








AFTER 37 YEARS OF FAITHFUL SERVICE TO OUR INDUSTRY, JEFF ALBRIGHT RETIRES D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 4

L O U I S I A N A A G E N T

AFTER 37 YEARS OF FAITHFUL SERVICE TO OUR INDUSTRY, JEFF ALBRIGHT RETIRES D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 4
L O U I S I A N A A G E N T
Benjamin Albright
Chief Executive Officer, President balbright@iiabl.com (225) 236-1357
Karen Kuylen
Director of Accounting & Finance kkuylen@iiabl.com (225) 236-1353
Jamie Newchurch
Director of Insurance Programs jnewchurch@iiabl.com (225) 236-1350
Kathleen O'Regan
Director of Communications & Events koregan@iiabl com (225) 236-1360
Karson Roberts
Communications & Events Administrator kroberts@iiabl.com (225) 236-1351
Lyra Roberts
E&O Administrator lyra.roberts@iiaba.net (225) 236-1352
This article honors Jeff Albright’s 37-year legacy as IIABL CEO, highlighting his dedication, legislative advocacy, industry leadership, and personal impact. His successor reflects on Jeff’s mentorship, unwavering support, and profound influence on independent insurance agents.
After 37 years of dedicated service as CEO of IIABL, my father, Jeff Albright, is retiring. His leadership has been more than extraordinary—it has been a profound gift to the association, the independent insurance industry in Louisiana, and to me personally. His unwavering dedication, passion, and vision have influenced the professional lives of countless agents and their businesses. Under Jeff’s guidance, IIABL has been a relentless advocate for independent insurance agents.
Some people know him best for his tireless efforts in government affairs which have resulted in meaningful legislative advancements, including crucial protections around certificates of insurance and ensuring agency ownership of expirations amongst many others. Jeff shouldered the often unenviably heavy burden of representing insurance agents at the Louisiana legislature, and his efforts have been a bulwark for agents in a state where the insurance and legal environment can be a challenge, to say the very least.
Others may remember his career as an unwavering champion for agents in broader arenas. At the Louisiana Department of Insurance, he has fought for policies that empower and protect independent agents. In conversations with insurance carriers, even the tough ones, he has stood firm, ensuring fairness and collaboration. Wherever agents needed a voice, Jeff was there, representing them with courage and conviction.
For many members, though, Jeff’s legacy will be much more personal. He was always generous in sharing his time and expertise with IIABL members. Whether answering complex regulatory questions or simply providing reassurance during difficult moments, his deep knowledge and genuine kindness have been a lifeline for so many. Members could always count on him—not just for answers, but for understanding and unwavering support, and I’d be shocked if it took two hands to count the number of times a member had to wait more than a day or so for a returned phone call from Jeff. He always made time for members.
Continued from page 6
On a personal level for me, stepping into the role of CEO is both an honor and a challenge, made so much easier by the selfless way my father has prepared me for this transition. Over the last few years, he has been patient, he has been wise, and he has worked hard to position me to step into the role at the office, at the department, at the legislature, and in the industry. His belief in me and his gentle guidance have been a testament to the kind of leader—and father—he is.
Jeff Albright’s legacy is one of dedication, expertise, and an unshakable commitment to the success of independent insurance agents. As I take on the responsibility of continuing his work, I do so with a full heart, immense respect for the foundation he has built, and a determination to honor the values he has exemplified.
To my father, mentor, and predecessor: Thank you for everything. Your impact is immeasurable, and your love and guidance will remain with me every step of the way.
Some companies complicate workers’ compensation with fancy gimmicks and unclear incentives. Stonetrust offers accurate, up-front pricing to get you from point A to point B with no drops or delays. Experience exceptional and personalized service with Stonetrust every time.
RATED AEXCELLENT
EVERY STEP OF THE WAY.
Here’s how our members and local chapters shone in 2024:
independent Insurance Agents of Baton Rouge
• Membership: 107 members
• Events: 6 fabulous events, raising funds and giving back to the community through initiatives like the Trusted Choice Disaster Relief Fund, Junior League Diaper Drive, and Pat’s Coats for Kids
• Attendance: 534 attendees total!
