

In 1866, shortly after the Civil War, Humboldt was officially incorporated. This period marked the formal establishment of the city and the beginning of its structured governance. The incorporation was a pivotal moment, setting the stage for Humboldt’s future development and prosperity. The late 19th and early 20th centuries were periods of significant economic and cultural development for Humboldt. The city’s economy was primarily driven by agriculture, with cotton being the dominant crop. The fertile lands of West Tennessee provided ideal conditions for farming, and Humboldt became a center for agricultural trade.

One of the most notable cultural events in Humboldt’s history is the West Tennessee Strawberry Festival, which began in 1934. This annual festival celebrates the region’s strawberry harvest and has grown into a major event that attracts visitors from across the state and beyond. The festival features parades, pageants, and various community activities, highlight Humboldt’s strong sense of community and tradition.

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The mid-20th century saw continued growth and modernization in Humboldt. The city expanded its infrastructure, including schools, hospitals, and recreational facilities, to accommodate the needs of its growing population. The establishment of the Humboldt Historical Society in 1976 was a significant milestone in preserving the city’s rich heritage. The society manages a museum that displays artifacts, photographs, and historical documents, providing valuable insights into Humboldt’s past.

In recent years, Humboldt has continued to thrive as a small but dynamic city. The community is still deeply connected to its agricultural roots while embracing modern developments. The city’s annual events, such as the Strawberry Festival and other celebrations throughout the year, continue to play a vital role in fostering community spirit and attracting tourism.

In addition to the West Tennessee Strawberry festival each year, Humboldt has also become known for its beautiful murals painted on the sides of buildings across the town. Many of the murals are designed and painted by students with the guidance of art teachers or artists who specialize in the design and painting of murals in public spaces. The murals are

a collaborative effort that involves the city and members of the community. The murals contribute to building a colorful and welcoming aesthetic for residents and visitors alike. If you visit Humboldt, please be sure to view and appreciate these works of public art.

From Gibson County News, November 14,2023

MAIN STREET MURAL – A mural has been painted on the Main Fit Yoga building owned by Shane and Libby Lynch in downtown Humboldt. This main street mural was made possible by a grant applied for by art teacher Lynch with the Tennessee Arts Commission. The grant awarded Humboldt City Schools $8,900 to bring the mural vision to life with artist Hamilton Glass. Art students worked on the mural for two days with Glass painting everything that could be reached on the ground and with a ladder. Glass finished the mural using a scissor lift and spray paint where the kids couldn’t reach. The mural took five days to complete and will remain a staple in Humboldt for years to come. u

From Your President

Bobby Sain

Looking Forward to a Productive 2025

The Insurors of Tennessee and the Big “I” are moving forward quickly with plans, initiatives, and events in 2025. I had the honor of attending the Big “I” Winter meeting held in Austin, Texas on January 28 - February 1, 2025. The Executive Committee and various other Standing Committees of the Big I organization met to conduct the business of the association and set the course for the Big “I” at the national level for this year and beyond. Out of a myriad of topics being addressed, I noted the association is planning to focus on liability reform, more support for local marketing, and is watching a range of rapidly developing issues emerging from a changing marketplace and a new administration in Washington. Clearly, the landscape is fluid and requires our attention and engagement at the national level.

We are truly a member driven organization that draws upon the broad experience and expertise of members from across the nation to inform, guide, and power this association forward in Washington. The same holds true for the Insurors of Tennessee at the state level. Clearly, the foundation of our success is the active participation of members and a dedicated board who propel the success of our association.

At the national level, we have a busy year ahead with the next significant national event being the Big “I” Legislative Conference from April 30, 2025, to May 2, 2025, at the Westin Hotel in Washington D.C. For many years, the Insurors of Tennessee has had a strong contingent of members attend the conference to learn from the Big “I” staff about their observations and priorities as they see it in Washington. They also hear our input about issues and priorities important to Tennesseans that is often incorporated into the overall advocacy plan. Perhaps most importantly, the event provides members from our delegation with the op -

portunity to meet elected leaders from Tennessee to present our concerns on matters important to our membership. I encourage you to make plans now to join the group of members travelling to Washington D.C. this Spring. Please contact the association office in Nashville for more details. We hope to have a strong contingent of members to make our voices heard in the nation’s capital.

Staying with the advocacy and legislative affairs theme, your association just concluded a successful event held at the Hermitage Hotel in Nashville where we had the chance to meet with state legislators and leadership to get to know one another and to forge relationships to address issues important to the Insurors of Tennessee. As a former mayor of my community, I know that keeping respectful, positive, and constructive communications between constituents and elected leaders is critical to better outcomes for all. If you have legislative or regulatory concerns, please reach out to a member of our Legislative Committee or to our Government Affairs Consultant, Trey Moore. This will enable us to be aware of specific items of concern, track potential legislation, and help with addressing the issue.

This year I am extremely interested in growing our membership across the state. We need to find the new agencies that have formed in the past few years and approach them about becoming members. We deliver exceptional value to any agency; I am certain new and developing agencies can benefit from what we have to offer. We should also approach agencies and insurance organizations across the state that may have been overlooked for one reason or another who are not members. I am planning on working with the board and Insurors staff to develop a process to support growth in the three geographic segments. I believe if we enlist the help

of board members, young agents, insurance women, and the broader membership in a recruitment effort, we can grow our association in Tennessee. This initiative is a work in progress. Stay tuned!

One area members should take advantage of are the insurance products offered through the Insurors of Tennessee’s Nashville office and the products offered by Big “I” Markets. In either case, the products can help shore up the product offering of many agencies. Please visit www.insurors.org and select the Products and Services tab. You can also contact our Stephen Holmes who is our Products specialist at the Insurors office at shomes@insurors.org or 615-515-2609.

Going forward, I believe there is an opportunity to assist members with information, resources, products and/or services for unique underserved markets or niches. This is an area we will be exploring in the coming weeks and months for 2025. Keep in mind this is simply exploration at this point. We’ll keep you posted if anything is identified and developed.

I want to thank past President Kym Clevenger, the board, and our staff for a smooth transition as I assume the responsibilities of this historic association. This association has a lot of moving parts and operational responsibilities, so the transition between Presidents each year is key to staying on course and not losing momentum. Thank you to all!

I am looking forward to a productive 2025 for the Insurors of Tennessee on behalf of our members, associate members, partners, and staff. I am sure I will see many of you at events throughout the year. See you soon! u

From Your Executive Director

Kristen Gulson

Ours is an Industry That Demands Speed, Agility, and Precision

I am certain all members and associate members of the Insurors of Tennessee are off to a fast and productive start to 2025. Ours is an industry that demands speed, agility, and precision as we meet the ever-changing needs of our clients in a business that is always rapidly evolving. For those of us who engage in the mission to help clients manage and mitigate their exposure to risk, the challenges and consequences are not theoretical but very real. The work we do has a significant impact on the success of companies and the financial well-being of families every year. To be sure, insurance and risk management are critical elements in providing businesses in our communities the confidence to move forward and families with the peace of mind to enjoy their lives. Ours is an essential service in towns and cities across our state and the nation.

