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2014 Press Releases

The Big "I" provides numerous resources to assist consumer and general business writers, editors and producers with insurance-related or small business-related stories. IIABA has knowledgeable staff sources as well as hundreds of local agent spokespeople located in communities across the nation who are available to answer questions from reporters and serve as news sources on insurance-related consumer issues.

Holiday Travel Kicks Off Treacherous Winter Driving Season

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 18, 2014—Poor road conditions have cost consumers and the insurance industry at least $27 billion over the last five years, according to a 2014 survey commissioned by Trusted Choice® and the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”). The survey also reveals that half of car owners have experienced damage to their vehicles as a result of potholes. As millions of Americans take to the roads for the holidays, Trusted Choice® urges drivers to be cautious now and throughout the winter.

Terrorism Insurance Bill & NARAB II Die in the Senate

WASHINGTON, D.C., Dec. 17, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) today released the following statement by Robert Rusbuldt, Big “I” president & CEO, regarding the U.S. Senate’s failure to pass S. 2244, the “Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2014” and the National Association of Registered Agents and Brokers (NARAB II) legislation.

Big “I” Praises House Passage of Terrorism Insurance Bill & NARAB II

WASHINGTON, D.C., Dec. 10, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) today praised the U.S. House of Representatives for passing an amendment in the nature of a substitute to S. 2244, the “Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2014.” The legislation would extend the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act (TRIA) program for six years and includes the National Association of Registered Agents and Brokers (NARAB II) legislation that would establish a permanent NARAB.

Big “I” Comments on House Passage of Insurance Capital Standards Act of 2014

WASHINGTON, D.C., Dec. 10, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big 'I') applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for passing S. 2270, the 'Insurance Capital Standards Clarification Act of 2014.' The legislation was passed by the full House this evening by unanimous consent.

InVEST Introduces New Board Member Representing National African American Insurance Association

ALEXANDRIA, Virginia, Dec. 4, 2014 – InVEST, the insurance industry’s premier classroom-to-career education program, is pleased to announce that Clarissa A. Preston, CIC, APIR, MBA, has joined its national board. Preston is a government affairs advisor with Adams and Reese LLP, and works from their Baton Rouge, Louisiana office. She also serves on the National African American Insurance Association (NAAIA) board of directors and as Louisiana Surplus Line Association executive director.

Big “I” Provides Congressional Testimony on Private Alternatives to NFIP

WASHINGTON, D.C., Nov. 19, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) today submitted testimony before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance at a hearing entitled, “Opportunities for a Private and Competitive Sustainable Flood Insurance Market.”

Big “I” PAC Scores 93% Congressional Victory Rate

WASHINGTON, D.C., Nov. 6, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) today announced that its political action committee, InsurPac, distributed more than $1.8 million in the 2014 campaign cycle resulting in a 93% congressional victory rate.

Big “I” and Future One Release 2014 Agency Universe Findings

ALEXANDRIA, Virginia, Nov. 5, 2014 — The number of independent insurance agencies has remained stable, the system as a whole is dynamic and business conditions continue to improve, according to the 2014 Agency Universe Study (AUS).

ITC Joins Agents Council for Technology

ALEXANDRIA, Virginia, Oct. 27, 2014 —Insurance Technologies Corporation (ITC) is the newest company partner of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America’s Agents Council for Technology (ACT).

Georgia Agent is IIABA Young Agent of the Year

ALEXANDRIA, Virginia, Oct. 23, 2014 —The National Young Agents Committee (YAC) of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) presented the inaugural Outstanding Young Agent of the Year award to Kelli Dean of the Young Agents Committee of the Independent Insurance Agents of Georgia (IIAG). Dean is vice president of Physicians Insurance Services, an Athens-based independent insurance agency specializing in medical professional liability insurance.

Have a Safe Halloween from Trusted Choice®

ALEXANDRIA, Virginia, Oct. 21, 2014 — Halloween is less than two weeks away and many consumers may not realize how frightening this scary night could really be for their personal safety, their property or their bank accounts. Trusted Choice® independent insurance agents can help families and businesses better prepare for Halloween hazards that may come in disguise or under the cloak of dark.

InVEST Introduces New Board Member

ALEXANDRIA, Virginia, Oct. 20, 2014 – InVEST, the insurance industry’s premier classroom-to-career education program, is pleased to announce that Bruce Winterburn has joined its national board. Winterburn is Vertafore vice president of industry relations.

