WASHINGTON, D.C., Sept. 28, 2015 — The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) today released the following statement by Bob Rusbuldt, Big “I” president and CEO, regarding the retirement announcement by Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives John Boehner (R-Ohio).
“I have known John Boehner for more than 25 years and I can attest to his incredible dedication to the country, free market principles, economic growth and opportunity, and fairness. John Boehner is a small businessman at heart. As the former president of a small business in Ohio, he intuitively knows the challenges and opportunities all small business people have, including independent agents and brokers.
“IIABA awarded John our national ‘Legislator of the Year’ award in 1998, before he was Speaker because he has always been a great leader and ally for independent agents and the small business community. John Boehner has fought for independent agents and small business on many occasions over the years – during financial services reform, TRIA, NARAB, on taxes (fiscal cliff), flood insurance and on numerous other issues. We were always honored to have John Boehner address our Legislative Conference, whether as Speaker, Majority Leader, Conference Chairman, or Minority Leader.
“Speaker Boehner will be studied in American history for generations to come for his vital leadership and accomplishments on behalf of our nation. He is also a major part of Big ‘I’ history as he led the way in Congress and forged many laws that impact the daily businesses and lives of independent agents and brokers.
“Speaker Boehner has the eternal gratitude of independent agents and brokers and the Big ‘I.’ We wish him all the best on his bright future.”
Founded in 1896, the Big “I” is the nation’s oldest and largest national association of independent insurance agents and brokers, representing a network of more than 250,000 agents, brokers and their employees nationally. Its members are businesses that offer customers a choice of policies from a variety of insurance companies. Independent agents and brokers offer all lines of insurance—property, casualty, life, health, employee benefit plans and retirement products. Web address: www.independentagent.com.