As such an essential business, the insurance industry always draws the attention of legislative bodies and regulators at the state and federal levels. That fact is perhaps even more evident today as a result of economic and societal trends further complicated by major catastrophes caused by major storms, fires, and other events across the nation. It is why the advocacy and legislative affairs ef-

forts of this association at the state and national level are vital to the health and stability of our industry. To be clear, there are states and areas of the country where insurance topics are at the forefront of public discourse and legislative attention. At the national level, this is also the case with debates about a range of issues today. The ability to provide legislators and regulators with key input on these issues and pending legislation has never been more important.

I am pleased to report that our legislative event held here in Nashville with state legislators in February was both productive and informative. Meeting with and nurturing relationships with our elected leaders to keep lines of communication open gives us the ability to help shape legislation and in some cases prevent potentially damaging measures that could inadvertently negatively affect our ability to provide clients with insurance products and services. Thank you to our board and all members who attended the event at the Hermitage Hotel in Nashville. It was time well spent.

It is important to note that advocacy and legislative affairs work is an ongoing effort throughout the year in Nashville and in Washington. Trey Moore is work-

ing with our legislative affairs committee to closely monitor measures coming before the Tennessee General Assembly once again this year to ensure our voice is heard in the halls of the state capital. At the same time, we are always working with the government affairs staff in Washington to coordinate and make certain we are at the table as hearings are held on pending legislation and as executive orders are contemplated from the White House. The truth is that the success or failure of such advocacy efforts starts with each of you including your engagement and financial contributions.

We encourage you to stay informed and respond to any “calls to action” we request as we move forward in 2025. We also welcome any financial contributions you can make to InsurPac at the national level InsurPacTN at the state level as we build financial resources for the 2026 election cycle. Campaigns will begin in earnest for 2026 in just a few months. So, your financial contributions to our political action committees now are important.

Continued on page 25.

SPEED. AGILITY. PRECISION.

From Your Executive Director - Kristen Gulson -

One of my key objectives in 2025 is to make sure members are taking advantage of the robust education opportunities we are offering this year both in person and via remote technology. I encourage each of you to see the education schedule in this edition of the Tennessee Insuror magazine and on the Insurors of Tennessee website at www. insurors.org and select the education tab at the top of the page.

The start of the year is always a great time to map out our education and professional development strategy for you and your staff now. If you have any questions, please reach out to our awardwinning Education Specialist, Teresa Durham at tdurham@insurors.org or by phone at 615-515-2607. She will be happy to answer your questions or provide you with guidance. While the Insurors of Tennessee Annual Convention

is later this year, now is a good time to mark your calendars. This year the event will be held in Memphis on October 1114, 2025, at the East Memphis Hilton. We are already planning the details for the event that will be forthcoming in the next few months. Be sure to watch our social media posts, e-mailers, and our website for more events scheduled throughout the year across Tennessee. We look forward to seeing you at the Annual Convention and other events we are planning for 2025.

While on the subject of the annual convention and events, we are pleased to announce a new addition to our staff. Sharon Nettles joins the Insurors of Tennessee as our new Member Engagement and Events Manager. Sharon will be focused on developing and supporting member initiatives and events throughout the year. She brings a wealth of ex-

perience and expertise to our association that will be of great benefit to our association. We will be telling you more about Sharon in an upcoming issue of this magazine. Please be sure to welcome Sharon to the Insurors of Tennessee. You can reach her at snettles@insurors.org or at 615-515-2605.

I look forward to my first full year as your Executive Director. I plan to get out on the road to visit with you and to attend events across Tennessee this year. I want to learn more about you, your agency, company or organization to discover how this association can provide you with the support to succeed and thrive in this industry.

If you have questions, input, or would just like to chat, please contact me at kgulson@insurors.org or by phone at 615-515-2601.. u

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Tennessee Young Agents '24 Young Agent Spotlight

Evans Looney III • Palmer & Wallace Insurance Brokerage, LLC, Nashville

In the first Young Agent Spotlight of 2025 we introduce you to Evans Looney III who is employed by Palmer & Wallace Insurance Brokerage as an Account Executive located in the Green Hills area of Nashville. In his role as Account Executive, he also has expanded responsibilities within the organization centered around contributing to the overall growth and success of the organization.

Palmer & Wallace describes itself as a boutique insurance organization focused on delivering a high level of technical insurance knowledge and expertise to clients supported by exceptional service. The brokerage primarily focuses on providing commercial insurance to organizations with more complex and challenging insurance and risk management needs. While the brokerage is relatively new, the principals in the business have substantial experience and deep roots in the insurance business. The brokerage is led by insurance veterans Jack Wallace and Wallace Palmer.

Evans Looney III is a graduate of Montgomery Bell Academy (MBA) in Nashville and furthered his education at the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) earning a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree in 2022. Evans noted that within the construct of his curriculum at Ole Miss he had a heavy emphasis on insurance and risk management courses. During his time at the university, he also worked and gained valuable early experience in the industry with two insurance organizations including BrownRiding and Burns & Wilcox during his time at Ole Miss. While in school he also learned about the Big “I” of Mississippi and the role the Big “I” plays in the insurance and risk management industry.

Upon graduation Evans moved up to become an Associate Underwriter with Burns and Wilcox. He then joined CRC as an Associate Broker in December of 2023 prior to joining Palmer & Wallace in December of 2024. Beyond his recent education and experience in the industry, he was exposed to the insurance business as he was growing up since his father, Evans Looney, Jr was an executive with Humana for over 17 years and is now a Vice-President with Gallagher in Nashville. So, Evans roots are deep in the world of insurance.

Evans credits three mentors for helping him along the way as he started his career. First, he voiced his deep appreciation to his father for his wisdom and guidance about life in general and more specifically the insurance business. He also greatly values the guidance and leadership provided to him by Alec Ossorio at Burns & Wilcox in Oxford, Mississippi. Today, he very much appreciates the time and investment Jack Wallace and other members of the team at Palmer and Wallace provide for him every week. Evans expression of appreciation to these leaders serves as a reminder to us all about the importance of taking time to invest in our young professionals through mentoring and offering professional education opportunities on a consistent basis.

When asked what he enjoys most about his career at this point, he at once replied, “I like helping to educate clients about insurance and assisting them to find the right insurance and risk management solution tuned to their needs.” He elaborated further that he gets a great deal of satisfaction out explaining how insurance works and what product solutions combined with specific risk management strategies can protect the interests of their business. It is notable that Evans brings real enthusiasm and passion to the job and to the mission of Palmer & Wallace.

YA

The Young Agent Spotlight stories are developed to bring attention to the tremendous amount of young talent employed in our industry at insurance agencies, insurance companies, and the various vendors who support our business in Tennessee.

If you are an Insuror of Tennessee member or partner, please feel free to send us the name of your candidate, why you think this person should be featured, and contact information of the individual you believe is worthy of a feature article in the magazine. Submissions can be sent to Jake Smith at jsmith@insurors.org.