Big “I” 2014 Best Practices Study Released

ALEXANDRIA, Virginia, Oct. 2, 2014 —The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) has released its 2014 Best Practices Study which found slowed revenue growth rates and an increase in profitability in some of the study’s six revenue groups.

South Carolina Agent Joins National Big “I” Leadership Team

ALEXANDRIA, Virginia, Sept. 30, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) is proud to announce that Jon Jensen AAI, AIP, of Spartanburg, South Carolina, was installed as the newest executive committee member at the association’s recent 2014 Fall Leadership Conference in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Big “I” Presents Company Partners Best Practices Awards

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Sept. 26, 2014 – The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) presented insurance carriers Central Insurance Companies, EMC and Travelers with the prestigious Best Practices Award of Excellence at the recent education convocation held in conjunction with the Big “I” Leadership Conference in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Georgia Earns Outstanding Big “I” Young Agents Committee Award

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Sept. 25, 2014 —The National Young Agents Committee (YAC) of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) presented its most prestigious annual award today to the Young Agents Committee of the Independent Insurance Agents of Georgia during the annual Fall Leadership Conference in Grand Rapid, Michigan.

Connecticut Agent Rises on National Association Leadership Team

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Sept. 24, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) has announced that Spencer M. Houldin of Roxbury, Connecticut, was installed as the association’s vice chairman at the recent Fall Leadership Conference in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Michigan Agent to Lead National Association

ALEXANDRIA, Virginia, Sept. 19, 2014—David Walker, AAI, CIC, LIC, ARM, CRM, was installed as the chairman of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) at the recent Big “I” Leadership Conference in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Louisiana Agent Rises on National Association Leadership Team

ALEXANDRIA, Virginia, Sept. 18, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) has announced that Randy Lanoix of Donaldsonville, Louisiana was installed as the association’s chairman-elect at the recent Big “I” Leadership Conference in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

InVEST Introduces New Board Member

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Sept. 16, 2014 – InVEST, the insurance industry’s premier classroom-to-career education program, is pleased to announce that Emily Hathcoat has joined its national board. Hathcoat is assistant vice president of corporate marketing & advertising at CNA.

Big “I” Comments on House Passage of Insurance Capital Standards Act of 2014

WASHINGTON, D.C., Sept. 16, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for passing H.R. 5461, the “Insurance Capital Standards Clarification Act of 2014.” The legislation was passed by the full House today in a procedure called “suspension of the rules” which is designed for bills that have strong, bipartisan support.

New Trusted Choice® Television Ad Hits Airwaves

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Sept. 15, 2014 – A Trusted Choice® media buy on major cable networks starts airing this month on the Fox News Channel featuring a new ad that uses humor to point out that independent insurance agents are not held captive by one company and, therefore, can find the best policy for a customer.

Big “I” Issues 2014 Excellence in Insurance Education Awards

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Sept. 15, 2014 — Big “I” independent insurance agent associations in 24 states were recently recognized by the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) with Excellence in Insurance Education (EIE) Awards at the association’s Education Convocation in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Big “I” Installs New Leadership Team

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Sept. 13, 2014 — David Walker was inaugurated today as the new chairman of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”), with Randy Lanoix as chairman-elect, Spencer Houldin as vice chairman and Jon Jensen as an at-large executive committee member. The new officers begin their terms at the conclusion of the board meeting held in conjunction with the Big “I” Fall Leadership Conference this weekend in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Trusted Choice® Social Media Campaign Raises $150,000 for Make-A-Wish®

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Sept. 12, 2014 – Trusted Choice®, the consumer branding program for independent insurance agents and brokers, exceeded its goal of 15,000 Facebook “shares” during the month of August in its fourth annual social media campaign to raise money for Make-A-Wish®.

Big “I” to Hold Leadership Conference in Grand Rapids

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Sept. 11, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) will hold the following events Sept. 12-13, 2014 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, as part of the association’s annual Leadership Conference.

IIABA to Hold “Engaging a New Workforce – Multicultural, Multigenerational, Multifaceted, Multitalented” Session

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Sept. 4, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) will hold a special session titled, “Engaging a New Workforce – Multicultural, Multigenerational, Multifaceted, Multitalented” on Friday, Sept. 12, 2014 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. EASTERN in Grand Rapids, Mich., as part of the association’s annual Leadership Conference.

Big “I” to Hold Leadership Conference in Grand Rapids

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Sept. 2, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) will hold the following events Sept. 13, 2014 in Grand Rapids, Mich., as part of the association’s annual Leadership Conference.