• Event Highlights: From the thrilling TopGolf Tournament to the lively Fall Social, IIABR truly knocked it out of the park in 2024!
independent Insurance Agents of Greater New orleans
• Membership: 74 members
• Events: 6 exciting events with 470 total attendees. IIAGNO proudly contributed $2,500 to the Tensey Pricer Memorial Scholarship in honor of the late Tensey Pricer, whose dedication and impact left a lasting legacy on our association.
• Event Highlights: From engaging Town Hall Meetings to the festive Christmas Luncheon, IIAGNO had an incredible year, full of fun and meaningful connections.
independent Insurance Agents of shreveport-bossier
• Membership: 32 agency members
• Events: 4 impactful events with 140 attendees total.
• Event Highlights: Their Lunch and Learn series provided invaluable insights while keeping attendees engaged and informed.
AT THE HEART OF IIABL’S SUCCESS ARE OUR INCREDIBLE 322 MEMBERS, WHO MAKE EVERYTHING WE DO POSSIBLE. WE ARE SO THANKFUL FOR THEIR DEDICATION AND CONTRIBUTIONS TO OUR ASSOCIATION.
We proudly hosted our first-ever Women in Insurance Conference, a smashing success we can’t wait to reprise on April 3-4, 2025 at the Hilton Baton Rouge.
The IIABL Insure and Sizzle Cook-Off brought our community together in a deliciously fun way that left us all wanting seconds.
Our Young Agents Conference drew 250 attendees to New Orleans’ Royal Sonesta for an unforgettable networking and learning experience.
The Wild West Convention at Sandestin’s Hilton was nothing short of spectacular, with over 700 attendees saddling up for a great time.
Our Young Agents Cornhole Tournament proved to be a highlight, mixing friendly competition with camaraderie.
Unforgettable Experiences: Whether it was learning, networking, eating, or even tossing a cornhole bag, we made memories that will last a lifetime.
This year, we filed over 2,000 hours of Continuing Education credits, helping our members stay ahead in the industry. From our standout speakers to innovative courses, the knowledge was flowing! Attendees gained valuable insights from industry leaders like Will Green, Tim Temple, and our dynamic Legislative Tour with Jeff & Ben Albright.
Many of our premier events, such as the Young Agents Conference, Women in Insurance Conference, and Annual Convention, featured CE-certified sessions, ensuring attendees left not only inspired but also more informed.
26 EVENTS TOTAL 2,450 ATTENDEES TOTAL
This bill establishes good faith and fair dealing standards in the claims process, reforms bad faith statutes without reducing penalties, combines two statutes, introduces a cure period, defines timeframes, and requires written proof of loss.
This bill reforms good faith and fair dealing standards in the claims process, combining statutes and introducing written proof of loss, cure periods, and timeframes. It also includes a 3-year rule reform (not a repeal), allowing insurers to adjust deductibles and nonrenew up to 5% of policies annually, with Commissioner Temple setting a parish limit of 5%. New policies issued after 8/1/2024 are excluded.
This bill introduces a file-and-use rating system to streamline rate approval processes. It retains the department's authority to review and disapprove rates if they are not actuarially justified, addressing speed-to-market issues.
This bill exempts Louisiana Citizens from specific bad faith penalties, limits such penalties to policy limits (excluding attorney’s fees), and suspends the 10% surcharge above the private market for three years.
This bill removes the sunset clause for the Fortified Homes Grant Program, ensuring its continuation While it does not establish a funding source, the program received a one-year allocation of $20 million in the budget, with expectations for recurring funding in next year’s fiscal session
This bill establishes licensing and regulation for appraisers and umpires, setting minimum qualifications and conflict of interest provisions It requires the Department to maintain a list of registered appraisers and umpires and ensures a process for unbiased appraisals
This bill establishes new deceptive trade practices related to claim adjusters' reports It clarifies that insurers, already required to provide a claim file within 14 days of a written request, must include the original field adjuster’s report and document any changes made.
This bill promotes transparency around Fortified discounts by requiring the department to commission an actuarial survey and publish the findings Additionally, the Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI) must publish a list of approved Fortified discounts
As we wrap up an incredible 2024, we want to take a moment to reflect on all that we’ve accomplished together and express our deepest gratitude to everyone who plays a role in making IIABL such a thriving and impactful association. This year has been filled with growth, collaboration, and success, and none of it would have been possible without the unwavering support and commitment of our members, sponsors, board members, local chapters, and staff.