In discussing what he would share with people considering a career in the insurance industry, he speaks about the broad range of opportunities and areas of specialization within the industry from insurance agencies to insurance companies. Evans makes a very insightful observation about the “age gap” between members of the leadership of many insurance agencies, brokers, and insurance companies and those entering the business now. He surmises that this gap will create growth and promotion opportunities for individuals entering the insurance business today and into the future.

Another point Evans makes at this still early stage of his career is that strong critical thinking skills and the ability to solve problems are an essential part of being successful in providing clients with the insurance protection they require. He further comments that emotional intelligence, the ability to actively listen, and exceptional communication skills are essential elements in serving clients.

This year Evans will be serving as an at-large member of the Young Agents Committee of the Insurors of Tennessee. He looks forward to collaborating with his peers from across Tennessee as they learn more about the mission of the association, set out to achieve objectives, and share experiences as the work of the committee moves forward in 2025.

Outside of work Evans is a member of Covenant Presbyterian Church in Green Hills where he is involved with teaching and mentoring young people. He enjoys playing pickle ball on a regular basis. He also enjoys fly fishing and ties his own flies as part of the craft. u

• General Contractors

• Building Trade Contractors

• Utility Contractors

• Land Improvement Contractors

• Pavement Maintenance-Non DOT

• Services Contractors

• Building Cleaning & Maintenance Contractors

• Construction Material Suppliers

• Manufacturing

• Wholesale and Distributing

All classes may not be available in all

• Tele-emergent medicine program-connects injured workers to medical care, not “triage” • Below is just a broad listing. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, please contact us.

• 24/7/365 loss reporting-including online •

• Accelerated auto and property estimating and repair options •

• “Fast Track” medical only claims handling program •

Bill Vanderslice, Regional Vice-President 615-932-5508 | bvanderslice@berkleysig.com or your Middle Market Underwriter

ACUITY INSURANCE

AF GROUP

ASSOCIATED INSURANCE ADMINISTRATOR

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY GUARD INS.

BUILDERS INSURANCE GROUP

CENTRAL INSURANCE COMPANIES

EMC INSURANCE

FCCI INSURANCE GROUP

FRANKENMUTH INSURANCE

FRONTLINE INSURANCE

GRAHAM -ROGERS INSURANCE

GRANGE INSURANCE

HARFORD MUTUAL

J.M. WILSON

KEYSTONE INSURERS GROUP

SAFEWAY INSURANCE COMPANY

WESTFIELD INSURANCE

ZENITH INSURANCE COMPANY

State Advocacy Update Government & Legal Update

The 114th General Assembly began with a special session called by Governor Bill Lee on January 27, 2025, to address several priority issues, including education, disaster relief, and public safety. The session resulted in the passage of the Education Freedom Act, which expands school choice options in Tennessee, as well as new measures related to immigration enforcement. Additionally, lawmakers approved a disaster relief package to aid areas impacted by Hurricane Helene, providing much-needed resources for recovery and rebuilding efforts.

As the regular session progresses, the Insurors of Tennessee remains focused on ensuring that legislative and regulatory decisions promote a stable and competitive insurance market. By engaging with policymakers, we continue to advocate for policies that support our members and the businesses and individuals they serve across the state.

Tennessee Legislative Reception

On February 12, 2025, we hosted our annual Legislative Reception at the historic Hermitage Hotel in Nashville. The event saw an impressive turnout, with over 100 industry professionals and 76 state lawmakers in attendance. This gathering provided a valuable platform for our members to engage directly with lawmakers, fostering meaningful discussions on issues pertinent to the insurance industry and small businesses in Tennessee.

Highlights from the Governor's State of the State Address

Governor Bill Lee delivered his State of the State address on February 10, 2025. If you missed it, here are some of his key initiatives in his proposed FY2026 budget:

• Education: Governor Lee emphasized the importance of civics education, proposing funding to expand the Institute of American Civics at the University of Tennessee to enhance K-12 students' understanding of American founding principles.

• Infrastructure: He proposed over $1 billion in funding to address Tennessee's $30 billion backlog in road projects, including nearly $1 billion in one-time state tax money and an annual $80 million from the sales tax on tires.

• Energy: The Governor announced a $50 million investment to support the Tennessee Valley Authority's development of a small modular nuclear reactor, positioning Tennessee as a leader in energy innovation.

• Housing: To address affordable housing, he introduced a $60 million Starter Home Revolving Loan Fund aimed at increasing the availability of affordable starter homes, particularly in rural areas, and the Rural and Workforce Housing Tax Credit Program.

• Public Safety: The budget includes $37.9 million to hire 100 new state troopers and $3.4 million for the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, aiming to enhance public safety across the state.

• Childcare: Governor Lee proposed $11 million in funding for the Boys and Girls Club to expand childcare programs, addressing the high cost of infant care in Tennessee.

• Disaster Relief: In response to recent natural disasters, over $450 million has been appropriated for direct disaster relief, supporting ongoing recovery efforts and proactive preparation for future emergencies.

State Legislation

Our advocacy team is actively tracking several bills in the current legislative session that may impact the insurance industry and our members:

• HB0004/SB0004 – Oppose

This bill seeks to amend the Tennessee Governmental Tort Liability Act by increasing the monetary limits recoverable in lawsuits against local government entities. While well-intended, the proposal could lead to higher liability insurance costs for local governments, resulting in increased premiums and financial strain on municipalities.

• HB0864/SB1335 – Oppose

This bill would require proof of financial responsibility before vehicle registration and significantly increase penalties for coverage lapses. While the intent is to enforce Tennessee’s Financial Responsibility Law, HB 0864 imposes significant administrative burdens on county clerks, insurance agencies, and responsible drivers— while doing little to ensure more Tennesseans remain insured.

The Insurors of Tennessee remains committed to advocating for common-sense policies that protect the interests of independent agents, policyholders, and businesses. We will continue working with lawmakers to ensure legislation supports a fair and competitive insurance market in Tennessee.

Government & Legal Update

Federal Activity

At the federal level, our colleagues at the Big "I" have highlighted the reintroduction of the "Disaster Mitigation and Tax Parity Act of 2025" in the U.S. Senate. This bipartisan legislation seeks to exempt qualified catastrophe mitigation payments from being considered taxable income, thereby encouraging property owners to undertake disaster mitigation efforts. Such measures are crucial in reducing future disasterrelated losses and strengthening community resilience.

Upcoming: Big “I” Legislative Conference

We are pleased to announce that registration is now open for the 2025 Big "I" Legislative Conference, scheduled for April 30 to May 2 at The Westin Washington, D.C. Downtown Hotel. This premier event offers independent agents a unique

opportunity to engage directly with legislators and advocate for the interests of our industry. Early-bird registration is available until March 31, and hotel accommodations tend to fill up quickly. cures-corporate-transparency-act-exemptionfor-insurance-agents

About the Author—Trey Moore is the government and legal consultant for Insurors. He operates Trey Moore Consulting in Nashville and formerly served as senior public policy counsel for one of Nashville’s largest law firms. Trey has over a decade of experience in representing clients before the Tennessee General Assembly and state government. u

Below are photos from the Annual Legislative Reception held at the historic Hermitage Hotel in Nashville on February 12.