Chicago Public High Schools Adopt InVEST Classroom to Career Program

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Aug. 18, 2014 – InVEST, the insurance industry’s premier classroom to career education program, is excited to announce that all Chicago Public School Career and Technical Education (CTE) finance programs will now offer its curriculum to seniors. The program is a key incentive in attracting new talent to the insurance industry.

Georgia and South Carolina Teen Golfers Win 46nd Annual Trusted Choice® Big "I" National Championship

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Aug. 11, 2014 – Rachel Dai of Milton, Ga., and Keenan Huskey of Greenville, S.C., won the girls and boys divisions, respectively, at the recent 46nd Annual Trusted Choice® Big 'I' National Championship in Bridgeport, W.V.

Sold: Trusted Choice® “Chopper for Charity”

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Aug. 7, 2014 – The Trusted Choice®-themed custom motorcycle designed by the renowned Orange County Choppers to raise money for Make-A-Wish® was recently purchased by the Minnesota Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers (MIIAB) for $35,000 after two years of touring the country to raise money and awareness for the children’s charity. MIIAB will continue to display it at agent events.

Big “I” Diversity Task Force Receives ERG & Council Honors Award™

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Aug. 5, 2014—The Big “I” Diversity Task Force is a recipient of a 2014 TOP 25 ERG & Diversity Council Honors Award –the only annual national award that recognizes, honors and celebrates the outstanding contributions and achievements of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), Business Resource Groups (BRGs) and Diversity Council groups.

Trusted Choice® Raises Money for Make-A-Wish® with Social Media Campaign

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Aug. 1, 2014 –- Trusted Choice®, the consumer branding program for independent insurance agents and brokers, is proud to announce the fourth annual summer social media campaign to raise money for Make-A-Wish®. For every “share” from the Trusted Choice® Facebook page (www.facebook.com/TrustedChoice) during the month of August, Trusted Choice® will donate $10 to Make-A-Wish.

Big “I” Commends Senate Banking Committee for Examining Superstorm Sandy Response

WASHINGTON, D.C., July 30, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) today commended the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking Subcommittee on Housing, Transportation, and Community Development for conducting a hearing entitled, “The Flood Insurance Claims Process in Communities After Sandy: Lessons Learned and Potential Improvements.”

Big “I” Provides Senate Appropriations Committee with Agent Perspective on National Flood Insurance Program

WASHINGTON, D.C., July 23, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) today submitted testimony before the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security at a hearing entitled, “Insuring our Future: Building a Flood Insurance Program We Can Live With, Grow With, and Prosper With.”

Trusted Choice® Sponsorship of International Lacrosse Competition Marketing Success

ALEXANDRIA, Va., July 22, 2014 – Trusted Choice®, the consumer branding program for independent insurance agents and brokers, was the presenting sponsor of the 2014 Federation of International Lacrosse (FIL) World Lacrosse Championships July 10-19 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colo.

Big "I" Names New Director of Federal Government Affairs

WASHINGTON, D.C., July 22, 2014 — Wyatt Stewart has joined the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) Capitol Hill team as director of federal government affairs.

InVEST Awards 70 Academic Student Scholarships

ALEXANDRIA, Va., July 18, 2014 – InVEST, the insurance industry’s premier classroom to career education program, has awarded $87,000 in scholarships to 70 students pursuing insurance-related degrees, breaking previous scholarship records. The program is a key incentive in attracting new talent to the insurance industry.

Big “I” Praises U.S. Senate Passage of Bipartisan Terrorism Insurance Bill & NARAB II

WASHINGTON, D.C., July 17, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) today praised the U.S. Senate for passing S. 2244, the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2014 by Sens. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Dean Heller (R-Nev.), in a 93-4 vote. An amendment that added the National Association of Registered Agents and Brokers legislation (NARAB II) was also included in the final version of the bill.

International Lacrosse Competition Starts Tomorrow

ALEXANDRIA, Va., July 9, 2014 – Trusted Choice®, the consumer branding program for independent insurance agents and brokers, is the presenting sponsor of the 2014 Federation of International Lacrosse (FIL) World Lacrosse Championships to be held July 10-19 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colo.

Travelers Executive Presented with Dach Award

ALEXANDRIA, Va., June 8, 2014 – The InVEST program awarded Tom Davis, CPCU, Travelers underwriting officer, with the Dach Award which honors an insurance industry volunteer who has made tremendous contributions in fostering the growth and development of InVEST. The InVEST program is a key driver to attract new talent to the insurance industry.

