IBA West Blue Ribbon Conf. Sails Along

A discussion on the state of the California workers’ comp market, the industry’s hard market, and other topics highlighted the opening round of discussions at the 2003 IBA West Blue Ribbon Conference in Hawaii on Monday.

Ken Bollier, past president of California’s State Compensation Insurance Fund

Ken Bollier, past president of California’s State Compensation Insurance Fund, spoke candidly on the current situation facing the Golden State in the workers’ comp market. Bollier noted it would be a while before any changes would be seen in the workers’ comp market, but added in his opinion, that State Fund is very healthy.

Jeff Post, president and CEO of Fireman’s Fund

Jeff Post, president and CEO of Fireman’s Fund, spoke on the industry’s hard market and all of the forces that have come together to create the current situation the industry is in, referring to it as “The Perfect Storm.” According to Post, at no time in the industry have all these conditions come together to create the current market that everyone is seeing.

The first day also included a panel discussion which looked at federal regulation of insurance, moderated by IBA West lawyer Steve Young. Post, and Arkansas insurance commissioner Mike Pickens were among the guests.

The event continues through Thursday.

Topics California Workers' Compensation