Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler rejected the latest health-insurance rate-increase request by Regence BlueShield and its related companies. The increase was to take effect Jan. 1.

President Obama’s compromise on extending “Bush-era” tax cuts is good in the sense that folks finally know what to expect, at least for the next two years. That’s if Congress approves the plan, which appears somewhat likely.  Read Story

Acting insurance commissioner to talk at Dec. 16 NAIFA-Baltimore event

The Baltimore chapter of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors will hold its annual legislative breakfast Thursday, Dec. 16, at the Radisson Hotel at Cross Keys in Baltimore, Md.  Read Story

Obama Administration, not new Congress, to alter insurance in 2011

The Obama Administration, not Congress, could dramatically affect insurance and its regulation in 2011, according to a panel of industry expert.  Read Story

Passport Health Plan fired two top executives Tuesday — a change Gov. Steve Beshear had demanded after a sharply critical state auditor’s report.

ACE American Insurance Co. earlier this year paid $221,000 in fines to settle allegations filed in Texas, accusing the insurer of making late payments and improperly denying claims in some workers’ compensation cases.  Read Story

WASHINGTON (Dow Jones)–U.S. securities regulators may move to update a 30-year-old broker-dealer custody rule that requires auditors to ensure the books are accurate, Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman ...  Read →  Read Story

Life insurance applications decline for sixth straight month

U.S life insurance application activity fell slightly in November, marking the sixth straight month of declines.  Read Story

CHEYENNE, Wyo. — Wyoming took a first step on Monday on a plan to provide health insurance to the 86,000 people in the state who have none.

Obama, Republicans cut deal on tax cuts, estate tax, worker benefits

President Barack Obama said he has compromised with Republicans, serving up an extension on Bush-era tax cuts in return for more unemployment benefits and other economic recovery steps.  Read Story