Potomac Nationals Annual Trusted Choice® Night to Raise Funds for Make-A-Wish®

ALEXANDRIA, Va., June 27, 2014 – Trusted Choice®, the consumer branding program for independent insurance agents and brokers, and the Independent Insurance Agents of Virginia (IIAV) have teamed up with the Potomac Nationals baseball team to benefit Make-A-Wish® Mid-Atlantic with a second annual Potomac Nationals Trusted Choice Night on Sunday, June 29 at 6:05 p.m. in Woodbridge, Va.

The Motorists Insurance Group Joins Agents Council for Technology

ALEXANDRIA, Va., June 25, 2014 —The Motorists Insurance Group is the newest company partner of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America’s Agents Council for Technology (ACT).

Big “I” Praises House Committee Action on Terrorism Insurance Bill & NARAB II

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 20, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) today praised the U.S. House Committee on Financial Services for reporting H.R. 4871, the “TRIA Reform Act of 2014,” for consideration by the full House.

InVEST Program Announces Teacher of the Year

ALEXANDRIA, Va., June 20, 2014 – Adam W. Zupkoff, who teaches at Dr. Phillips High School in Orlando, Fla., is the 2014 InVEST Teacher of the Year Award. The program is a key driver to attract new talent to the insurance industry.

Half of U.S. Car Owners Report Pothole Damage to Their Vehicles

ALEXANDRIA, Va., June 19, 2014—A new national survey reveals that an alarming number of car owners have experienced damage to their vehicles as a result of potholes over the last five years. Poor road conditions have cost consumers and the insurance industry at least $27 billion in that time period, according to the survey commissioned by Trusted Choice® and the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”).

Trusted Choice® to Sponsor 2014 FIL World Lacrosse Championships

ALEXANDRIA, Va., June 18, 2014 – Trusted Choice®, the consumer branding program for independent insurance agents and brokers, is the presenting sponsor of the 2014 Federation of International Lacrosse (FIL) World Lacrosse Championships to be held July 10-19 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colo.

Big “I” Diversity Task Force is a Participating Sponsor of Women in Insurance Conference Series

ALEXANDRIA, Va., June 17, 2014—The Big “I” Diversity Task Force is a Northeast Division participating sponsor for Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation’s (IICF) 2014 Women in Insurance Global Conference Series, to be held in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York and Dallas this month.

Big “I” Comments on Draft House Terrorism Insurance Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 13, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) today released the following statement by Charles Symington, Big “I” senior vice president of external and government affairs:

Big “I” Praises U.S. Senate Committee’s Action on Bipartisan Terrorism Insurance Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 3, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) today praised the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking for reporting S. 2244, the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2014 by Sens. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Dean Heller (R-Nev.), to the full Senate for consideration.

Big “I” Provides House Financial Services Committee with Agent Perspective on Insurance Proposals

WASHINGTON, D.C., May 20, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) today submitted testimony before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance at a hearing entitled, “Legislative Proposals to Reform Domestic Insurance Policy.”

InVEST Introduces New Board Member

ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 29, 2014 – InVEST, the insurance industry’s premier classroom- to- career education program, recently announced that Wendy Sabean has joined its national board. Sabean is director of training at Safeco Insurance, a Liberty Mutual Insurance company.

The Big “I” Presents the ‘Sidney O. Smith Award’ to Illinois Agent Mike Wojcik

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 24, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) has awarded the 2013 Sidney O. Smith Award to Mike Wojcik, senior vice president and principal of The Horton Group in Chicago. The award is the association’s highest individual government affairs honor.

Big “I” Responds to HHS on Navigators

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 22, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) has submitted official written comments to the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services (HHS) on the recently proposed federal regulations regarding navigators and similar assisters under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Trusted Choice® Presents Dan Fulwider Award for Community Involvement to Mississippi Agency

ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 21, 2014 – Trusted Choice® has awarded the annual Dan Fulwider Award for Community Involvement to Ronnie Tubertini of SouthGroup Insurance Services, headquartered in Ridgeland, Miss.

Rep. McMorris Rodgers Discusses Jobs, Health Care and Taxes at Big “I” Large Agent/CEO Event

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 17, 2014 — Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Wash.), Chair of the U.S. House of Representatives Republican Conference and the fourth ranking leader in the House, recently addressed the association’s Large Agent/Broker and CEO dinner.