Ever Wonder What InsurPac Does For YOU?

In today’s rapidly changing political environment, the decisions made in Washington, D.C. have far-reaching consequences for industries across the nation. For independent insurance agents and brokers, these decisions often impact everything from daily business operations to the policies they offer their clients. That’s why having a strong, unified voice on Capitol Hill is not just important—it’s absolutely essential. InsurPac, the Big “I” federal political action committee (PAC), is at the heart of ensuring that the interests of independent agents are effectively represented, and their voices are heard where it matters most.

InsurPac is a powerful tool that allows independent agents and brokers to make their collective voice heard in Washington, D.C. It is driven by personal contributions from industry professionals—from insurance producers to carrier executives to association staff—who come together to pool resources and advocate for policies that support the independent agency system. Thanks to its unwavering commitment to the industry, InsurPac has thrived, growing both in participation and influence.

In 2024, InsurPac raised more than $1.26 million, an impressive feat fueled by over 3,200 investors. With an average donation of $400, these contributions reflect the collective dedication of independent agents who are committed to ensuring their concerns remain front and center in Washington.

Before I ever ventured into political fundraising, I worked on Capitol Hill in the U.S. Senate, where I was responsible for scheduling meetings and engaging with both my Senator and their constituents. Every day, I witnessed industries fighting for attention, each trying to cut through the noise. What became clear to me was that the groups who truly stood out weren’t necessarily the largest—they were the ones that worked smarter. They approached Capitol Hill from every angle, leveraging Hill visits, district relationships, and, crucially, political support through PACs.

This is why a strong PAC and government affairs team are vital. PACs like InsurPac provide the resources necessary to amplify our voices and keep critical issues in the spotlight. I’ve seen firsthand how valuable these relationships are. Capitol Hill staffers routinely reach out to our federal affairs team for input—not because they have to, but because they trust the Big “I” and its members. This trust is a powerful tool, and it’s one we’ve worked hard to earn.

Independent agents face a unique set of challenges in an increasingly complex and competitive market. From navigating the reform of flood insurance to contending with tax policies that directly impact small businesses, it’s crucial that these issues remain a priority for lawmakers. InsurPac is committed to ensuring that the voice of the independent agent is amplified and that concerns are not only heard but acted upon.

By pooling the resources of thousands of agents and brokers, InsurPac establishes meaningful, bipartisan relationships with lawmakers, creating lasting influence. The ability to engage effectively with policymakers is what truly sets InsurPac apart from other PACs.

As independent agents, you are trusted advisors, helping your clients navigate risk and uncertainty. Supporting InsurPac is an extension of that commitment. Former North Carolina Agent Leader Don Evans captured the importance of supporting InsurPac perfectly when he said, “We are risk managers. We are as well-known as anyone in our communities, towns and cities. We are trusted and looked to for advice by MBA's, CPA's, CEO's, CFO's, MD's and PHD's; yes, everyone needs us. We are great supporters of our communities, and we operate our offices with an open-door policy. We only need to answer the phone or open the door and there stands a person representing every social organization known to man–the rotary, chamber, scouts, little leagues, and many more."

"We are excellent at managing those things in front of us; those personal things we see and touch daily that affect our sales and operations. But what we do not do a very good job of is protecting our backs from the government by supporting InsurPac. It seems that there are those, for whatever reason, who do not want to participate in PACs. For those people there is a test: if you can simultaneously walk the corridors of Congress and have the ear of every Representative and Senator on every issue near and dear to your heart, and at the same time stay home and do your job, then you do not need InsurPac.” His words remind us that advocacy is not a solo effort. It requires collective action, and every independent agent has a part to play in shaping the future of the industry.

Support to InsurPac is more than just writing a check—it’s an investment in the future of the independent agency system. Every dollar donated helps fund the crucial work of advocating for favorable policies that ensure the success and longevity of independent agents. The Big “I” government affairs team leverages these resources to build relationships, attend political events, and engage in conversations with lawmakers.

The independent agency system faces a multitude of challenges—from evolving regulations to shifting market dynamics. InsurPac provides the tools and resources necessary to navigate these obstacles and ensure that independent agents have a seat at the table when decisions are made.

By supporting InsurPac, agents are not only safeguarding their businesses today but also building a foundation for the future. It’s an investment in the continued success of the independent agency system, ensuring that it remains a thriving and influential part of the insurance industry for generations to come. Together, we can ensure that independent agents continue to thrive, no matter what the future holds. u

Agents, brokers, carrier executives, and Big "I" staff protect their business by contributing to InsurPac.

Formed in 1974, InsurPac, the Big I’s federal political action committee (PAC) is one of the largest small business PACs in the country and the most recognized PAC in the insurance industry.

InsurPac distributes that $$ to campaigns for U.S. Representatives, Senators and candidates seeking federal office who support the IA system.

Those relationships help open doors to advocate for or against legislation that directly impacts the IA system.

InsurPac allows our Big "I" federal lobbyists and agents to attend fundraising events. Where they develop relationships with members of Congress and their staff.

Advocacy in Action

Last year, the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) was enacted, requiring 32.6 million businesses to report their beneficial ownership information to the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). According to FinCEN, this yearly reporting requirement is estimated to take up to 650 minutes and $2,614 per entity, with civil and criminal penalties of up to $10,000 and two years in prison for non-compliance. These new mandates will not apply to insurance agents and brokers because the Big “I” secured an exemption for insurance producers in the authorizing legislation.

When Tax Reform passed in 2017, the Big “I” made sure independent agents were not considered specified services, and therefore able to take full advantage of section 199A, the 20% small business deduction for pass-through entities. That deduction is scheduled to expire at the end of 2025 The Big “I” has successfully worked to introduce legislation called The Main Street Tax Certainty Act, which would make that deduction permanent.

The Big “I” has successfully advocated for the extension of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) on numerous occasions over the last several years.

Strength In Numbers

During the 2023 - 2024 election cycle, InsurPac disbursed over $2.6 million to 278 campaigns, winning 268 for a 96% VICTORY RATE

InsurPac speaks as a collective voice for thousands of donors whose contributions directly to federal campaigns might otherwise go unnoticed

We are risk managers. We are as well-known as anyone in our communities, towns and cities. We are trusted and looked to for advice by MBA's, CPA's, CEO's, CFO's, MD's and PHD's; yes, everyone needs us We are great supporters of our communities, and we operate our offices with an open-door policy We only need to answer the phone or open the door and there stands a person representing every social organization known to man – the rotary, chamber, scouts, little leagues, and many more.

We are excellent at managing those things in front of us; those personal things we see and touch daily that affect our sales and operations But what we do not do a very good job of is protecting our backs from the government by supporting InsurPac It seems that there are those, for whatever reason, who do not want to participate in PACs For those people there is a test: if you can simultaneously walk the corridors of Congress and have the ear of every Representative and Senator on every issue near and dear to your heart, and at the same time stay home and do your job, then you do not need InsurPac.

Quote from Former North Carolina Agent Leader Don Evans

Historical Context: PACs emerged as a response to campaign fundraising scandals, aiming to reform the political fundraising landscape following controversies during the Nixon Administration. PACs offer a clean and transparent method for contributors of a similar profession to come together and amplify their voice in the political process.

