J A N U A R Y
T O G E T H E R , W E C A N
M A K E L O U I S I A N A ’ S
A U T O I N S U R A N C E
A F F O R D A B L E
B Y B E N A L B R I G H T ,
P A G E 6
G O V E R N M E N T
A F F A I R S U P D A T E :
W I L D F I R E S ,
I N S U R A N C E ,
A N D K E Y
L E G I S L A T I O N
B Y N A T H A N R I E D E L ,
P A G E 9
T O P 6 C O N T I N U I N G
E D U C A T I O N
B Y K A T H L E E N
O ’ R E G A N , P A G E 1 2
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
Louisiana has the highest auto insurance rates in the nation—impacting families, businesses, and the overall economy. While the challenges are complex, the solution starts with us. The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of Louisiana (IIABL) is committed to driving real change, but we need your help to make it happen. That’s why we’ve launched Make LA Insurance Affordable, a grassroots effort to advocate for meaningful reforms that will lower auto insurance costs for everyone in our state.
As independent insurance agents, you have a direct line to customers who are feeling the burden of rising premiums. To help you educate, engage, and activate your clients and community, IIABL has created a comprehensive resource library with everything you need to drive awareness and action.
�� Push Cards – Distribute these to customers, colleagues, and local businesses to explain why rates are so high and how they can help fix the problem. (Request more at info@iiabl.com)
�� Talking Points – Simple, effective messaging to use in conversations with customers and elected officials.
�� Email & Letter Templates – Pre-written messages you can copy, paste, and customize to encourage clients to contact legislators.
�� Social Media Content – Ready-made posts and graphics to spread awareness and inspire action.
�� Website & Action Center – Direct clients to www.makelainsuranceaffordable.com for key facts and tools to contact legislators.
�� Google Drive Resource Library – Access all materials here: Resource Library.
The more people who understand the issue and take action, the greater our chance of seeing real reform. Here’s what you can do today:
✅ Hand out push cards to customers, community members, and business owners.
✅Update your email signature to include a message linking to www.makelainsuranceaffordable.com.
✅Use the email & letter templates to send a message to your clients explaining how they can help.
✅Share social media posts to raise awareness and encourage grassroots action.
✅Engage in conversations—educate your clients and peers about the crisis and why contacting legislators is critical.
If we don’t take action, nothing will change. Louisiana’s broken system will continue to drive up costs, making auto insurance unaffordable for families and businesses. But with your voice, your influence, and these resources, we can push for reforms that make a real difference. Let’s work together to fix this crisis. Start sharing these resources today and help us Make LA Insurance Affordable! For questions or to request additional materials, contact us at info@iiabl.com.
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PRESIDENTOFFEDERAL GOVERNMENTAFFAIRS
In this article, we cover key legislative updates affecting the insurance industry, including congressional wildfire response, tax deduction extensions, and efforts to eliminate the Federal Insurance Office.
Congressional Response to California Wildfires and Big “I” FAQ Document
The recent wildfires in Southern California have become one of the most disruptive and costliest natural disasters in history, devastating thousands of lives. In their aftermath, the insurance industry has certainly been scrutinized as has the challenging regulatory environment in the state of California. Senate Banking Committee Chair Tim Scott (RSC) and House Financial Services Committee Chair French Hill (R-AR) have announced working groups and roundtables to examine wildfire insurance coverage, while expressing their support of the state regulatory system. Additionally, Ranking Member of the House Financial Services Committee Maxine Waters (D-CA) and Representative Brad Sherman (D-CA) have introduced the “Wildfire Insurance Coverage Study Act.” It would require the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct a study assessing the danger of wildfire and provide recommendations for federal action to stabilize markets and expand access to coverage.
On January 23 the U.S. House passed the “Fix our Forests Act” with a bipartisan vote of 279-141. The legislation, which was introduced by Representatives Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Scott Peters (D-CA), allows for better forest management practices to prevent future catastrophic wildfires. The bill helps restore forest health, increases resiliency and protects communities in wildland urban interfaces by implementing proper land management practices. The Big “I” joined with carrier trade associations to endorse the legislation and encourage congress to act. Companion legislation has not yet been introduced in the Senate.
The Big “I” government affairs team has heard from agents across the country, wondering what impact the wildfires could have on both the California market and the country more broadly. In response to significant interest, we have created a Q&A (also attached) to address the most frequent questions. Agents and brokers should feel free to use this in discussions with policymakers and customers.