Big “I” Comments on Terrorism Risk Insurance Report

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 17, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) today issued the following response to a report issued by President Barack Obama’s Working Group on the Long-Term Availability and Affordability of Insurance for Terrorism Risk. The comments are by Charles Symington, Big “I” senior vice president for external and government affairs.

Young Agents Committee ‘Pays it Forward’ By Raising Scholarship Dollars for InVEST

ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 15, 2014 – The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) Young Agents Committee (YAC) raised more than $48,000 this year for InVEST, a one-of-a-kind financial literacy program that educates high school and college students about insurance, risk management and financial services. This contribution brings the InVEST scholarship fund to a program record of more than $111,000.

North Carolina’s Cloyce Anders Honored with Woodworth Memorial Award

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 14, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers (IIABA or the Big “I”) recently awarded Cloyce Anders with the Woodworth Memorial Award, the highest honor the association bestows on one of its members, during the annual Big “I” Legislative Conference.

House Majority Whip Kevin McCarthy and Rep. Steve Israel Address Big “I” Agents

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 11, 2014 — House Majority Whip Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) and Rep. Steve Israel (D-N.Y.), Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) Chairman, yesterday addressed the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) membership at the annual legislative conference breakfast. The event occurs just prior to the association’s annual Big “I” Day on Capitol Hill.

Big “I” Issues Agent Awards

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 11, 2014 —The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) this week bestowed three prestigious awards at the annual Big “I” Legislative Conference.

Big “I” Presents Young Agent and InsurPac Awards

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 10, 2014 —The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) yesterday presented numerous awards at the Annual Young Agents & InsurPac State Chairpersons Legislative Luncheon. The event was held during the annual Big “I” Legislative Conference.

Trusted Choice® and Big “I” Young Agents Committee to Host Make-A-Wish® Send-off Party

ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 10, 2014 –Trusted Choice® and the Big “I” Young Agents Committee will host the official send-off party for Wish Kid Julia on Friday, April 11, at 10 a.m. Eastern.

Rep. Steve Stivers Addresses Big “I” Young Agents & InsurPac Leadership

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 10, 2014 —Rep. Steve Stivers (R-Ohio) on Wednesday addressed the Annual Young Agents & InsurPac State Chairpersons Legislative Luncheon at the annual Big “I” Legislative Conference.

Louisiana Young Agent Receives Maurice Herndon Scholarship

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 9, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America National Young Agents Committee (YAC) welcomes Louisiana young agent Bryan L. Fontenot, AAI, CRIS, recipient of the 2014 Maurice Herndon Scholarship award, to Washington, D.C. this week for the Big “I” Legislative Conference. Fontenot is a corporate account executive with Brown & Brown of Baton Rouge.

Sen. Jon Tester is Big “I” Legislator of the Year

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 9, 2014—The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big “I”) today announced that U.S. Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont.) is the Gerald Solomon-IIABA Legislator of the Year for 2013.

Big “I” Praises House Passage of ACA Employer Mandate Relief Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 3, 2014 — The Big “I” today applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for passing H.R. 2575, the “Save American Workers Act of 2013,” by Rep. Todd Young (R-Ind.), in a bipartisan vote.

Multicultural and Diversity Marketing Expert to Address Big “I”

ALEXANDRIA, Va., March 28, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) today announced that Kelly McDonald, president of McDonald Marketing, will address the Big “I” membership on Friday, April 11, at 8:00 a.m.

Rep. Steve Israel to Address Big “I”

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 27, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) today announced that Rep. Steve Israel (D-N.Y.), chairman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), will address the association’s membership on Thursday, April 10, 2014.

Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers to Address Big “I” Large Agents/Brokers, Leadership and Industry Executives

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 19, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) today announced that Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Wash.) will address the association’s Large Agent/Broker and CEO dinner on April 10 during the Big “I” Legislative Conference.

Big “I” Applauds Senate Passage of Flood Insurance Legislation

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 13, 2014 — The Big “I” applauds the U.S. Senate for passing H.R. 3370, the “Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act of 2013,” by Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and Rep. Michael Grimm (R-N.Y.).

Sen. Michael Bennet to Address IIABA

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 12, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) today announced that Sen. Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), will address the association’s membership on Thursday, April 10, 2014.

Business Journalists Invited to Webinar on Why Insurance is Not a Commodity

ALEXANDRIA, Va., March 5, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America will host a webinar titled “How to Compete with Direct Writers in Personal Lines…Combating Low-Cost Advertising with Coverage and the Independent Agent Advantage” on Wednesday, March 12, 2014 starting at 2:00 p.m. EDT.

