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Showing posts from December, 2019

Michigan City Ramping Up Enforcement of Ban on Using Handheld Phone While Driving

Police in Battle Creek, Michigan are enforcing a local ban on the use of a handheld phone while driving. The prohibition has been on the books for months, but signs recently went up at Battle Creek’s city entry points. Police … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/36fyxBc

POWERS Insurance & Risk Management Adds Pallarito as Personal Lines Manager

St. Louis, Missouri-based POWERS Insurance & Risk Management has hired Kathy Pallarito as a personal lines manager. Pallarito has over 25 years of sales, customer service, and marketing experience in the insurance industry. In her new position, she will assist … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2rOchQc

In Midwest, Legal Marijuana Sales May Spark Interstate Tension

Retailers legally selling marijuana for the past month in Michigan say they have drawn customers from surrounding Midwestern states where the drug remains illegal and, as Illinois prepares to joins the recreational market on Jan. 1, officials are renewing warnings … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2FbEwLH

Texas Surplus Lines Association Warns of Fake Email

The Texas Surplus Lines Association is warning its members of a fake email that has been sent out under the name of TSLA President Jennifer Mier. TSLA is urging members not to respond to the email. In an emailed message, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/39nrNn3

Helicopter Tours Criticized After Deadly Hawaii Crash

Tour helicopter operations in Hawaii are under increased scrutiny after a deadly crash this week, one of several recent accidents in the state, with a congressman calling the trips unsafe and lacking proper oversight. A helicopter that was set to … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2ZMmOIc

Emergency Declaration Extended in Alaska Borough for Flooding

An emergency declaration was extended in an Alaska borough where residents were forced to evacuate when an ice jam caused a creek to flood, official said. Matanuska-Susitna Borough Assembly members met with state officials Saturday to discuss options to deal … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2FcSIUs

Will People Use California’s Vastly Expanded Digital Privacy Law?

Forty million Californians will soon obtain sweeping digital privacy rights stronger than any seen before in the U.S. – rights that could pose a significant challenge to Big Tech and the data economy it created. So long as state residents … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2MMYoJk

Climate Forecast for 2020s Is Warmer, Stormier and More Extreme: Opinion

Over the last decade, scientists learned a great deal about the climate, much of it concerning the connection between global warming and extreme events — heat waves, hurricanes, floods, droughts and wildfires. There has been, for many years, an understanding … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35a5lKQ

Eight Crew Members Kidnapped from Greek Tanker Anchored Near Cameroon

Five Greeks, two Filipinos and a Ukrainian were abducted by unidentified assailants from the Greek-flagged tanker ‘Happy Lady’ while the vessel was anchored two nautical miles from Limboh port in Cameroon. The attack on the 28 crew-member ship took place … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2tmxqkB

Program Underwriters Seek ‘New, New’ Spaces While Administrators Embrace Insurtech

Fueled by efficiencies introduced by insurtechs and underwriters’ interest in niche classes, the insurance program business has experienced impressive growth the last few years. But heavy interest is also forcing program administrators to think outside the box in order to … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2SGkIYI

Diet Dr. Pepper Is Not Promising Weight Loss, Court Rules

A U.S. federal appeals court on Monday said the maker of Diet Dr Pepper did not deceive consumers into thinking the soft drink promoted weight loss by including “diet” in its name, a decision that could doom a similar lawsuit … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2MJhU9j

Puff, Puff, Passed: 2019 Marijuana Laws in Review and 2020 Projections

With 2019 nearly rolled up, it is time to exhale and recap the latest dose of marijuana laws affecting the workplace. In the last twelve months, Illinois became the eleventh state to legalize recreational marijuana use by adult[1] and several … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2MG6kfe

Virginia Plant Fire Ruled Accidental, Causes $4M in Damages

A fire at a western Virginia can manufacturing plant caused $4 million in damages and led to injuries for two firefighters battling the blaze, officials said. The fire began Friday evening at the Ardagh Group plant in north Roanoke County … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2QdrRhw

Wawa Facing Lawsuits Over Data Breach at All of Its Stores

The Wawa convenience store chain is facing a wave of lawsuits over a data breach that affected its 850 locations along the East Coast. Wawa Inc. discovered malware on its payment processing servers this month before stopping the breach Dec. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2MKF0MR

Court Says Airline’s Workers at Newark Airport Can’t Sue as Class in Pay Dispute

American Airlines workers at Newark’s airport who claim in a lawsuit they’ve been shorted on overtime pay can’t sue as a class, a federal appeals court ruled this week. The three-judge panel’s decision reversed a New Jersey judge’s ruling that … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2QAETEU

Germany Aims to Thwart African Swine Fever as It Edges Closer to Borders

German hunting dogs are being trained to sniff out dead wild boar, authorities are stockpiling electric fences along the eastern frontier and the government in Berlin is urging drivers not to toss ham-sandwich scraps out of their car windows. These … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Q9EHxc

Australia’s Wildfire Crisis Intensifies as Locals, Tourists Seek Refuge on Beaches

Australia’s wildfire crisis intensified on Tuesday as coastal towns across the southeast caught ablaze, forcing thousands of stranded tourists and locals to seek refuge on beaches. Thick black smoke billowing from infernos in Victoria and New South Wales states turned … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/36gIm1O

Christmas Q&A with Tim Ryan and David Williams

Tim Ryan, executive chairman at Ryan's, and David Williams, MD of underwriting and technical services at Axa, discuss the insurance trends of 2019. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2QxtpSy

Most Common Workers’ Compensation Medical Provider Fraud Schemes

While most insurance claims are legitimate, studies indicate that 10% or more of all property/casualty insurance claims are fraudulent. In the workers’ compensation industry, combatting fraud can seem like a game of Whack-A-Mole. When certain schemes and scenarios are addressed, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2QBQYtc

