New director of Federal Insurance Office called ‘smart, competent’

Michael McRaith, insurance director at the Illinois Department of Insurance, was named the first leader of the Federal Insurance Office (FIO).  Read Story

N.C. man accused of filing multiple claims for same vehicle damage

A Raleigh, N.C., man was arrested and charged in connection with the filing of vandalism claims with multiple insurance companies for the same vehicle damage.  Read Story

Boehner scheduled to address Big I in D.C. April 14

John Boehner, speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, is scheduled to address the 2011 Big I Legislative Conference & Convention at 8:30 a.m. April 14.  Read Story

Life insurer using Internet in quest for 3,500 new insurance agents

A New York, N.Y.-based insurance company launched a website providing information about careers in life insurance and financial services in its attempt to hire 3,500 new insurance agents this year.  Read Story

After five-year decline, insurance M&A activity heats up

The number of insurance mergers and acquisitions increased last year, especially for insurance service providers and distribution markets, indicating a shift in the market, a new study says.  Read Story

Jones using Blue Shield’s rate hike cancellation to lobby for law

California Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones, saying he was “pleased” that Blue Shield of California withdrew its recent rate increase, used the opportunity to again appeal for regulatory authority over health insurance rates in the state.  Read Story

Bill would raise minimum driver’s license age, lower auto claims

A bill that would provide driver safety grants to states with graduated driver licensing (GDL) laws meeting certain minimum requirements was introduced to the U.S. Senate March 9.  Read Story

Pa. man, Mich. advisor linked to alleged $45 million Ponzi scheme

A Pennsylvania man and a financial advisor in Michigan have been accused of establishing a Ponzi scheme that allegedly defrauded more than 600 clients of $45 million over three years.  Read Story

Obama’s lawyers say there’s no need to rush final health reform ruling

The U.S. Justice Department, speaking for the Obama Administration, is in no rush for the U.S. Supreme Court to rule in a challenge to the federal health reform law.  Read Story

Kaiser tops again in Maryland-D.C.-Virginia health plan satisfaction results

The Kaiser Foundation Health Plan ranked highest for the third straight year in an annual survey of member satisfaction in the Maryland-Washington, D.C.,-Virginia region.  Read Story