“The insight we get from consumer representatives is invaluable as we weigh the impact of changes to insurance regulation on the consumers in our states,” said Julie Mix McPeak, NAIC President and Tennessee Commissioner of Commerce and Insurance. “They provide a unique perspective and voice, which is critical as we make decisions at the NAIC.”
Established in 1992, the Consumer Liaison Program promotes consumer representation and interaction with NAIC members by providing funding for representatives of consumer organizations to participate in NAIC meetings. The NAIC defines a consumer organization as a national, state or local organization that serves to protect the interests of consumers as they relate to the regulation of insurance. The NAIC provides travel expense reimbursement to funded consumer representatives.
“Partnering with consumer representatives ensures that we never lose sight of who we are working for – U.S. consumers,” said Stephen C. Taylor, Commissioner of the District of Columbia Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking. “Working with consumer advocates brings into focus our collective vision for protecting policyholders.” Taylor chairs the NAIC’s Consumer Liaison Committee and the Consumer Participation Board of Trustees.
To qualify, an individual must demonstrate a commitment to representing consumer interests in insurance regulation, be willing to fully participate in NAIC deliberations and have established expertise and experience on insurance-related issues addressed by the NAIC. Funded consumer representatives must also show that outside funding is required in order to carry out the above responsibilities. A candidate must not have obligations or commitments to an industry that conflict with his or her responsibilities to represent consumer interests.
Individuals who do not need NAIC funding may apply to participate in the Consumer Liaison Program as an unfunded consumer representative.
More information regarding the NAIC’s Consumer Liaison Program and the application process is available online.