Uber, Postmates Sue to Overturn California Gig Worker Law as Unconstitutional

Uber Technologies Inc. and Postmates Inc. sued the state of California, alleging that a labor rights law set to go into effect this week is unconstitutional. The lawsuit filed Monday in Los Angeles federal court is a preemptive strike against … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2SHM00O

Fourth Sewer Line in a Month Ruptures in South Florida City

For the fourth time in a month, a South Florida sewer line has ruptured. The sewer line burst on Friday at a park in Fort Lauderdale. It was repaired overnight when crews removed the damaged section of 16-inch force main … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2ZARhZC

Jim Beam Fined $600K Over Massive Kentucky Bourbon Spill

Jim Beam was fined $600,000 earlier this month after a July warehouse fire sent a nearly 23-mile (37-kilometer) plume of alcohol into the Kentucky and Ohio rivers, killing fish. The distiller agreed to the fine in a Dec. 6 order … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2ZBEqGq

Kentucky Farmer Pleads Guilty in Tobacco Crop Insurance Fraud Scheme

Another Central Kentucky farmer has pleaded guilty in a crop insurance fraud scheme that a federal prosecutor has called “pervasive and severe” in that region. Daniel Arvin pleaded guilty on Dec. 19 in federal court in Lexington to a conspiracy … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2sBhI59

Ohio Doctor Charged in 25 Patient Deaths Sues Hospital for Defamation

An Ohio doctor accused of ordering drug overdoses in the deaths of 25 hospital patients has sued his former employer for defamation, arguing that he did nothing wrong and did not deviate from hospital policy on end-of-life care. Dr. William … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2SGEFi2

Blast at Beechcraft Plant in Kansas Injures More Than a Dozen People

More than a dozen people were injured on Dec. 27 when a nitrogen line ruptured at the Beechcraft aircraft manufacturing facility in Wichita, Kansas, causing part of the building to collapse, authorities said. Daniel Wegner, deputy fire chief for Sedgwick … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2QaaRbZ

Document: Iowa School District Settled Discrimination Suit for more than $170K

Newly released documents show that Mason City Schools in Iowa settled a gender discrimination lawsuit filed by a former official for more $170,000. The district issued its former human resources director Jodie Anderson $31,500 in wage differential payment and $73,500 … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35cQqPQ

Venice Floods to Cost St. Mark’s Cathedral at Least $5.5 Million in Damage

“Every stone is a treasure,” says the technical director of St. Mark’s Basilica’s vestry board, indicating the prized gold-leaf mosaics overhead, the inlaid stone pavement and the marble clad walls of the 923-year-old masterpiece. And many are vulnerable to the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2tcnxpU

Eight Escape California Warehouse Fire Similar to Ghost Ship Fire

Oakland authorities have confirmed a fire chased eight people out of an evacuated and condemned building injuring one person before fire crews could extinguish the blaze. Assistant Fire Marshal Emmanuel Watson compared the event to the 2016 fire that trapped … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Q9mDTV

Judge Overturns $15M Award to Ex-LA Times Columnist

A judge has overturned a jury’s award of nearly $15.5 million to a former sports columnist for the Los Angeles Times who said he was forced out of his job because of age and health discrimination. Superior Court Judge William … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2QDBQfg

Allied Names Locher to Lead Winery Insurance Program in Western U.S.

Allied Public Risk, LLC, through its Allied Winery Risk division, has added Gregory Locher to the winery space in the Western U.S. as lead executive of the firm’s property and liability insurance program. The Allied Winery Risk program was designed … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2F6XNOd

Typhoon Phanfone Kills at Least 41 in Philippines, Destroys Homes, Crops

Typhoon Phanfone killed at least 41 people when it slammed into the central Philippines on Christmas Eve, with dozens still injured or missing, according to the agency which oversees disaster response. The 21st cyclone to hit the Southeast Asian nation … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2sx5WZH

Thousands of Tourists Evacuated as Wildfires Sweep Through Southeast Australia

Thousands of holiday-makers have evacuated a popular tourist spot in southeast Australia as a heatwave and strong winds fuel wildfires sweeping through the region. But with temperatures hitting 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) Monday and blazes closing sections of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2SB2tUB

The Hilb Group Acquires Rhode Island’s Wickford Insurance Agency

The Hilb Group LLC (THG) has acquired Rhode Island-based Wickford Insurance Agency Inc. (WIA). The transaction became effective December 1, 2019. WIA is a full-service property and casualty insurance agency for businesses and individuals throughout Rhode Island. WIA’s associates will … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/366rlYa

18 Sickened After Private Function at Popular New Hampshire Restaurant

Eighteen people were sickened with a gastrointestinal illness after attending a private function last month at a restaurant co-owned by a Democratic congressman that’s popular with presidential candidates, state health officials said. People who became ill with norovirus attended the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2SOVR5h

Connecticut City Reaches $625K Settlement in Halfway House Lawsuit

A federal prison halfway house will not be built in Connecticut after a Pennsylvania-based nonprofit reached a $625,000 settlement in an ongoing lawsuit with the city of Norwalk. The city will pay $275,000 of the settlement while the city’s insurance … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37qlPA3

Financial Services Industry Must Act Faster on Climate Change: Bank of England Chief

Financial services have been too slow to cut investment in fossil fuels, a delay that could lead to a sharp increase in global temperatures, Bank of England Governor Mark Carney said in an interview broadcast on Monday. Carney, due to … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Q9yK3p