Collective Voice: PACs pool together contributions from individual donors, allowing them to collectively support candidates' campaigns and ensuring their voices are heard amidst larger donors. A congressional candidate may not notice fifty contributions of $100 a piece, but they are sure to notice a PAC contribution of $5,000 and the entity that delivers it.

PACs Break Through the Noise: There are thousands of associations, companies, charities, causes, and individuals with their own agendas, all vying for a limited amount of time from members of Congress. Nearly all members of Congress must fundraise and InsurPac allows the Big “I” to attend those fundraising events, where conversations are had and relationships developed.

Visibility and Advocacy: Organizations with large PACs can attend more fundraising events, develop stronger relationships with elected officials, and have a more significant impact on political races and legislation Legislators are keenly aware of which groups have the largest PACs because they regularly see those lobbyists and association members at fundraising events. Not only does that constant presence reflect a strong PAC, but it also signals a vibrant and active membership that is paying attention and engaged in the political process

Multiplying Effect: Organizations with robust PACs, like the Big "I," gain recognition and influence in Washington, D.C., enabling them to sit on political steering committees and host fundraising events for federal legislators, effectively multiplying the impact of InsurPac. In a typical year, InsurPac and the Big “I” will host several dozen fundraising events benefiting the campaigns of federal legislators. These events routinely raise between $20,000 and $100,000 from other industry PACs on top of the money that InsurPac is giving.

The Big “I” works tirelessly to ensure that your interests as independent insurance agents are well represented on Capitol Hill. And your support of the Big “I” Flood program with Selective helps the Big “I” better serve you!

Most recently, the Big “I” and other stakeholders negotiated improvements to pending NFIP reauthorization legislation that could save agents millions of dollars in compensation if passed into law.

It is through production generated from Big “I” Flood appointed agents that Selective provides efforts on behalf of independent agents, by promoting NFIP reform and sustainability.

with Selective, you will enjoy competitive commissions while partnering with one of the most experienced and dedicated carriers in the marketplace.

Selective is also the only insurer that directly supports your national and state independent insurance of our Big “I” members in congress and with the National Flood Insurance Program. United, we can help all independent agents have a strong voice of Flood program and you can help strengthen that voice!

Learn more about the Big “I” Flood program www.independentagent.com/Flood.

Association Update

Please Welcome These New Members to the Insurors of Tennessee!

Agency Membership

Bill McGowan & Company • Munford

Gary Maxwell Insurance Agency • Cookeville

Global Insurance Group • Knoxville

Higginbotham • Memphis

MLA Insurance, LLC • Gallatin

Neural Fetch, Inc. • Hendersonville

Nieman Insurance Group Inc • Dandridge

Shoemaker Insurance Solutions • Germantown

The Insurance Infantry LLC • Mount Juliet

Total Insurance Solutions • Chattanooga

Associate Membership

Hometown Quotes LLC • Denver, CO

Service Guarantee and Surety Company • Melville, NY

Welcome Sharon Nettles

Insurors of Tennessee recently hired Sharon Nettles as Member Engagement and Events Manager. Sharon Nettles is an experienced Event and Membership Coordinator with over 8 years of expertise in organizing and managing a diverse range of events, from virtual webinars to largescale expos. Her extensive background includes overseeing membership databases for nonprofit organizations, ensuring data accuracy, and driving member engagement and retention strategies.

Sharon is known for her exceptional organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and ability to execute seamless events that meet the needs of both clients and participants. She thrives on connecting people and creating experiences that foster lasting relationships within the community. Outside of her professional life, Sharon is passionate about live music and enjoys attending concerts, spending quality time with her family, and caring for her two Chihuahuas.

Association Update

Strate Insurance Group, Inc. Announces Merger

Morristown, Tenn. (Jan. 6, 2025) – Strate Insurance Group, Inc. is merging with Main Street Insurance Group, a regional risk management, insurance, and employee benefits firm. Main Street Insurance Group employs approximately 125 people, with offices in Charlotte, Fletcher, Forest City and Tryon, North Carolina, Augusta, Georgia, and now Morristown, Tennessee. Effective January 1, 2025, the merged firm will operate as “Strate Insurance Group, A Main Street Insurance Group Partner,” which underscores Strate’s commitment to remaining in the Lakeway region, while acknowledging the next generation of the firm.

“The future is bright, and I couldn’t be more excited for this next phase of growth,” said Katherine Strate Smith, president and CEO of Strate Insurance Group. “From the very beginning, our conversations with

Main Street were easy because of our shared values and commitment to doing the right thing for the customer— always. I want to be very clear: we are not being bought by an out of town national broker. This is a merger of strengths, designed to benefit our customers, bring innovation to the risk management and insurance landscape in East Tennessee, and provide growth opportunities for our team.”

Strate Insurance Group is retaining all of its team members. Customers of Strate Insurance Group will continue working with the Morristown team. There will be no changes in their policies or coverage during this transition. The Morristown office will remain on West Andrew Johnson Hwy., and the firm underscores its commitment to remaining involved in the community.

Founded in 1978 by Jack and Agnes Strate and Tom Strate, Strate Insurance Group has been a trusted risk management, insurance, and employee benefits advisory firm, providing personal service and technical expertise to its valued business and personal clients. The firm has excelled in providing the best risk management counsel and insurance solutions since 1978. In 2018, Katherine Strate Smith joined

Association Update

the organization and has worked alongside Tom to envision the next iteration of the firm.

“Merging with Main Street Insurance Group is the best next chapter for Strate Insurance Group,” said Tom Strate. “We have known and worked with the Flack family, who founded Main Street Insurance Group, for more than 10 years. They are trusted confidants, and this merger is a natural and positive progression. The Flack family shares the same values as the Strate family, and we both take our responsibility to our customers very seriously.”

He continued, “I had the good fortune to start Strate Insurance Group alongside my parents, and eight years ago welcomed my daughter, Katherine Strate Smith, to the business. Our family-owned business has been very rewarding. It is a rare accomplishment to perpetuate a family-owned business into the 3rd generation. In 2023, Katherine became the president and CEO and majority

owner. I am proud of her vision for Strate Insurance Group. She has strong instincts and an inspiring work ethic. She has chosen our new partners carefully and wisely. I am excited for the future—both for our team and our customers, who remain in trustworthy hands.”

Going forward, Katherine Strate Smith will be a partner and owner in Main Street, while Tom Strate will serve clients and find new business opportunities in an advisory role.

“We are delighted to officially welcome Strate Insurance Group into the Main Street family. This partnership exemplifies a remarkable alignment of our core values and our shared commitment to excellence,” said Chad Flack, president and partner of Main Street Insurance Group.

“This merger stands as a powerful testament to the strength of collaboration, as both organizations have evolved from a network of small-town, family-owned agencies into one of the fastest-growing firms in the Southeast. Together, we are dedicated to fostering greater opportunities for our team and enhancing the services we provide to our clients and the communities we proudly serve.”

