The plight of people who lose their insurance and then get sick is one of the most appealing arguments for health care reform. And the White House really took advantage of it, soliciting tear-jerking stories from responsible folks who played by the rules and who can’t get insurance through no fault of their own.  Read Story

U.S. House readies health reform law repeal effort after delay

The U.S. House of Representatives will begin debate Jan. 18 on an effort by Republican representatives to repeal the health reform law approved by a Democratic majority last year.  Read Story

U.S. life, annuity sectors improve, but face obstacles

Although the rating outlook on the U.S. life/annuity sector changed to stable from negative in 2010, A.M. Best says challenges remain for this year.  Read Story

Councilor calls firefighters ‘selfish’ for rejecting cheaper coverage

Plattsburgh, N.Y., Councilor James Calnon said a group of city firefighters are needlessly costing taxpayers by not adopting a new self-funded health insurance plan.  Read Story

California insurance agent charged with embezzling, stealing premiums

A Hughson, Calif., insurance agent-broker was charged with stealing thousands of dollars in premiums from 11 clients, some of which were senior citizens.  Read Story

Insurer’s board members urged to resign after ‘inappropriate’ golf trip

Board members of Pinnacol Assurance, a state-chartered workers' compensation insurance company in Colorado, were asked to resign after participating in a $300,000 golf trip at Pinnacol’s expense.  Read Story

Virginia insurance regulator’s actions against agents, insurers

The following summaries are based on information obtained from the Virginia State Corporation Commission Bureau of Insurance.  Read Story

Maryland insurance regulators act against agents, insurers

The following cases involving agents and carriers are summarized based on information obtained from the Maryland Insurance Administration.  Read Story

Baltimore SFSP, NAIFA chapters set estate, exit strategy CE session for Jan. 20

The Baltimore chapters of the Society of Financial Service Professionals and the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors will host a continuing education event Jan. 20 at 8 a.m. at the Conference Center at Sheppard Pratt in Towson, Md.  Read Story

Corbett names ‘smart, creative attorney’ Pa. insurance commissioner

Pennsylvania Gov.-elect Tom Corbett nominated a partner in the Saul Ewing law firm and former lawyer in the Pennsylvania Insurance Department to become the state’s next insurance commissioner.  Read Story