Wisconsin Insurance Agent Day at the Capitol: A Powerful Day of Advocacy
On March 12th, insurance agents from across Wisconsin gathered for Wisconsin Insurance Agent Day at the Capitol, hosted by the PIA of Wisconsin and IIAW. Those in attendance participated in a crucial opportunity to advocate for independent agents, educate policymakers, and engage in discussions that will help shape the future of insurance in our state.
Learning from Policymakers & Industry Leaders
The day kicked off at the Park Hotel with powerful remarks delivered by Senator Mary Felzkowski, a Past President of PIA and current President of the State Senate. Senator Felzkowski set the stage
of the current climate in the legislature and gave key insights into insurance issues and state
politics. Attendees then participated in a session where they learned the importance of advocacy and were equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to effectively communicate with legislators.
Senator Dianne Hesselbein, the Minority Leader of the Senate, gave an update on legislative developments from her caucus and the outlook for the ongoing session and budget. Following this, Sarah Smith from the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) delivered an update on current industry trends, the NAIC, and changes that are impacting the insurance environment in Wisconsin.
Over lunch, attendees received a detailed legislative briefing in preparation for their Capitol visits. They then headed to the Wisconsin State Capitol for scheduled meetings with their state representatives and senators. These face-to-face discussions provided a valuable opportunity for legislators to hear directly from their agent constituents about the challenges facing insurance agents and their clients.
Key Issues Discussed
Agents focused on these primary issues during their meetings at the Capitol:
- Assignment of Benefits (AOB) – Attendees discussed potential legislation that would prohibit insureds from assigning post-loss insurance benefits under residential and commercial property policies. The proposed changes aim to combat fraud, reduce litigation costs, streamline claims processing, and protect policyholders from predatory contractors.
- Third-Party Litigation Funding (TPLF) – Agents urged lawmakers to support increased transparency and oversight of litigation financing. With billions invested in commercial litigation and concerns over foreign influence, greater regulation is needed to prevent rising loss costs and insurance premium hikes.
- Catastrophe Savings Accounts – Attendees voiced strong support for the proposal to create tax-advantaged catastrophe savings accounts. These accounts would help policyholders manage out-of-pocket expenses following natural disasters, providing financial resilience for Wisconsin homeowners.
- The Hard Market – Agents spent time educating lawmakers about the ongoing hard market, what is influencing price increases, and why they might be hearing complaints from their constituent policyholders.
Thank You for Making a Difference
PIA extends its deepest gratitude to all attendees, speakers, and legislators who participated in Wisconsin Insurance Agent Day at the Capitol. Our agent attendees’ voices are essential in shaping the policies that impact our industry and clients. If you were unable to attend, we encourage you to stay engaged, reach out to your representatives, and join us in the future as we continue to advocate for independent agents and the IA channel in Wisconsin.