Association Update

Together, the combined team will serve business and personal clients in East Tennessee. Both firms have expertise in manufacturing, wholesale and distribution, healthcare, nonprofit, and construction industries. Main Street’s team brings an innovative approach to employee benefits, particularly in managing self-funded health plans. More will be shared about this specialization in the future.

Swallows Insurance is Proud to Announce Gabe Colwell Has Earned CPCU Designation.

Swallows Insurance announced that Gabe Colwell has been awarded the professional insurance designation, Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU), by The Institutes. This announcement was made by Peter L. Miller, CPCU, president and chief executive officer. The Institutes are an educational organization that

confers the CPCU designation on persons who complete eight rigorous courses and examinations and meet its ethics and experience requirements. All CPCUs are required to maintain and to improve their professional knowledge, skills and competence through their commitment to The Institutes’ CPCU Code of Professional Conduct.

Gabe Colwell has been an Account Executive at Swallows Insurance since 2013. In addition to the CPCU designation, Gabe also has his MBA from MTSU, Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation through The National Alliance for Insurance Education & Research, and Associate in General Insurance (AINS) designation through The Institutes.

Gabe is originally from Smithville, TN, and he currently resides in Cookeville. He and his wife, Heather, have been married for 25 years, and they have three children, Madison, Jake, and Luke. With over twenty years of experience in the insurance industry, Gabe can take care of all insurance needs, but specializes in commercial, farm, and health insurance. Gabe has offices at both the Cookeville & Smithville locations. u

Featured Partner

INSBANK: Where Genuine Matters

Founded in 2000, INSBANK has been a cornerstone of the Nashville, Tennessee, community for over two decades. As a full-service bank, we pride ourselves on offering personalized banking solutions that go beyond transactions. Our commitment to genuine relationships and exceptional service sets us apart in the financial industry. Built by entrepreneurs, for entrepreneurs.

Our Mission

At INSBANK, our mission is to provide tailored financial solutions that meet our clients' unique needs. We believe in investing in our customers' success and building long-lasting relationships based on trust and integrity.

Our Services

• Commercial Lending: We support entrepreneurs and small business owners with customized lending solutions to help them achieve their dreams.

• Treasury Management: Our streamlined processes ensure efficient management of your day-to-day operations, saving you time and money.

• Private Client Group: We offer personalized banking services for our clients, providing dedicated bankers and customized financial solutions.

Community Involvement

INSBANK is deeply committed to the Nashville community. We actively participate in local events and support various charitable organizations, reinforcing our belief that a strong community is the foundation of a successful business.

We have partnered with the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee to create the INSBANK Philanthropic Fund. This account offers the same convenience as a typical money market account but with the added benefit of giving back to local organizations. We feature two nonprofits every six months. Our current beneficiaries are Move Inclusive Dance and Nashville Street Barbers.

Why Choose INSBANK?

We may not be the "branch on every corner" bank, but that's a good thing. At INSBANK, you're more than just a number. Our team of dedicated professionals is here to provide you with the attention and expertise you deserve. Discover a bank where genuine matters.

For more information, visit our website at insbank.com or contact us at (615) 515-2265.

VP, Relationship Manager

badams@insbank.com 615-279-9096

Andrew Smith SVP, Chief Deposit

Officer

asmith@insbank.com 615-777-2163

Jim Rieniets President and CEO

Blake Adams (not pictured)

Company Briefs

Harford Mutual Insurance Group Announces Leadership Changes

Harford Mutual Insurance Group has announced leadership changes to strengthen and support its strategic business initiatives.

Shane Crockett, CPCU, PMP, AFIS, has joined Harford Mutual as Vice President, Chief Underwriting Officer. He will be responsible for developing underwriting best practices and strategies to support all business with a focus on achieving consistent underwriting profitability. Crockett brings over 15 years of experience in insurance underwriting and leadership. Prior to joining Harford Mutual, he served as Senior Director, Underwriting and Production, Agriculture for Markel, a global specialty insurance provider. Crockett has also held roles at Liberty Mutual, including Vice President, Regional Underwriting Manager – Mid-Atlantic Region. Crockett earned his bachelor’s degree from the United States Naval Academy and his Master of Business Administration from University of Maryland, College Park.

Bryan Yekstat, CPCU, AIC, has been promoted to Assistant Vice President, Claims, responsible for ensuring efficient claims handling and enhancing operational processes. Yekstat joined Harford Mutual in 2011 as a Claims Representative. He’s held roles of increasing seniority, most recently as Director of Claims, Workers’ Compensation. Yekstat earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Salisbury University.

Matthew Summerell, CPCU, FLMI, AAI, has been promoted to Assistant Vice President, Business Development. In this role, he will lead the creation and execution of Harford Mutual’s comprehensive Business Development strategy, cultivate strategic partnerships, and advance growth opportunities across the states Harford Mutual serves. Summerell joined Harford Mutual in 2018, serving most recently as Director of Business Development. Summerell has more than 20 years of insurance industry experience, holding roles as Senior Territory Manager at Liberty Mutual Insurance and Marketing Manager at Central Mutual Insurance Company. Summerell earned his bachelor’s degree from Appalachian State University.

JM Wilson is pleased to announce the promotion of Lesley Boles to Senior Personal Lines Underwriter. She is responsible for underwriting new and renewal personal lines risks and strengthening relationships with carriers and independent insurance agents in all states that JM Wilson writes business. With an increased level

of product knowledge, Lesley is a leader and resource to other underwriters in her department. In January 2023, Lesley joined JM Wilson as a Personal Lines Underwriter. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Grand Valley State University, where she double majored in Finance and Marketing. She has further enhanced her expertise by obtaining her CIC and CISR.

JM Wilson is pleased to announce the addition of Paige Henley as Assistant Transportation Underwriter. In this role, she is responsible for providing vital support to underwriters with new and renewal public and business auto risks in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. Prior to joining JM Wilson, Paige gained valuable experience in the mortgage industry as a processor. She holds an Associate of Arts degree from Trident Technical College.

Erie Insurance Included on Forbes ‘America’s Best Large Employers 2025’ List

Erie Insurance has been recognized on the Forbes list of “America’s Best Large Employers 2025.” This prestigious award is presented in collaboration with Statista, the worldleading statistics portal and industry rankings provider. Forbes and Statista selected “America’s Best Large Employers 2025” through an independent survey from a sample of over 200,000 U.S. employees working for companies employing at least 1,000 people within the United States.

“Erie Insurance is honored to be recognized on the Forbes list of ‘America’s Best Large Employers 2025’ and we’re proud of our culture at ERIE," said Sean Dugan, executive vice president, Human Resources and Corporate Services. "Since our founding in 1925, people have been at the heart of everything we do. We believe that when our employees thrive, our company thrives, and this national recognition is a testament to that philosophy."

More than 6.5 million evaluations were considered as part of the industry rankings and final scores were based on both personal evaluations from employees and public surveys. In addition to this recognition, Erie Insurance also appears on Forbes lists of America’s Best Companies, America’s Best Insurance Companies and America’s Best-In-State Employers.