Why Small Business Liability Insurance Must Be Advanced Into the Digital Age

Liability insurance as we know it no longer suits a large fraction of today’s and tomorrow’s small-business owners. Brokers and insurers are at a crossroads on how to serve small businesses’ changing needs in the on-demand economy. The industry’s one-size-fits-all … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2ZD0Uab

California ‘Gig’ Worker Law Affects Employers Inside and Outside the State

A California law that makes it harder for companies to treat workers as independent contractors takes effect next week, forcing small businesses in and outside the state to rethink their staffing. The law puts tough restrictions on who can be … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37ntgba

China Will Begin in Earnest in 2020 to Open Its Great Financial Wall

China’s big bang opening of its $45 trillion financial industry begins in earnest next year — a step-by-step affair that’s unfolding just as economic strains threaten the promised windfall luring in global firms. Starting with its insurance and futures markets, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2tj3xla

Christmas Q&A with Michael Lawrence and Simon Mabb

Michael Lawrence, broker distribution and underwriting director at LV, considers the headlines of 2019 and Simon Mabb, group managing director at Romero Insurance Brokers, predicts those of 2020. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/37pyoLX

5 Alabama Construction Workers Injured in Work Site Floor Collapse

Firefighters rescued five construction workers who fell during a floor collapse at a work site near the University of Alabama campus Thursday. The workers were on the ground floor level at a site near Tutwiler Hall when the collapse occurred … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2SFoaCW

14 Killed on Georgia Roads Over Christmas Holiday

Georgia State Police announced Friday that 14 people were killed in car crashes over the Christmas holiday spanning from Tuesday evening to Thursday night. Last year, the number of fatalities were the same, although last year the holiday period was … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2QyKXxp

Doctor Claims Apple Watch Infringes His Heart Monitoring Technology Patent

A New York University cardiologist claims Apple Inc.’s Watch uses his patented heartbeat-monitoring invention and he wants compensation. Dr. Joseph Wiesel, who teaches at NYU School of Medicine, filed a suit Friday against the tech giant, in federal court in … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2tdKOI1

Court Upholds Insurers’ Auto Body Repair Networks Against Racketeering Claim

A federal appellate court affirmed a decision to throw out a racketeering lawsuit brought by a group of 126 auto body collision repair shops against seven of the largest U.S. insurers. The 11th Circuit Court of Appeals in Atlanta agreed … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Qv5R0r

Georgia Board Begins Work on State Medical Marijuana Rules

A new Georgia board has begun working to create rules and a distribution network for the sale of medical marijuana oil. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that the Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission held its first meeting Dec. 18. Medical … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2tfo3Dg

Tennessee Opens Insurance License Testing Centers in Rural Communities

The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI) has opened three new testing centers in rural Tennessee communities as part of its effort to better serve insurance agents and their customers in these areas, the department said in a statement. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2tccaOA

Agriculture Woes Cited for Lag in Personal Income Growth in Kansas

Personal income growth in Kansas is below the national average largely because of troubles in agriculture. Kansas farmers face an expanding drought and low commodity prices, though a break in an ongoing tariff dispute may bring those prices up. Agriculture … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2rBMYAI

New Limits on Lawsuits a Goal for Louisiana Republicans

After an election season in which conservative Republicans made Louisiana’s high car insurance rates a campaign issue, GOP lawmakers expect efforts to try to limit damages awarded in car wreck lawsuits to be front and center in the 2020 legislative … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2t5E3b2

California Man Choked Unconscious Can Sue Police, Court Rules

A California man can proceed to trial with a lawsuit against a police officer who choked him unconscious at a Las Vegas nightclub, a federal appeals court ruled this week. “It has long been clear that a police officer may … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2MxteWf

Former Oregon Officer Sues Officials Claiming Retaliation

A former Oregon police officer filed a lawsuit saying he faced retaliation within the department for reporting a former police chief struck him with his arm while holding a metal sign, court records said. Joseph Patnode is suing the Sunriver … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2QnGRZc

BP Alaska to Pay $125K Over Hazardous Waste Violations

BP Alaska agreed to pay a little more than $125,000 in fines over hazardous waste violations on Alaska’s North Slope, officials said. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced it reached the agreement with the Alaska arm of oil company BP … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2StpzMG

Wyoming Workplace Deaths Last Year Were Below Long-Term Trend

Thirty-one people died on the job in Wyoming in 2018, a rate slightly below average. Wyoming has averaged 33 workplace fatalities each year in data going back to 1992, according to the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services. About 61% of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2QmH4M4

Alaska Earthquake Sensors Require More Funding to Maintain

A project that maintains seismic monitoring stations in Alaska needs more funding to continue fully operating, officials said. Scientists, lawmakers and federal agencies are promoting the permanent installation of the Transportable Array Network, The Anchorage Daily News reported. The National … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/39iliBI

Danske Bank Sued by International Investors over Money Laundering Scandal

A group of international investors who manage trillions of dollars in assets has filed what it says is the first in a series of lawsuits against Danske Bank in connection with the money laundering scandal engulfing Denmark’s largest lender. The … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2EX2slJ

Extended Deadline for Insurance Journal’s Top P/C Agents

Insurance Journal is searching for the nation’s leading independent agents to become part of America’s Top Property/Casualty Agent listing. The deadline to submit is now extended to the end of day on Monday, Dec. 30. This is a listing of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2ZrsVRQ

Congress, FAA Reviewing ‘Disturbing’ Boeing Employee Communications on Safety

Boeing Co. documents under review by a U.S. congressional panel appear to point to a “very disturbing” picture of commentary from the planemaker’s employees over the grounded 737 MAX aircraft, a congressional aide said on Tuesday. The documents were submitted … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Sx7nlm

OSHA Reaches Settlement with Meat Supplier Following Safety Violations in N.J.