To our members, you are the heart of IIABL. Your dedication to the industry and active participation in our events, educational programs, and initiatives inspire us every day. It’s because of your passion for excellence that we are able to serve as a trusted resource and advocate for the independent insurance industry in Louisiana. Thank you for being the foundation of everything we do.
To our sponsors, your generosity and partnership are invaluable. Your support allows us to create impactful programs, host unforgettable events, and champion the needs of our industry. We are so grateful for your belief in our mission and for standing beside us every step of the way. Together, we’ve achieved remarkable things this year.
To our local chapters and their dedicated leaders, thank you for your incredible work in your communities. Your events and initiatives not only foster local connections but also amplify IIABL’s mission across the state. From fundraising drives to social events, your efforts have made a lasting impact, and we’re honored to support and celebrate your achievements.
Finally, to our hardworking board members and staff, you are the driving force behind everything we accomplish. Your vision, leadership, and dedication keep us moving forward. Whether it’s planning events, advocating at the Capitol, or providing member support, your efforts are truly the backbone of IIABL. We are endlessly thankful for your commitment and expertise.
As we look ahead to 2025, we are filled with excitement and optimism for the future. This past year has set the stage for even greater success, and we can’t wait to see what we’ll accomplish together in the year to come. Thank you to everyone who made 2024 unforgettable - we couldn’t have done it without you!
With heartfelt gratitude, The IIABL Team
WILLGREEN LABIPRESIDENT&CEO
This article by Will Green discusses Louisiana's improved ranking in ATRF's Judicial Hellholes Report, moving to tenth place due to legal reform efforts. Despite challenges like excessive litigation and economic losses, recent progress offers hope for continued improvement in 2025.
The American Tort Reform Foundation (ATRF) released its highly anticipated Judicial Hellholes Report for 2024-25. For the 15th consecutive year, Louisiana has earned a place on the list, ranking as the tenth-worst “Judicial Hellhole” in the United States. You can find the full report here, with Louisiana’s section starting on page 68. The Silver Lining
While the title of “Judicial Hellhole” may sting, there’s a bright spot worth celebrating: this year marks Louisiana’s best ranking in 15 years. We’ve moved from spot number seven to number ten, finally holding the last position on the list—a spot where “last” feels like progress.
This improvement is no accident. It reflects the hard work and commitment to legal reform demonstrated by many during the 2024 Legislative Session. These efforts are beginning to gain recognition and make an impact. As we head into 2025, let’s take a moment to appreciate how far we’ve come while preparing for the work that lies ahead.
The Judicial Hellholes Report highlights ongoing challenges in our state’s legal environment. Here are some key takeaways:
Economic Losses from Excessive Litigation: Louisiana’s legal system has led to nearly $4.4 billion in gross product losses, over 40,000 lost jobs, and an annual “tort tax” of approximately $965 per Louisiana resident.
Impact of Coastal Litigation: Frivolous lawsuits targeting the energy industry continue to result in job loss and significant reductions in state tax revenue.
Major Cases on the Radar: The report mentions the $220 million nuclear verdict in St. Landry Parish and a Louisiana Supreme Court decision that reversed its previous stance on time-barred claims. It also highlights a federal investigation into a fraudulent staged trucking scheme.
The report’s “Points of Light” section gave a nod to LABI-supported legislation like SB 16 by Senator Pressly. This critical bill improves regulations around the admissibility of life care planners and their reports, marking a step forward in creating a more balanced legal system.
While these findings are sobering, they underscore the importance of the work being done to improve Louisiana’s legal climate. The progress made this year is proof that change is possible—and that your efforts matter. From legislative reforms to community engagement, every step contributes to a stronger, more equitable future for our state.
As we close out 2024, take pride in the strides we’ve made and let it fuel your determination for what’s next. Together, we can continue moving Louisiana forward—one step at a time.
BRIANBUTCHER
SWISSRECLAIMSEXPERT
This article presents an E&O claims handler's wish list for reducing claims: thorough policy reviews, checking UM/UIM coverage in umbrella policies, implementing strong follow-up systems, and emphasizing comprehensive documentation to protect agents, brokers, and clients.