Acuity Named a Top Company for Claims Service By CRASH Network Report Card

Acuity is recognized as one of the top three insurers in the country for claims service in the 2025 CRASH Network

JM Wilson Promotion

Company Briefs

Insurer Report Card. The company earned a place on the National Honor Roll, receiving an impressive A- grade for its commitment to quality claims handling.

The CRASH Network survey gathered feedback from over 1,000 collision repair shops nationwide. In the survey, repair shop owners praised Acuity, with comments such as, “cares about fixing cars properly” and “fast and very caring.” These testimonials reflect the company’s dedication to delivering top-notch service and ensuring timely, high-quality repairs.

According to the CRASH Network, what sets highly graded companies like Acuity apart is their refusal to pressure repair shops into cutting corners or using subpar parts to save costs. Their efficient claims process and experienced personnel help speed up repairs and minimize delays, and their adherence to automaker-recommended repair procedures ensures the highest levels of safety and quality.

Acuity also attained the CRASH Network’s top ranking in the Great Lakes Region and a top three spot in the Plains and Rocky Mountain Regions. The insurer also earned a remarkable 96% claims satisfaction rating in surveys of customers who filed a claim with Acuity in 2024.

CRC Hires Daniela Mills

CRC Group welcomes Daniela Mills as National Property Practice Group Director. Mills will support the CRC Property team on a nationwide basis. She joins CRC from a global insurance brokerage firm and brings more than two decades of industry experience to the role. Mills brings exceptional leadership and extensive experience in designing and structuring complex property insurance programs, particularly for clients with significant catastrophe exposures. Her experience across industries such as real estate, retail, manufacturing, construction, and telecommunications positions her as a strategic partner in navigating the challenges of global, large-scale placements. "Daniela’s respected and accomplished career in retail insurance provides her with a deep understanding of the needs of our retail partners and insureds, ensuring CRC’s expertise continues to resonate with clients," said Chris Carlson, CRC Commercial Solutions Chief Operating Officer. "We are excited to welcome her and look forward to seeing her leadership impact across the organization." Mills will oversee strategic initiatives to expand CRC’s capabilities, develop innovative property products, and foster professional growth within the group. u

Young Agent Committee- 2025

YA Director & Collegiate Relations Chair

Clark Kelman

Page, Chaffin & Riggins Ins., Cordova

Vice Chair

Jonathan Peters

SouthPoint Risk, Nashville

Secretary

Clark Hasler

RSS Insurance, Chattanooga

Immediate Past Chair

Sam Howard

Griffin Insurance Agency, Kingston

Region I Representative

Miller Lane

Brandshaw and Co. Insurors, Dyersburg

Region II Representative

Justin Young

SouthPoint Risk, Nashville

Region III Representative

Toni LaBarba

Griffin Insurance Agency, Kingston

Member Engagement

Technology Chair

Jeremy Thacker

Gary Thacker Insurance, Chattanooga

InsurPAC Chair

Clark Powers

Boyle Insurance Agency, Memphis

Events Chair

Nikki Reeder

Boyle Insurance Agency, Memphis

Events Co-Chair

Whitney Breazeale-Thomas

Fox Ins.urance Group, Oak Ridge

Membership Development Chair

Mac Hill

McDaniel-Whitley, Inc., Memphis

Member at Large

Adam McPherson

Higginbotham, Memphis

Member at Large

Evans Looney

Palmer & Wallace Ins. Brokerage, Nashville

Company Liaison

Sopheary Le Liberty Mutual, Memphis

Company Liaison

Jack Grayson Grange Insurance, Nashville

Company Liaison

Jesse Lovell

LUBA Workers' Comp, Chattanooga

Company Liaison

Beth Bommarito

The Hanover Insurance Group, Nashville

Company Liaison

Bobby Kisler

Selective Insurance Company of America

Staff Liaison

Jake Smith

Insurors of Tennessee, Nashville

Socials Hosted by the Young Agents

Details of each event will be released closer to the event date.

March 13

• Chattanooga Member Social hosted by Young Agents • 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

March 26 • Jackson Member Social hosted by Young Agents • 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

March 27 • Memphis Member Social hosted by Young Agents • 4:40 - 6:30 PM

April 10-11

• 2025 Young Agents Conference • 12:00 PM Start on April 10

May 14 • Knoxville Member Social hosted by Young Agents • 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Please contact any of these Young Agent committee members regarding an event or for more information about Young Agents!

We hope to see you at the Young Agents Conference in Nashville on April 10 and 11 and at an event near you!

May 15 • Johnson City Member Social hosted by Young Agents • 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

June 5 • Nashville Member Social hosted by Young Agents • 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

June 12 • Jackson Member Social hosted by Young Agents • 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

July 16 • Memphis Member Social hosted by Young Agents • 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

July 17 • Jackson Member Social hosted by Young Agents • 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

August 13

• Knoxville Member Social hosted by Young Agents • 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

August 14 • Kingsport Member Social hosted by Young Agents • 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

August 21

• Nashville Member Social hosted by Young Agents • 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

YA

Visit the Young Agents page at the Insurors website to join the YA email list and the YA LinkedIn group.

The Women in Insurance Program, AKA "WINS", was created in early 2019. We believe that bringing women together to support one another, share ideas, and network with fellow female peers, is very important in the insurance industry. We hold WINS events throughout the year in order for women to network and gain valuable experience and knowledge from guest speakers. We're proud to have seen such amazing strides for women in our industry and we intend to keep the momentum going through our WINS program.

How Can I Get Involved?

There are a number of ways to get involved in our WINS program!

• First, we ask that you reach out to the women on staff and let them know that you are interested!

• Attend our events in your area!

• Reach out to other women in our industry to encourage involvement in WINS!

• Join our exclusive WINS group on LinkedIn -> Join Here

• Follow Insurors of Tennessee on social media and subscribe to our email blasts to stay up-to-date on all things WINS!

AGENTS OF Exploration

Tech solutions for you and your customers—now and into the future

At Progressive, we’re always thinking about ways to push our business forward with innovations like our leading telematics solutions: Snapshot® for personal auto and Snapshot ProView® and Smart Haul® for your commercial customers. Plus, we’ve rolled out a multi-product quoting platform that makes bundling easier than ever.

With breakthroughs like these and more, you can feel confident that while you’re focused on your customers, we’re focused on what’s ahead.

Tech leadership—it’s in our DNA.

TO LEARN MORE

Search for us online at Agents of Progressive, Progressive Connect, or Progressive Appointment.

Education Calendar

The Insurors of Tennessee offers education opportunities to member agents across a wide range of insurance specialties that satisfy individuals at many different experience levels. If you are looking to further your career, seeking a professional designation, or need to satisfy continuing education requirements, check out the variety of courses available. Additional course options and details of each class can be found online or by contacting Teresa Durham at tdurham@insurors.org or 615.515.2607.

Register for CISR & CIC at www.insurors.org under education. Classes with (*) have option for in person or webinar event.