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has reached a settlement with Thomas Foods International after issuing citations for workplace safety and health violations at the company’s meat processing facility in Swedesboro, N.J. As part of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2rwChzf

Federal Disaster Aid Coming to 18 New York Counties Hit by Storm

Federal disaster aid is coming to 18 upstate New York counties that endured severe thunderstorms and flooding on Halloween, U.S. Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced Friday. The Federal Emergency Management Agency will provide public assistance funding to the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2ZxAB55

Connecticut City to Pay $5M to Settle Lawsuit Over Fatal School Stabbing

A Connecticut city will pay $5 million to the family of a teenage girl stabbed to death at her high school to settle a lawsuit alleging the district did not properly respond to threats posed by the killer, attorneys for … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Zraa0S

Piracy Surges Along Southeast Asia’s Straits of Malacca and Singapore

Piracy has surged this year along Southeast Asia’s straits of Malacca and Singapore, one of the world’s busiest trade routes, according to a watch group that tracks maritime security. Incidents along the shipping choke point have risen to 30, from … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2QnWiAt

Plane Operated by Bek Air Crashes in Kazakhstan, Killing 12, Injuring Dozens

A passenger plane carrying nearly 100 people crashed near the city of Almaty in Kazakhstan on Friday after take off, slamming into a house in an accident that killed 12 people and injured dozens. The Fokker 100 aircraft, operated by … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2ZsJMnm

Insured Property Losses for December 2018 Sydney Hailstorms Rise to A$798M: PERILS

The fourth and final insured property loss estimate for the hailstorms that hit the greater Sydney region in December 2018 rose to A$798 million ($553.2 million), according to PERILS, the independent Zurich-based organization that provides industry-wide catastrophe insurance data. This … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2QlYwAw

Christmas Q&A with Sarah Mallaby and Peter Blanc

Sarah Mallaby, director of broker markets at Allianz, reviews 2019 and Peter Blanc, group CEO at Aston Lark, looks ahead to 2020. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2sfy97l

Japan Post’s Insurance Sales Suspended by Regulator: Sources

Japan’s financial regulator ordered a three-month suspension of insurance sales by two units of Japan Post Holdings Co. as punishment for improper sales practices. The Financial Services Agency said it found examples of Japan Post customers being sold unduly expensive … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/39gBR1a

$584B at Risk From Cat Events in 2020: University of Cambridge Study

Providing an annual update of its study of the impact of catastrophic events on global GDP, researchers from the University of Cambridge find that roughly $584 billion could be wiped from the global economy from such events in 2020. According … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37bMFf2

Vetter Named VP, Branch Manager for Erie Insurance in Indiana

Bob Vetter has been appointed vice president and branch manager in the Indiana branch of property/casualty insurer Erie Insurance. Vetter joined ERIE as a commercial underwriter in 1993, later becoming district sales manager in Indiana. He has served as a … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2rvuxNY

Texas House Committee Hearing on Windstorm Insurance Legislation Set for Jan. 15

The insurance committee in the Texas House of Representatives will hold a hearing on Jan. 15 to consider the state of rulemaking and other governmental actions with regard to legislation passed in 2019 affecting Texas’ property insurer of last resort … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2t77Cc6

United Airlines Settles Sexual Harassment Claim Over Explicit Internet Posts by Captain

United Airlines has agreed to settle a sexual harassment lawsuit over a captain who continued to post explicit images of a flight attendant online without her consent even after the attendant complained. The airline will pay $321,000, plus attorney’s fees, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Qiw968

Why the Worst Case for Climate Change Doesn’t Look Realistic: Viewpoint

In recent years, much of the commentary about climate change has gone from sternly serious to wildly despairing. A new report from the United Nation’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change warns that the effects of climate change are accelerating and … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2t2nwEW

Employers Warned of Potential Wage-and-Hour Claims Under New Overtime Rule

Time is running out for employers to familiarize themselves with new federal rules on overtime pay. Starting January 1, the threshold for who is entitled to overtime pay — and who is not — changes. It’s the first change since … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2EU5vev

Long-Awaited U.S. Drone Safety Rules Call for Extensive Tracking Network

All but the smallest civilian drones would have to broadcast radio tracking data to ensure greater safety and prevent terrorism under a sweeping proposal unveiled by U.S. regulators Thursday. The long-awaited draft rules call for a massive new tracking network … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Zv4gvY

Must Gift Cards Be Available in Braille to Comply with ADA?

In this season of giving, nothing says I-waited-until-the-last-minute-and-didn’t-have-time-to-think-seriously-about-what-to-get like a gift card. In both their solid and virtual forms, the cards have become a ubiquitous sign of the holiday season. But does the law require that they be available in … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3989fHd

Vaping Lung Injury Cases Down; Link to Vitamin E Acetate Reinforced

Most patients stricken in a wave of vaping-related injuries had vitamin E acetate in their lungs, U.S. health officials found, reinforcing a suspected link between the compound and an outbreak that spurred a national debate about the safety of the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2roJtgN

Workers’ Comp Profits at Risk from Growing Competition, Lower Rates: A.M. Best

Workers’ compensation carriers’ ability to retain profitable accounts and maintain market share could be challenged due to declining rates and growing competition in the U.S., according to an A.M. Best report. Rate decreases across the United States have led to … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Su0jG2

Vietnam-Linked Hackers Steal Intellectual Property from Competitors: Experts

A Vietnam-based hacking group is learning from China’s playbook, using increasingly sophisticated cyber attacks to spy on competitors and help Vietnam catch up to global competitors, according to cyber-security experts. In the last two years, the group, which is believed … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/365JJQM