Hi, Santa.
It's Brian, your favorite agents and brokers errors & omissions claims handler, writing after a year of diligently navigating the complexities of E&O claims.
As we approach the holiday season, I wanted to share my wish list with you. If you could grant these requests, it would go a long way toward ensuring fewer claims and making my agent friends very happy. Here are four things on my list:
1) Thorough review of new policies. To get a better price for their clients, agents often move their clients from standard to excess & surplus lines markets or change carriers. Unfortunately, this practice is fraught with peril. The terms and conditions of the new policy often differ from those of the prior policy. It is crucial to ensure these transactions do not inadvertently make coverage more restrictive or less favorable.
When a policy is procured with a new carrier, the terms and conditions of the policy can change, potentially leaving gaps in coverage that were not present in the previous policy. For instance, E&S policies often come with different terms compared to standard policies. Without scrutiny, agents might overlook critical changes. If the new policy doesn't match up with the prior policy, these lapses can lead to significant E&O claims being presented against the agent or broker.
Agents can avoid an E&O claim by comparing the terms and conditions of the new policy with the previous one to ensure consistency, clearly explaining any changes in coverage or limitations to clients, and maintaining detailed records of all communications and policy comparisons.
2) Review umbrella policies for uninsured motorist and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. Many umbrella policies do not include coverage for UM/UIM. The failure to include UM/UIM coverage on an umbrella policy can be the source of significant E&O claims presented against the agent or broker because the underlying injuries are usually severe, which often engender jury sympathy and large verdicts at trial.
UM/UIM coverage provides vital protection in cases where the at-fault party is either uninsured or underinsured. If this coverage is not adequately addressed in an umbrella or excess policy, clients may face substantial out-ofpocket expenses in the event of a severe accident. Ensuring these coverages are included and sufficient can prevent significant claims disputes and protect clients and agents and brokers.
Agents can avoid an E&O claim by confirming that UM/UIM coverage is included in umbrella and excess policies where applicable, explaining the importance of UM/UIM coverage and how it benefits clients, and regularly reviewing and updating policies as client needs and legal environments evolve. If the client doesn't want the coverage, document this with the client in a letter or email.
3) Implement a robust diary system for follow-up. Effective follow-up is crucial to managing risks and ensuring that no critical issues are overlooked. Without a reliable follow-up system, agents might miss important deadlines or fail to address issues in a timely manner. This can lead to missed opportunities to rectify potential coverage gaps or address client concerns, ultimately increasing the risk of E&O claims. A robust diary system helps track activities and ensures all necessary actions are taken.
What about mortgage forbearance and price-gouging post-storm? Monitoring the National Weather Service, Mike's Weather Page and the National Hurricane Center for storm updates can help manage the anxiety of information overload and manage expectations.
Ben Albright
December 2023
Agents can avoid an E&O claim by employing digital tools or software to track and manage follow-up tasks and deadlines, scheduling periodic reviews to ensure that all follow-up items are addressed, and maintaining regular contact with clients to keep them informed and engaged.
4) Document, document and document. The final and perhaps most crucial wish on my list is a strong emphasis on documentation. As the saying goes, “If it's not in writing, it didn't happen." Comprehensive documentation is essential for defending against E&O claims and ensuring clarity in all transactions and communications.
Proper documentation provides a clear record of what was agreed upon, communicated and executed. In the event of an E&O claim, well-maintained records can be instrumental in demonstrating that all procedures were followed correctly and that clients were fully informed. On the other hand, inadequate documentation can prove disastrous in E&O claim defenses.
Agents can avoid an E&O claim by documenting all client communications, policy changes and transactions; implementing standardized forms and checklists to ensure consistency and completeness; and storing documentation securely to ensure it is easily retrievable when needed.
By addressing these key risk management practices we can significantly reduce the risk of E&O claims for my agent and broker friends, which I know would make them very happy.
Thank you, Santa, for considering these requests. Sincerely,
Your Favorite E&O Claims Handler
P.S. I'm still waiting on the pony I asked for in 1965.
