Mr. and Mrs. Agent Go to Washington

Some might say the only way to get recognized in Washington, D.C. is to scale the White House fence. Believe me, after seeing the security there on my recent trip, no one is going to just walk up to the front door and greet Mr. Bush.

I was there with about 800 agents and brokers who assembled for IIABA’s 27th National Legislative Conference earlier this month (See story page 78) and from what I gathered, their mission was rather successful.

The purpose of the event is to boost IIABA’s lobbying efforts throughout the congressional session. Along with hearing from several senators, which included John Breaux (D-La.), Bill Frist (R-Tenn.) and John Sununu (R-N.H.), attendees got to meet with their congressional representatives, network with colleagues and IIABA representatives, and tour the city.

I managed to tag along with a number of California agents up to Capitol Hill one day to meet with representatives of Congressman David Dreier (R-Calif.).

Dreier, who was involved in a vote at the time of the meeting, was represented by his legislative director.

Having worked for a former Republican Pennsylvania congressman in my college days, I’ve had the political bug for more than 20 years. Some will say you only get lip service when you step in their office, but I lean toward being an optimist, not a pessimist. Having said that, I was intrigued by the concerns of the California agents. They touched on a number of issues that are of concern to them, which includes the Golden State’s top issue, workers’ comp.

This was my first time at the IIABA event, and I admit it can be a little overwhelming at times, trying to keep up with all the meetings, knowing which are the key events to attend, etc.

While I expect no earth-shattering breakthroughs to come out of this conference, I saw the efforts of the IIABA and the many agents who attended as very professional and determined to right many of the troubling issues that our industry faces.

When all was said and done, I came away with the impressions that the event was well put together, missions were accomplished, and there may be some movement on some of the issues that we face, including medical malpractice, asbestos litigation, and continued support for the terrorism insurance bill that was signed last November.

Washington, D.C. can be a very intimidating place for many and connections are definitely part of the game. Through the efforts of the IIABA, it seems many agents and brokers have a voice in place that is sure to be heard by the President on down.

Share your thoughts with us by e-mailing me at: dthomas@insurancejournal.com.

Topics Agencies Washington