CISR

3/20 Commercial Casualty I Webinar

4/14 Insuring Personal Residential Property Webinar

5/8 Other Personal Lines Solutions Webinar

6/12 Commercial Casualty II Wevinar

CIC

4/23-24 Agency Management * Nashville

5/19-20 Commercial Property * Nashville

6/25-26 Personal Lines* Nashville

Other

3/5-6 Ruble Graduate Seminar Nashville

3/12 Building A Solid Producer Nashville Compensation Plan

4/10-11 2025 Young Agents Conference Nashville

Additional courses for designation programs are offered on-demand at your own pace and as live webinars.

The National Alliance for Insurance Education & Research is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be addressed to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors, 150 Fourth Avenue North, Suite 700, Nashville, TN, 37219-2417. Website: www.nasba.org. Advanced Curriculum Rating = 20 CPE Credits. For more information regarding administrative policies such as complaint and refund, please contact our offices at 800-633-2165.

Additional Courses

Additional courses are available On-Demand and as Live webinars at the IIABA Virtual University *check the VU site for course offerings, CE and pricing (independentagent.com/vu)

From The National Alliance (www.scic.com)

Choose from the following programs CIC, CRM, CISR, CPRM, CSRM, Dynamics, RGS, MEGA, PROFOCUS, WTH, Intro, Producer School, Ethics, Flood and other. Choose by topic, location, delivery method and/or date.

From The Institutes (ceu.com/customer/insurors-tn )

Insurors of Tennessee has partnered with CEU, powered by The Institutes, to provide you with relevant and convenient online insurance continuing education (CE) courses. Through our partnership with CEU, you will enjoy a 35% discount on any of CEU’s relevant, practical courses when you log in. More than 150 course topics.

ABEN Webcasts

(insurors.aben.tv)

The below are examples of the webcast classes that are available at insurors.aben.tv. View website for more.

2025 Is Set to Be a Year of Shopping and Switching

BY Will Jones, IA Editor-In-Chief

While sky-high premiums prompted half of U.S. auto insurance customers to shop for a new plan last year, few alternatives meant most stayed put. That's all about to change.

If 2024 was the year of sky-high insurance premiums, 2025 is shaping up to be the year when everyone shops for a lower rate, according to J.D. Power's December 2024 “Insurance Intelligence Report."

In July 2024, auto insurance rates were up 11% year over year, according to the report, while homeowners and renters insurance costs exceeded the rate of inflation, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. As a result, the shopping rate climbed to “a record high of 6.8% through the second quarter of 2024, up from 5.9% two years ago," said Breanne Armstrong, director of insurance intelligence at J.D. Power.

With rates rising across the board, nearly half (49%) of U.S. auto insurance customers said they were shopping for a new plan. By the third quarter of 2024, auto insurance shopping rates had reached a record high. However, with virtually every carrier increasing rates, shoppers had very few alternatives and many stayed put.

Now, that's all about to change.

“The insurance rate inflation everyone experienced over the past two years was driven by a perfect storm of increased frequency and severity of damage to property, increased costs in the raw materials needed to conduct those repairs, and longer repair cycle times, all of which increased costs for insurers," the report said. “Thanks in part to all the premium increases introduced to combat this trend, however, property & casualty insurance profitability started to improve throughout the second half of the year."

peaking at 4.6% in August. As more competition starts to heat up between carriers, switch rates may increase further in 2025.

Meanwhile, usage-based insurance (UBI) is poised for broader adoption. While only 17% of drivers currently opt for UBI— double the rate from eight years ago—the percentage of customers being offered UBI dipped in 2024, with just 15% of shoppers being given UBI options, down from 22% in 2023.

However, UBI participants report significantly higher satisfaction, averaging 64 points more than non-UBI

customers on a 1,000-point scale. Increasing shopping trends could signal a surge in UBI adoption in the future.

“That will likely make 2025 a major tipping point for policy shopping and switching," the report explained. “After the past three years spent shoring up their operations and scaling back growth initiatives, insurers are going to be on the hunt for new customers in 2025 and all indications are that customers will be more than willing to comparison shop their policies and jump ship for a better rate."

Policy shopping activity hit a record high of 13.8% in September, according to J.D. Power's quarterly LIST Report for the third quarter of 2024. Since then, shopping rates have stayed elevated, hitting 13.8% again in October and dipping slightly to 13.6% in November. Switch rates also increased,

“The bump in customer satisfaction that's coming from UBI, combined with a surge in rate-driven shopping and switching activity and continued interest among insurers in courting new customers, have set the stage for a significant jump in UBI adoption," the report said.

While the trends shaping up in 2025 could spell some relief for consumers who have been suffering significant rate increases for the better part of three years, they will make for a volatile year for carriers, the report predicted. “With costs not likely getting any lower and customers consistently demanding more—and voting with their wallets to get it—we're likely to see a price battle emerge throughout the year," the report said. u

Meetings- Mark Your Calendars

Young Agents Conference

April 10-11, 2025

Big "I" Legislative Conference

April 30 - May 2, 2025

Insurors of Tennessee 132nd Annual Convention

October 11-14, 2025

Big "I" Fall Conference

October 2025

Hilton Green Hills

Nashville

Link to registration...

The Westin (downtown)

Washington, DC

Hilton- Memphis

Memphis

Grand Hyatt

Nashville

Upcoming Young Agent and WINS Events

To receive regular updates on events sign up for YA or WINS emails and join their LinkedIn groups.

March 13 • Chattanooga Member Social hosted by Young Agents • 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Sponsored by ICW Insurance Group - Join us for an afternoon of networking with association members and partners!

Location: Oddstory Brewing Co. www.oddstorybrewing.co/central

For more information regarding this event contact Sharon Nettles at (615) 515-2605 or snettles@insurors.org

March 26 • Jackson Member Social hosted by Young Agents • 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Location: TBD

For more information regarding this event watch the Events Calendar at insurors.org or contact Jake Smith at jsmith@insurors.org

April 10-11 • Young Agents Conference • WINS will be hosting and event during the Conference. Please watch for more details to be released closer to the event and plan to join!

INDEPENDENT MEMBER AGENCIES PREMIUMS WRITTEN

2020 PROFIT SHARING DISTRIBUTED TO MEMBERS

INDEPENDENT AGENCY START-UPS ASSISTED $400M+ 140+ 20+ 5 $4M $3M

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WAYS TO EARN ON A SINGLE BOOK

Anderson, Bedford, Bledsoe, Blount, Bradley, Campbell, Cannon, Carter, Chester, Claiborne, Clay, Cocke, Coffee, Crockett, Cumberland, Davidson, Decatur, Dekalb, Dickson, Fayette, Fentress, Franklin, Giles, Grainger, Greene, Grundy, Hamblen, Hamilton, Hancock, Hardeman, Hardin, Hawkins, Haywood, Henderson, Hickman, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnson, Knox, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Lewis, Lincoln, Loudon, Macon, Marion, Marshall, Maury, McMinn, McNairy, Meigs, Monroe, Moore, Morgan, Overton, Perry, Pickett, Polk, Putnam, Rhea, Roane, Rutherford, Scott, Sequatchie, Sevier, Shelby, Smith, Sullivan, Tipton, Trousdale, Unicoi, Union, Van Buren, Warren, Washington, Wayne, White, Williamson, and Wilson

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