It’s Not Easy Getting Insurers to Defend in Sexual Harassment Cases

While Harvey Weinstein’s insurers have reportedly agreed to pay $47 million to settle civil suits against the movie producer, most policyholders should prepare for an epic legal battle just to get their insurers to defend them against accusations of sexual … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2F1CIVD

Vatican Tribunal Processes ‘Tsunami’ of Clergy Sex Abuse Complaints

The Vatican office responsible for processing clergy sex abuse complaints saw a record 1,000 cases reported from around the world this year – and still some regions that haven’t reported any allegations at all. The Congregation for the Doctrine of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/39brDyL

Sirius Expands Facultative Cover, Tapping Underwriters from Asia Capital Re

Bermuda-based Sirius International Insurance Group Ltd. announced it is expanding its facultative product offerings in the Asian region to better service its clients, beginning in early 2020. Through its office in Singapore, Sirius Group will onboard a team of key … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/34Y5zER

Japan Post’s Share Sale Faces Delays After Scandals at Insurance Unit: Sources

Japan’s government is considering holding off on its plan to sell about $10 billion worth of shares in Japan Post Holdings Co. through this fiscal year following scandals involving its insurance unit, according to people familiar with the situation. Concern … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/39du2cD

New York Tweaks Clean Water Plan as Suppliers Call for More Time

New York would not issue violations against certain water suppliers who notify the public that they have too-high levels of certain industrial and synthetic chemicals under the latest plan to be proposed by state regulators. Brad Hutton, deputy commissioner of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2SmUHh2

IICF Raises $1.14M at Annual Benefit Dinner Honoring Markel Corporation

The Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation (IICF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping communities and enriching lives, raised $1.14 million at its 13th Annual Northeast Benefit Dinner held December 11 at Cipriani in New York City. The event gathered more than … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2ZjrWmR

Massachusetts Auditor Says Revenue Department Needs to Better Protect Data

The Massachusetts Department of Revenue needs to do more to protect the security of taxpayer and business data, the state auditor said Monday. Auditor Suzanne Bump said an audit found the department was not prepared to respond to or mitigate … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/392Yx4R

Whistleblowing failures prompt regulatory intervention at Lloyd’s

PRA has laid down new rules after the Society of Lloyd’s disclosed that it had not maintained an anonymous whistleblowing channel for 16 months. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2PT4auM

Christmas Q&A with Andrew Alcock and Phil Bayles

Andrew Alcock, COO at TH March, reviews the events of 2019 and Phil Bayles, CDO at Aviva, outlines what we can expect from the New Year. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/35ROgWZ

Vaught Joins Alliant in Houston as Energy, Marine Advisor

Alliant Insurance Services has appointed Karey Vaught as executive vice president, managing director. Based in Houston, Vaught will provide insurance and risk advisory services to energy and marine clients across the United States. Vaught joins Alliant with expertise in midstream, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2PPisfT

Ohio Agents Honor Berg of Big ‘I’ with Industry Citation Award

Ohio Insurance Agents Association (OIA) has presented Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America’s Ron Berg with its Industry Citation Award. Berg has served as executive director of the Big “I” Agents Council for Technology (ACT) since 2013 and in … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2PQhWhC

TSLA, Austin Independent Agents Group Donate Food, Cash to Food Bank

The Independent Insurance Agents of Austin and the Texas Surplus Lines Association Inc. joined efforts in December to collect food and money for the Capital Area Food Bank located in Austin, Texas. Food and money were collected at the IIAA … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2PRsL3b

Underwriters and Insureds Taking Harder Look at Commercial Property Risks

Commercial property underwriters are adjusting to a market defined by rising catastrophe losses and dwindling profits. From increasing rates and higher deductibles to fewer classes of business and stricter underwriting, even the best in class properties are feeling the heat. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2PTRZ0N

Police Say City Employee Targeted Co-Worker in Deadly North Carolina Shooting

A deadly shooting at a city building in Winston-Salem, North Carolina was an act of “workplace violence” by one city employee who targeted a co-worker he’d disliked for a long time, police said Friday. Winston-Salem Police Chief Catrina Thompson told … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2tMOEbi

Coalition Adds California Consumer Protection Act Endorsement

San Francisco, Calif.-based Coalition, a cyber insurer for small and midsize businesses, has added an endorsement that broadens its coverage to protect against additional violations brought under California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). Coalition is offering the coverage to help businesses … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2PQerYA

Plymouth Rock Assurance Expands Home, Auto Coverage to New York

Plymouth Rock Assurance, a data-driven home and auto insurance provider in the Northeast, has expanded its home and auto insurance coverage to residents and agents in New York. This marks the first time the 37-year old insurance company has offered … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2SlkUMT

Diversity and Inclusion in Insurance Awards winner: Zurich's Maxine Goddard

Following last month's Diversity and Inclusion in Insurance Awards, we caught up with all the winners. Today, we feature the Race Equality Champion, Maxine Goddard, head of sales operations and planning at Zurich Insurance. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2PQs0Y8

Singer Marc Anthony’s Luxury Yacht Goes Up in Flames in Miami

A luxury yacht owned by singer Marc Anthony partially sank in Biscayne Bay after it was engulfed by a massive fire that took 45 firefighters nearly two hours to extinguish. No one was injured. The 120-foot (36.5-meter) boat was docked … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Zh5TgD

Notre Dame Fire Reveals Global Safety Lapse Over Dangers of Lead Dust

PARIS (AP) — It took a blaze that nearly destroyed Paris’ most famous cathedral to reveal a gap in global safety regulations for lead, a toxic building material found across many historic cities. After the Notre Dame fire in April … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2t0dAfa

