President's Message

IA&B IS YOUR VOICE

In this issue, you’ll hear from our staff lobbyist, John Savant, about the legislative issues we are currently working on. I’d like to weigh in as well.

IA&B’s advocacy efforts are often behind-the-scenes work. Our team is constantly lobbying in Harrisburg, Annapolis, and Dover to ensure our members are protected. The independent insurance agent isn’t always understood, or considered, when new legislation is drafted. Often, this legislation can be very detrimental to your business (learn more beginning on page 14). That’s where we step in. Our singular goal in the advocacy area is to ensure that you can sell insurance as easily as possible.

I also want to remind you that advocacy efforts aren’t always in the state capitol buildings. Our relationships with the insurance departments in our three states are extremely solid, a concerted effort that has taken several years to build. When we reach out to our regulators with concerns, they know who we are, and they listen. And, just as often as we reach out to them, they consistently come to us for guidance about the independent agent.

Finally, insurance carrier advocacy is equally important. IA&B is the go-between when carrier/agent issues get a little touchy. We are respected by companies, and our voice carries weight when we need to assert agent protection.

This three-pronged advocacy effort is one of the least noticed, yet biggest impacts, of IA&B membership. Unfortunately, no one else spends this time and effort protecting the independent insurance agent. As you go about your day-to-day business, please know that IA&B has your back through our strong advocacy efforts. We are your voice in the dog-eat-dog world we live in.

Onward and upward,Jason F. Ernest, IA&B President & CEO