PATRICIASMITH SWISSRECLAIMSEXPERT
This article highlights strategies for independent insurance agencies to manage surplus cash effectively, avoiding overspending, complacency, and missed opportunities by balancing liquidity, disciplined budgeting, and growth-focused reinvestment with the guidance of a trusted banking partner.
Your independent insurance agency is flush with cash. Great! Now what?
While having strong cash reserves is certainly a positive, effectively managing the balance between liquidity and returns requires careful strategy and disciplined financial management. With the right insights, tools and banking partner, independent agencies can navigate these financial challenges in a way that optimizes returns without sacrificing liquidity or taking on unnecessary risk.
Some of the challenges agencies face when they have an influx of cash include the temptation to overspend, focusing on short-term investment strategies, and complacency by letting the funds sit idle. Through it all, the importance of finding and communicating with a trusted banking partner is essential for getting the right guidance no matter where the agency and the economy stand.
One of the first challenges agencies face when flush with cash is the temptation to overspend. A surplus can create a false sense of security, leading to less disciplined financial management. It’s natural to feel more confident with a cushion in the bank; however, this can sometimes lead to poor decision-making if not managed properly.
It’s important to lay out clear financial guidelines and stick to them — even when the bank account is overflowing. By implementing strict budget controls and regularly reviewing spending against these controls, agencies can maintain the discipline necessary to ensure their cash reserves are being used wisely and effectively. Although overspending is one of the main challenges agencies confront when cash reserves are strong, complacency is equally as challenging. Agencies face the risk of becoming too comfortable with their current financial situation, leading to missed opportunities and idle funds. It’s vital to remain proactive in seeking ways to reinvest those reserves into growth opportunities.
Whether it’s acquiring a new book of business, expanding services or investing in new technologies, agencies should always look for ways to put their cash to work. Regular financial reviews with their banking partner can help identify these opportunities, ensuring that agencies are not leaving money on the table.
Another challenge that arises is a lack of focus on long-term investment strategies. With an excess of cash flow, agencies may not feel the urgency to plan and execute investment strategies that will yield high returns over time. Instead, they might opt for short-term gains, which don’t contribute to sustainable growth.
Just as with complacency, to develop a robust investment strategy, it’s crucial for agencies to work with a knowledgeable banking partner that understands the insurance industry. For example, utilizing products like overnight sweep accounts can be highly effective. These accounts automatically transfer excess funds into higheryielding investments overnight, ensuring that cash isn’t sitting idle without generating returns.
In today’s age, technology plays an important role in optimizing cash management. Online banking platforms and other cash management tools allow agencies to monitor accounts, transfer funds and track financial transactions in real time. These tools make it easier to manage cash effectively and minimize the risk of missing out on investment opportunities.
In general, automated sweep accounts can transfer excess funds into high-yielding accounts daily, ensuring that an agency’s extra cash is always generating returns. By leveraging these technologies, agencies can reduce the manual effort required to manage their cash and ensure that their reserves are being optimized.
Between the challenges of overspending and letting cash sit idle, another big challenge for agencies in cash management is finding the right balance between liquidity and returns. Investing cash in high-yield, longer-term investments can potentially generate greater returns, but it also ties up the cash and reduces liquidity. Striking the right balance between liquidity and returns is crucial for managing risk and ensuring financial stability.
A cash management sweep product linked to the agency’s operating account is an effective method for maximizing returns on idle funds while ensuring liquidity. Here is an example involving excess funds of $100,000 sitting idle in an operating account. With an initial interest rate of 5.04%, the agency has the potential for earning significant interest, even amid fluctuating rates.
Assume in the first three months the rate remains at 5.04%. However, the next three months rates begin to dip to 4.04%, then 2.04% for the next quarter, and finally rates decline once again to 1.04% for the last three months of the year.
The calculation of the total interest earned from this investment example is broken down as follows:
1.First Three Months:
Interest = $100,000 x 5.04% x (3/12) = $1,260
2.Second Three Months:
Interest = $100,000 x 4.04% x (3/12) = $1,010
3.Third Three Months:
Interest = $100,000 x 2.04% x (3/12) = $510
4.Final Three Months:
Interest = $100,000 x 1.04% x (3/12) = $260
The total interest earned throughout the year would be approximately $3,040.