GEICO CEO Roberts to Retire End of 2020; Berkshire Hathaway’s Combs to Succeed

Bill Roberts, GEICO’s president and chief executive officer, has announced that he will retire in December 2020 after 35 years with the insurer. Replacing Roberts as CEO will be Todd Combs, one of Berkshire Hathaway’s investment managers. Roberts, who turned … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/394zFJT

Australia’s Bushfires Destroy Nearly 200 Homes, Claim Another Life

Australia’s devastating wildfires, which at the weekend destroyed close to 200 homes and claimed another life, show no sign of abating and are poised to blight Christmas celebrations. Around 200 blazes were burning across the world’s driest inhabited continent on … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/392qOZn

How High Tech Competition Is Transforming NFL Helmets

Long gone are the days of the leather shell and single-bar face mask. Today’s football helmets are technological marvels, using cutting edge materials and design elements to make the headgear the safest it’s been in the 100th season of the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2ENv9S4

City of London’s Unity Begins Cracking over Brexit Trade Deal: Opinion

Boris Johnson’s triumphant U.K. election victory makes Brexit a near certainty next month. For the City of London, Britain’s split from its biggest trading partner is a huge leap into the unknown; one that will test its cohesion like never … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/34OylYl

Bipartisan Internet Privacy Proposal Calls for User OK to Share Data But Is Mum on Suits

A top House panel unveiled long-awaited draft privacy legislation that calls for limits on sharing consumers’ information and would allow users to correct their personal data. The draft, which also calls for the Federal Trade Commission to establish a new … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Qhsa9O

Aviva board divided over Tulloch restructure plans, reports state

Tulloch has decided to run the life and GI businesses as distinct divisions within Aviva, rather than separating them in different entities. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2EKCWA9

The Hartford Joins Insurers Limiting Fossil Fuel Investments, Underwriting

The Hartford became the latest insurance carrier to cut back on business it does with the fossil fuel industry out of concern over climate change. The company announced it will no longer insure or invest in companies that generate more … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Qbk3vz

U.S. Law Firms ‘Hounded’ Relatives of Ethiopian Airlines’ Crash Victims

Days after the March 10 crash of a Kenya-bound Ethiopian Airlines’ Boeing jet that killed all 157 people on board, strangers began calling or visiting bereaved families, saying they represented U.S. law firms. They showed up uninvited at memorials and … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Zmhw62

Bank of England Enhances Scrutiny of Lloyd’s Whistleblower Systems

The Bank of England has stepped up its monitoring of Lloyd’s of London’s whistleblowing systems, the central bank said on Monday, after reports this year about sexual harassment and bullying at the 330-year old insurance market. The Prudential Regulation Authority … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35QivOj

Guy Carpenter Appoints Schepens from Allianz as Benelux CEO

Guy Carpenter & Co., the reinsurance broker and subsidiary of Marsh & McLennan Cos., announced the appointment of Patrick Schepens as CEO of the Benelux region, effective April 2020. Schepens will be responsible for all of Guy Carpenter’s activities in … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Q6f1jK

Venice Hotels Suffer Nearly $34M in Damages from November’s Floods

Venice’s hoteliers association estimates that the city’s hotels suffered about 30 million euros ($34 million) worth of structural damage during November’s floods. The overall losses, though, are higher after adding in the lower revenues that local hotels have reported in … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Sh2OeO

Jimcor Agency Hires Emanuel as Property and Casualty Brokerage Specialist in Pennsylvania

Jimcor Agency Inc., an independent managing general agency and insurance wholesaler, has hired Ed Emanuel as a property and casualty brokerage specialist for the Western Pennsylvania office located in Pittsburgh, Penn. Emanuel is an insurance professional with a background over … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2EKAvOb

Retrial Decision Due Next Year in Triple-Fatal 1995 Pittsburgh Arson

A federal judge is slated to decide next year on a second trial in the case of a man accused of having set a Pittsburgh fire that killed three firefighters almost a quarter of a century ago. Gregory Brown, 42, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2ZeOWn1

DuPont Asks Delaware Judge to Toss Chemours Environmental Liabilities Suit

The DuPont Co. is asking a Delaware judge to dismiss a lawsuit claiming that it massively downplayed the cost of environmental liabilities that Chemours would be saddled with when DuPont spun off its former performance chemicals unit. An attorney for … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2PMQ26d

Amanda Blanc named chair of Welsh Professional Rugby Board

Role is the first non-insurance appointment for Blanc since returning to the industry earlier this month. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/34QALWr

2019 in review: the year's top stories

This year's top stories featured MS Amlin, Tokio Marine Kiln, Marsh Commercial, Ardonagh, Gallagher and Amanda Blanc. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2SpYSsx

Paying It Forward: ‘Bill Of The Month’ Series, A Vital Toolkit For Patients, Wraps Year 2

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Use Our Content This story can be republished for free ( details ). Send Us Your Medical Bill Do you have an exorbitant or baffling medical bill? Join the KHN and NPR ‘Bill of the Month’ Club and tell us about your experience. We’ll feature a new one each month. Submit Your Bill In 2018, KHN and NPR launched “Bill of the Month,” a crowdsourced investigation in which we dissect, investigate and explain medical bills you send us. In telling the story behind one patient’s bill each month, our goal is to understand the genesis of the often exorbitant and baffling charges that pervade the American medical system. Bill Of The Month Resources Read More This year, we’ve delved into patients’ predicaments from pricey treatments for cat bites and snakebites, to the crippling costs of medical gear ($882 for a knee brace) and high-priced high tech (a $540,842 bill for dialysis, $4,836 for laughing gas during childbirth). The lessons learned each month help “pay it f...