On January 23, the “Main Street Tax Certainty Act” was reintroduced by Senator Steve Daines (R-MT) and Representative Lloyd Smucker (R-PA). The legislation would make permanent the Section 199A deduction prior to its expiration at the end of 2025. The Big “I” joined a broad coalition of stakeholders as the only property-casualty agent group to sign a letter endorsing the legislation, and has been rounding up cosponsors. We are pleased to report that it was introduced with 36 original cosponsors in the Senate and 151 original cosponsors in the House. Every member of the Senate Republican leadership team is on board, as well as every Republican member of the House Ways & Means Committee. This is a significant show of support and ensures that this legislation will be given strong consideration as part of any tax package that moves forward.
On January 23, Representative Troy Downing (R-MT) introduced the “Federal Insurance Office Elimination Act” in the U.S. House of Representatives. The act affirms the state regulatory system and abolishes the Federal Insurance Office (FIO). Similar bicameral legislation has been introduced in prior sessions of congress with little movement, but there is speculation that this could have some legs, given the Trump Administration’s efforts to identify government inefficiencies. Before his election to the House in November, Representative Downing served as Montana State Auditor and oversaw the state’s securities and insurance industries. In December a coalition of nine insurance commissioners urged the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to work with Downing to pass legislation to eliminate the FIO as part of its mission to streamline federal operations.
We also touch upon some important issues that will be top of mind at this year’s Legislative Conference (April 30 – May 2). Please mark it on your calendar and encourage one person to join you!
The Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of Louisiana (IIABL) is dedicated to empowering our members with the tools and knowledge they need to excel. One of our most valuable resources is the online platform for approved Continuing Education (CE) courses, helping members meet the Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI) requirements for license renewal. In 2024, these six courses stood out as the most popular among our members, providing critical insights and practical knowledge for success in the insurance industry.
1. Understanding and Avoiding E&O Claims in an Independent Insurance Agency
Errors and Omissions (E&O) claims can be costly and damaging to an agency's reputation. This course equips agents with strategies to minimize risk, recognize potential pitfalls, and implement proactive measures to prevent claims. By focusing on real-world scenarios, this training helps members safeguard their agencies while maintaining high standards of service.
2. Flood Program Overview - NFIP Then and Now
Flood insurance is an ever-evolving field, and understanding the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is critical for agents serving clients in Louisiana. This course explores the history, recent changes, and current challenges of the NFIP, enabling agents to provide informed guidance and tailored solutions for clients in flood-prone areas.
3. Why Certificates of Insurance… Just Why?
Certificates of Insurance (COIs) can be a source of confusion and liability for insurance agents. This course delves into the purpose, proper usage, and common misunderstandings surrounding COIs. It also highlights best practices to ensure compliance, clarity, and risk mitigation, making it a must for agents handling COIs regularly.
Building on the foundation of E&O prevention, this course offers a deep dive into agency exposures and defense strategies. By examining case studies and real-life claims, participants gain a better understanding of how to identify vulnerabilities and create robust defenses to protect their agencies from potential liabilities.
A strong organizational culture is key to an agency's success. This course emphasizes the importance of fostering a positive, ethical, and productive work environment. Participants learn actionable strategies for improving team dynamics, enhancing employee satisfaction, and aligning organizational goals with ethical practices, ultimately boosting productivity and client trust.
Ethics are the cornerstone of the insurance profession, and this course reinforces the importance of maintaining integrity and professionalism. Participants explore ethical dilemmas specific to the insurance industry and gain tools to navigate these challenges effectively. This training ensures agents uphold the highest ethical standards, building trust with clients and regulators alike.
Ben Albright
December 2023
Education is a cornerstone of professional growth, and IIABL’s online CE platform makes it convenient for members to stay informed and compliant. Each course is designed with the unique needs of independent insurance agents in mind, blending industry-specific knowledge with practical application. Whether addressing compliance, risk management, or professional ethics, these courses empower agents to excel in their roles and better serve their clients.
Our platform, available at iiabl.aben.tv, provides flexible learning opportunities that fit your schedule. Whether you're seeking to sharpen your skills, meet LDI requirements, or explore new areas of expertise, these courses are an invaluable resource for your professional journey.
Invest in your success and take advantage of the resources IIABL offers to enhance your career today!
On January 29, 2025, the Independent Insurance Agents of Baton Rouge (IIABR) hosted its annual Installation Luncheon at the Baton Rouge Country Club, marking the official transition of leadership for the new year. During the ceremony, Wendy Bates, 2024 IIABR President, formally passed the torch to Carter Fourrier, who will serve as the 2025 IIABR President. The event brought together members, industry professionals, and guests to celebrate the achievements of the past year and usher in a new chapter of leadership.