This illustration underlines the value of cash management sweep products; they allow agencies to generate returns on excess funds without sacrificing access to capital. Even as rates decline, a disciplined approach to managing idle cash can lead to substantial annual earnings, highlighting the importance of strategic financial planning in today’s fluctuating interest rate environment.
When rates are rising, there are other strategies to consider such as laddering certificates of deposit (CDs). CD ladders involve spreading investments across multiple CDs with different maturity dates, allowing agencies to access their funds at regular intervals while still earning higher returns. This approach provides both liquidity and the potential for increased earnings, making it an attractive option for agencies with excess cash.
Having a reliable banking partner that not only provides essential financial services but also comprehensively understands the unique operational needs of an independent agency is invaluable. Such a partner recognizes the distinct cash flow patterns associated with independent agencies, including the inflows of commissions, as well as contingencies, and the outflows of carrier payments. This understanding is crucial, as it allows the bank to offer tailored financial solutions that accommodate the timing of claims and renewals, thereby ensuring seamless liquidity management. A comprehensive financial review with a banking partner can uncover opportunities to save costs, improve efficiencies and maximize returns. It’s important to conduct these reviews annually, even without an immediate lending need.
A financial review should encompass deposits, services and internal operations, as a good banking partner can provide ways to reduce costs and improve efficiencies through simple cash management solutions.
Regular check-ins with its banking partner ensure that the agency’s financial strategy remains aligned with current market conditions and its long-term goals.
Being flush with cash requires a strategic approach to ensure that these reserves are working for the agency. By focusing on disciplined spending, long-term investment strategies, balancing liquidity and returns, leveraging technology, and maintaining a strong relationship with a knowledgeable banking partner, agencies can optimize their cash reserves for maximum benefit.
In today’s volatile economic environment, agencies that actively manage their cash are better positioned to navigate challenges and capitalize on growth opportunities. By taking a proactive and strategic approach to cash management, agencies can ensure they remain financially healthy and ready to take advantage of whatever opportunities the market may present.
Commercial
CRC
Gulf
Homebuilders
IIABL 2024-2025
CHAIRMAN, BRET HUGHES
CHAIRMAN-ELECT, ROSS HENRY
SECRETARY-TREASURER, JOE KING MONTGOMERY
NATIONAL DIRECTOR, JOHNNY BECKMANN, III
PAST CHAIRMAN, ARMOND K. SCHWING
YOUNG AGENT REP, MAGGIE LANDRY
Hughes Insurance Services, Inc - Gonzales
Henry Insurance Service, Inc. - Baton Rouge
Community Financial Insurance Center, LLC - Monroe
Assured Partners - Metairie
Schwing Insurance Agency, Inc. - New Iberia
Perkins-McKenzie Insurance Agency - Baton Rouge
ANN BODKIN-SMITH
MATTHEW DEBLANC
CHRISTY DESOTO
DOMINIQUE DICARLO CROUCH
ROB W. EPPERS
MATT GRAHAM
CHRISTOPHER S. HAIK
STUART HARRIS
BEAU HEAROD
CHARLES H. LEBLANC
CRAIG MARTEL
LYDIA MCMORRIS
A. EUGENE MONTGOMERY, III
HARTWIG "ROBBY" MOSS, IV
SETH OSTENDORFF
ROBERT LOUIS PALMER, JR.
RANDY PERISE
ROBERT STONE
Thomson Smith & Leach Insurance Group - Lafayette
Continental Insurance Services - Marrero
1st Insurance of Marksville - Marksville
Riverlands Insurance Agency - LaPlace
Risk Services of Louisiana - Alexandria
Lincoln Agency - Ruston
Higginbotham Insurance - Lafayette
McClure, Bomar & Harris, LLC - Shreveport
Jeff Davis Insurance - Jennings
Bourg Insurance Agency, Inc. - Donaldsonville
Insurance Unlimited of LA, LLC - Lake Charles
Alliant Insurance Services - Baton Rouge
Community Financial Insurance Center, LLC - Monroe
Hartwig Moss Insurance - New Orleans
Dethloff & Associates - Shreveport
Insurance Underwriters, Ltd. - Metairie
Blumberg and Associates - Ponchatoula
Stone Insurance, Inc. - Metairie