Big “I” Applauds House Passage of Flood Insurance Legislation

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 4, 2014 — The Big “I” applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for passing H.R. 3370, the “Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act of 2013,” by Reps. Michael Grimm (R-N.Y.) and Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) this evening under “suspension of the rules” requiring a two-thirds vote in favor.

Long-Serving Big “I” Leader Jeff Yates Retires

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 28, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America is announcing the retirement of Jeff Yates, a 39-year veteran of the association who most recently served as Agents Council for Technology (ACT) executive director. Since 1975, Yates has served in numerous capacities within the association.

House Majority Whip Kevin McCarthy to Address Big “I”

WASHINGTON, D.C., Feb. 27, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) today announced that Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), U.S. House of Representatives Majority Whip, will address the association’s membership on Thursday, April 10, 2014.

Cumberland Insurance Group Joins Trusted Choice®

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 20, 2014 – The Cumberland Insurance Group is the newest member of the Trusted Choice® consumer branding program for independent insurance agents and brokers. Cumberland, headquartered in Bridgeton, N.J., has joined 69 leading companies nationwide as a Trusted Choice® company partner.

IA Magazine Receives Redesign and Updates

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 18, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) has redesigned its member publications and website with new content and updated formats.

Big “I” to Host Political Panel Featuring Paul Begala and Tucker Carlson

WASHINGTON, D.C., Feb. 10, 2014 — Veteran Washington insiders and political commentators Paul Begala and Tucker Carlson will headline the political panel at the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) annual Legislative Conference this spring.

Big “I” Testifies Before Congress on Modernizing Insurance Regulation

WASHINGTON, D.C., Feb. 4, 2014 –The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) today testified before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance at a hearing titled, “The Federal Insurance Office’s Report on Modernizing Insurance Regulation.”

Big “I” Applauds Senate Passage of Five-Year Farm Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C., Feb. 4, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) applauds today’s passage of the Conference Report to S.954, “The Agriculture Reform, Food, and Jobs Act of 2013,” in the U.S. Senate in a 68-32 vote. The House passed the legislation in a 251-166 vote on Jan. 29.

Big “I” to Testify Before Congress on Insurance Regulation

WASHINGTON, D.C., Jan. 31, 2014 - The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”), will testify on Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2014 before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance at a hearing titled “The Federal Insurance Office’s Report on Modernizing Insurance Regulation.”

Big “I” Applauds Senate Passage of Bill on Agent Licensing and Flood Insurance

WASHINGTON, D.C., Jan 30, 2014 — The Big “I” applauds today’s U.S. Senate passage of S. 1926, the “Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act of 2013,” by Sens. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.) in a 67-32 vote.

Big “I” Applauds House Passage of Five-Year Farm Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C., Jan 29, 2014 — The Big “I” applauds today’s passage of the Conference Report to H.R. 2642, the “Federal Agriculture Reform and Risk Management Act of 2013,” in the U.S. House of Representatives in a 251-166 vote. The Senate is expected to vote on the bill next month.

Rep. Steve Stivers to Address Big “I” Young Agents & InsurPac Leadership

WASHINGTON, D.C., Jan. 23, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) today announced that Rep. Steve Stivers (R-Ohio) will address the Young Agents & InsurPac State Chairpersons Legislative Luncheon at the annual Big “I” Legislative Conference.

Make-A-Wish® and Trusted Choice® Grant 15-Year-Old Jonah’s Wish for a Skate Park

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Jan. 10, 2014 – Trusted Choice®, the consumer branding program for independent insurance agents and brokers, has teamed up with Make-A-Wish® Tri-Counties to help grant Jonah’s one true wish. The 15-year-old from Ojai, Calif. will be presented with his own skate park wish on Saturday, Jan. 11 at 12:00 p.m.

Big “I” Political Action Committee Raises More Than $1 Million in 2013

WASHINGTON, D.C., Jan. 7, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) today announced that its political action committee (PAC), InsurPac, raised a total of $1,007,668 during the 2013 calendar year.

ACT to Host Free Webinar on Electronic Policy Delivery

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Jan. 6, 2014 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America’s Agents Council for Technology (ACT) will host a free one hour webinar titled “’Best Practices’ Recommendations for Electronic Delivery of Insurance Policies to Agents & Insureds” on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. EST.