The newly installed 2025 IIABR Board of Directors is as follows:
President: Carter Fourrier
President-Elect: Amos Gibson
Secretary-Treasurer: Anthony O’Connor
Past President: Wendy Bates
Director: Brittany Mohr Hunter
Director: Blair Bogan
Director: Christian Leach
Director: David Viguerie
Under Carter Fourrier’s leadership, IIABR looks forward to a year of continued growth, advocacy, and professional development for independent agents in the Baton Rouge community. With a strong and dedicated board, the association is well-positioned to support its members, foster industry relationships, and advance initiatives that benefit the insurance profession.
We extend our gratitude to Wendy Bates for her leadership throughout 2024 and are excited to see the incredible impact this new board will have in the year ahead!
IIABLCOMMUNICATIONS ANDEVENTS ADMINISTRATOR
In this article, we introduce Focus Forward: Empowering Agencies, a free four-part webinar series with Carey Wallace, designed to help independent insurance agencies leverage technology, improve efficiency, and position themselves for long-term success.
IIABL is excited to announce a new four-part webinar series, Focus Forward: Empowering Agencies, in collaboration with Carey Wallace of AgencyFocus. This exclusive series is designed to help independent insurance agencies navigate today’s challenges, improve efficiency, and position themselves for long-term success.
Each session is completely free to attend, held virtually, and runs from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM. Whether you join for just one session or all four, these webinars will provide valuable insights and actionable strategies to help agencies thrive in an evolving marketplace.
This session is approved for one hour of Continuing Education (CE) credit.
Agencies today face increasing demands with fewer resources, particularly in the current hard market. In this session, Carey Wallace will explore how agencies can leverage modern technology and artificial intelligence to alleviate staff workloads, increase operational efficiency, and enhance overall profitability. The webinar will showcase practical examples of cost-effective technology solutions, detailing their impact on productivity and customer experience. Attendees will gain insights into implementation strategies, expected costs, and time-saving benefits. This session is an opportunity to learn how technology can optimize agency operations and improve business value.
Understanding agency valuation is critical for long-term business success. This session will provide a deep dive into the factors influencing business value, focusing on growth, profitability, and risk management. Participants will learn how financial performance, expansion strategies, and operational efficiencies contribute to valuation. The session will also explore common pro forma adjustments, deal structure considerations, and the risks associated with owner and carrier reliance. Special attention will be given to the importance of planning ahead, as failing to prepare for valuation impacts can be the greatest risk of all.
Register here
There are many misconceptions surrounding valuation multiples and their role in agency operations. This session aims to clarify these myths and provide agency owners with a practical framework for managing multiple priorities effectively. Participants will learn how to establish clear priorities, avoid common pitfalls, and implement strategies that lead to long-term business stability. The discussion will include real-world techniques for improving efficiency and maintaining control in a fast-paced business environment.
Register here
Key performance indicators (KPIs) are essential for agency owners looking to track business performance and make informed strategic decisions. This session will focus on identifying the most critical KPIs in the insurance industry, including revenue, premium volume, retention, financial performance, and operational metrics.
Attendees will gain a better understanding of how to select the right KPIs, avoid common mistakes, and use datadriven insights to support hiring decisions, compensation structures, and long-term investments. By the end of this session, participants will have a clear roadmap for monitoring and optimizing agency performance.
Carey Wallace, Founder of AgencyFocus, has spent over 16 years working closely with independent insurance agencies, helping them understand and maximize their business value. As a Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA), she specializes in agency valuation, perpetuation planning, acquisition support, financial analysis, and fractional CFO services.
Carey has presented to over 5,000 insurance agents in the past year and is regarded as an expert in her field. She is committed to helping agency owners develop actionable plans tailored to their unique business goals. Through her expertise, agencies can gain deeper financial insight, improve operational efficiencies, and plan for a successful future.
This exclusive webinar series is designed to help agencies enhance their strategic planning, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen financial performance. Whether you attend one session or all four, each webinar will provide practical tools and expert guidance to support your agency’s success.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable industry insights—register today to secure your spot!
MAY8,2025
4:00PM-6:00PM
IIABLDIRECTOROF COMMUNICATIONSAND EVENTS
In this article, we introduce the IAMBA program, a business education experience designed for insurance agency professionals to enhance leadership, optimize operations, and drive success through practical learning and industry-specific strategies.