U.S. E-Cigarette Regulation Has Been Delayed for Years

As the Federal Drug Administration pressures e-cigarette firms to stamp out youth vaping, the agency faces criticism itself for failing to rein in the fast-growing industry after years of bureaucratic delays dating back to the Obama administration. Despite recent tough … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2ZqQJFL

Cox Communications Found Liable for $1 Billion for Infringing Music Copyrights

A U.S. District Court jury last Thursday found telecom company Cox Communications Inc. liable to pay $1 billion to music labels and publishers over piracy infringement on more than 10,000 works. Over 50 music companies, including Sony Music, Warner Music … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35Rru1x

U.S. Government Backs Bayer in Bid to Overturn Roundup Cancer Verdict

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Justice Department said a federal appeals court should reverse a lower court verdict finding Bayer AG liable in the case of a California man who blamed its Roundup weed killer for his cancer. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2EHlpJf

Tennessee Approves 7% Decrease for Workers’ Comp Rates

Workers’ compensation rates in Tennessee will go down again next year, marking the seventh consecutive year of decreases, according to the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance. Commissioner Hodgen Mainda approved a 7.1 percent overall loss cost decrease for 2020 … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2QijuQO

BRP Group to Acquire Lanier Upshaw of Florida

BRP Group, Inc., an independent insurance distribution firm based in Florida, announced that Baldwin Krystyn Sherman Partners, LLC, a subsidiary of BRP Group, has entered into an agreement to acquire substantially all assets of Lanier Upshaw, Inc, a Lakeland, Florida-based … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/34KnBu5

PG&E Creditors Sweet Offer to California Wildfire Victims With $13.5 Billion Upfront

PG&E Corp.’s creditors have sweetened their offer to California wildfire victims, saying they are now prepared to pay $13.5 billion in cash upfront, according to a letter sent on Friday to state governor Gavin Newsom. Current terms of the settlement … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2riHQ4b

$1.45 Trillion U.S. Spending Bills with Flood, Terrorism Insurance Renewals Goes to President Trump

The Senate yesterday went along with House measures that fund the military and rest of the federal government through next September. The government funding measure includes two provisions of particular interest to the property/casualty insurance industry: a reauthorization of the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2ZbP9ah

Ascot Appoints Walter as Executive VP and Head of Cyber & Commercial E&O

Ascot has appointed Drew Walter as executive vice president and head of Cyber & Commercial E&O. Also joining the team are Tracy O’Hara, Abigail Oliver, Greg Garijanian and Ben Mancuso. Based in New York, Walter will build a business writing … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2EFG6Fc

Munich Re Group Agrees to Buy Manhattan Skyscraper

Munich Re Group, advised by MEAG, has agreed to acquire the 330 Madison Avenue building in New York City. The 39 story high-rise dates from 1963 and was designed by Ely Jacques Kahn, one of the fathers of the New … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35I4sKh

How Car Makers Are Doing with Voluntary Accord to Install Automatic Braking Systems

Three years ahead of schedule, four vehicle manufacturers— Tesla, Volvo, Audi and Mercedes— have already met their voluntary commitment under an agreement to equip virtually all of their new passenger vehicles with low-speed automatic emergency braking systems that includes forward … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/371eve1

Mass. High Court Upholds Consent-to-Settle Clause in Malpractice Policy

Massachusetts’ highest court on Monday rejected arguments that consent-to-settle clauses in professional malpractice insurance policies violate public policy. The Supreme Judicial Court sided with CNA subsidiary Continental Casualty Co. in an engineering malpractice lawsuit brought against homeowners Douglas and Kristen … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2MgXuVb

Insured Losses in 2019 Estimated at $56B, Down from $93B Last Year: Swiss Re

Global insured losses in 2019 dropped to an estimated US$56 billion, from US$93 billion in 2018 and below the annual average (US$75 billion) of the previous 10 years, according to preliminary sigma estimates from Swiss Re Institute. During the year, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2PEuNU5

Canadian Lab Test Firm, LifeLabs, Pays Ransom After Data Breach

Lab test provider LifeLabs said Tuesday that it paid a ransom to secure data for Canadians that was stolen in a data breach in late October. Hackers also obtained personal information of an unknown number of the company’s 15 million … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35KsS6e

Legacy Acquirer DARAG Completes Portfolio Transfer with Germany’s SOVAG

DARAG Group Ltd., the Malta-based legacy acquirer, announced it has closed the portfolio transfer with German re/insurer SCHWARZMEER UND OSTSEE Versicherungsaktiengesellschaft (SOVAG), following the receipt of all regulatory approvals. The direct insurance and inwards reinsurance business within the legacy portfolio … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/36U5Olt

Deadly Danish Train Accident Caused by Improperly Secured Trailer: Report

Danish authorities say a deadly accident in which a high-speed passenger train struck a semi-trailer that fell off a freight train coming in the opposite direction, happened because the unit wasn’t properly secured. Denmark’s Accident Investigation Board, known by its … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35Fx2ME

Tradewise cans Gibraltar operations amid UK capacity deal

New capacity deal will see Tradewise continue to write motor business in the UK into 2020. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/35FgzrO

U.K. Business Executives, Economists, Politicians React to New BoE Boss Bailey

Britain’s new government named Andrew Bailey as the next Bank of England boss on Friday. Following is reaction to his appointment. LIZ MARTINS, UK ECONOMIST, HSBC “In terms of Mr Bailey’s position on the dove-hawk spectrum, it is very hard … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38Ur9x0