The independent insurance industry is constantly evolving, and staying ahead requires more than just technical knowledge—it demands strong leadership and business acumen. That’s why IIABL has partnered with Goal Makers to offer the IA-MBA program, a business education experience designed specifically for insurance agency professionals.
This program provides agency leaders, managers, and future decision-makers with the tools to improve leadership, optimize operations, and drive business success. Through an engaging and practical curriculum, participants gain insight into essential business strategies, financial management, and operational efficiency, all tailored for the insurance industry.
The IA-MBA program isn’t just about learning—it’s about action. Each session is designed to help participants immediately apply key principles to their agency, ensuring tangible improvements in leadership, management, and overall business performance. Plus, the program fosters valuable networking opportunities, allowing participants to connect and collaborate with industry peers.
"IIABL is always looking for ways to help our members succeed, and the IA-MBA program is an outstanding opportunity for agency professionals to develop strong leadership and business skills,” said Ben Albright, IIABL CEO & President. “Our partnership with Goal Makers allows us to offer a high-quality program that is not only affordable but also tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities within independent agencies.”
Whether you’re looking to strengthen your leadership skills, enhance your agency’s efficiency, or take the next step in your career, the IA-MBA program provides the knowledge and tools to succeed in today’s competitive market. Don’t miss this opportunity to invest in yourself and your agency. Registration for the spring session is now open! Visit the website to learn more and secure your spot today.
WILLJONES IAEDITOR-IN-CHIEF
In this article, we explore how rising insurance rates have led to record-high policy shopping, setting the stage for increased competition among carriers in 2025 and a potential surge in usage-based insurance adoption.
If 2024 was the year of sky-high insurance premiums, 2025 is shaping up to be the year when everyone shops for a lower rate, according to J.D. Power's December 2024 “Insurance Intelligence Report."
In July 2024, auto insurance rates were up 11% year over year, according to the report, while homeowners and renters insurance costs exceeded the rate of inflation, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. As a result, the shopping rate climbed to “a record high of 6.8% through the second quarter of 2024, up from 5.9% two years ago," said Breanne Armstrong, director of insurance intelligence at J.D. Power.
With rates rising across the board, nearly half (49%) of U.S. auto insurance customers said they were shopping for a new plan. By the third quarter of 2024, auto insurance shopping rates had reached a record high. However, with virtually every carrier increasing rates, shoppers had very few alternatives and many stayed put.
Now, that's all about to change.
“The insurance rate inflation everyone experienced over the past two years was driven by a perfect storm of increased frequency and severity of damage to property, increased costs in the raw materials needed to conduct those repairs, and longer repair cycle times, all of which increased costs for insurers," the report said. “Thanks in part to all the premium increases introduced to combat this trend, however, property & casualty insurance profitability started to improve throughout the second half of the year."
“That will likely make 2025 a major tipping point for policy shopping and switching," the report explained. “After the past three years spent shoring up their operations and scaling back growth initiatives, insurers are going to be on the hunt for new customers in 2025 and all indications are that customers will be more than willing to comparison shop their policies and jump ship for a better rate."
Policy shopping activity hit a record high of 13.8% in September, according to J.D. Power's quarterly LIST Report for the third quarter of 2024. Since then, shopping rates have stayed elevated, hitting 13.8% again in October and dipping slightly to 13.6% in November. Switch rates also increased, peaking at 4.6% in August. As more competition starts to heat up between carriers, switch rates may increase further in 2025.
Meanwhile, usage-based insurance (UBI) is poised for broader adoption. While only 17% of drivers currently opt for UBI—double the rate from eight years ago—the percentage of customers being offered UBI dipped in 2024, with just 15% of shoppers being given UBI options, down from 22% in 2023.
However, UBI participants report significantly higher satisfaction, averaging 64 points more than non-UBI customers on a 1,000-point scale. Increasing shopping trends could signal a surge in UBI adoption in the future.
“The bump in customer satisfaction that's coming from UBI, combined with a surge in rate-driven shopping and switching activity and continued interest among insurers in courting new customers, have set the stage for a significant jump in UBI adoption," the report said.
While the trends shaping up in 2025 could spell some relief for consumers who have been suffering significant rate increases for the better part of three years, they will make for a volatile year for carriers, the report predicted. “With costs not likely getting any lower and customers consistently demanding more—and voting with their wallets to get it—we're likely to see a price battle emerge throughout the year," the report said.
Commercial
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