U.K. Names Bailey as Bank of England Chief, Succeeding Carney

Andrew Bailey will be the next head of the Bank of England after the government chose to replace Mark Carney with the U.K.’s top financial regulator, just as Britain faces the next phase of Brexit. He’ll start on March 16, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2txCX88

2019 in review: December’s top stories

This month brought about the return of Amanda Blanc to insurance as she accepted roles at Aviva, ERS, and Trov. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2Sc5gmM

Citizens to Evaluate Policyholder Count as Florida Market Conditions Tighten

Florida’s insurer of last resort Citizens Property Insurance Corporation will make shrinking its policyholder count a priority next year, despite potential headwinds that may come from Florida domestic carriers raising rates and restricting coverage. Prompted by the request of Florida … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2MfekUb

Texas Regulators Want Stiffer Penalty for Owner of Port Neches Plant That Exploded

Environmental and watchdog groups have long criticized the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality for taking it too easy on polluters — and the TCEQ has often countered that its job is to coax industrial facilities into compliance rather than slap … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/34BkTXv

Cedar Rapids Proposes $3M Settlement in Suit Over Traffic Camera Ticket Fines

Thousands of people whose state income tax refunds were withheld to pay Cedar Rapids, Iowa, traffic camera tickets would get refunds under a proposed $3 million lawsuit settlement. The City Council learned on Dec. 17 that the city also would … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2MfEpm2

Louisiana’s Fidelis Group Holdings Promotes 3 in Claims Division

Fidelis Group Holdings LLC (FGH), a Covington, Louisiana-based provider of marine insurance coverage and services, has made three key promotions in its claims division, Fidelis Claims Service LLC (FCS). Christian Kelly has been named head of Claims. An attorney with … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35IzMJ1

Reuters Report: Why Big Business Can Count on Courts to Keep Deadly Secrets

In the dreary archives of a Newark, New Jersey, courthouse, Ronald Motley found a treasure map. It was an evidence log, a detailed inventory of documents and other exhibits that had been used in an injured worker’s lawsuit. And it … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Maq0aQ

Newly Opened Pothole Damages 30 Cars in Florida

As many as 30 vehicles were damaged when they hit a pothole that opened up in the center lane of Interstate 4 near Orlando on Tuesday night, the Florida Highway Patrol said. Troopers and officers from other agencies responded to … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2ECI3Cl

Greene to Help Expand Ascot Management Liability, Financial Institutions Group in Atlanta

Ascot has appointed Crystal Greene as senior vice president, head of Management Liability. Greene will lead Ascot’s commercial D&O and related product business in the U.S from Atlanta. She joins Ascot with 25 years of experience – 17 years with … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2EApQFz

Democrats Debate Whether Medicare for All Is ‘Realistic’

In the end, literally, the candidates returned to health care. The sixth Democratic presidential debate on Thursday is likely to be best remembered for its sharp exchanges over campaign finance and a glistening fundraiser in a Napa Valley wine cave . But just before their closing statements, after lengthy discussions of impeachment, climate change and human rights in China, the seven candidates who qualified for the last debate of 2019 talked about the practicality of sweeping health care reform — specifically, “Medicare for All.” In light of the Obama administration’s challenges passing the Affordable Care Act nearly a decade ago, former Vice President Joe Biden was asked about the likelihood of being able to replace the nation’s existing health care with a single-payer system. “I don’t think it is realistic,” he replied. Email Sign-Up Subscribe to KHN’s free Morning Briefing. Sign Up Please confirm your email address below: Sign Up Biden noted that Amer...

Allstate to Retire Esurance Brand

Allstate is retiring its Esurance brand and combining its remaining Allstate, Encompass and Answer Financial personal lines brands under a single business model. The company says dropping Esurance and creating the new business model will lower costs and allow it … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2rfk9tG

Outlooks for Safeway Insurance Group Members Revised to Stable

AM Best has revised the outlooks to stable from negative and affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a” of the members of Safeway Insurance Group (Safeway). Safeway is composed of four … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Zhlj4B

Hiscox’s Rubin Joins Liberty Specialty Markets as Head of Terrorism Underwriting

Liberty Specialty Markets (LSM) has appointed Jennifer Rubin to a newly-created role as senior underwriting executive and head of Terrorism Underwriting in North America. Rubin was formerly senior vice president, head of Property and Terrorism at Hiscox USA, and has … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/34EfYoW

Supreme Court to Weigh Scope of Religious Shield from Employee Bias Claims

The U.S. Supreme Court agreed to consider giving religious organizations a bigger exemption from discrimination suits, accepting appeals from two Roman Catholic grade schools fighting bias claims after firing teachers. The appeals by Our Lady of Guadalupe School in Los … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/36Oca5V

PG&E, Gov. Newsom Split Over State Takeover Authority

A clause that would allow California to take over bankrupt utility giant PG&E Corp. under certain circumstances has emerged as a big sticking point in negotiations between the company and Governor Gavin Newsom. Newsom wants the power company to include … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2PCz5LP

MS Amlin to Exit U.K. P/C Classes as Part of Underwriting Review

MS Amlin, the London-based re/insurer, said it will cease underwriting corporate property, real estate, casualty and package binders through its U.K. P/C business with effect from Jan. 31, 2020. This announcement follows the outcome of MS Amlin’s comprehensive underwriting review … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38ULe6j

Christmas Q&A: David Martin and Ashwin Mistry

David Martin, head of retail management at Zurich UK, looks back at 2019 and Ashwin Mistry, chairman at Brokerbility, looks forward to 2020. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2PGxnJr

Airlines Liable for Hot Drink Burns During Flights, EU Court Rules

Airlines are liable for a hot drink accidentally spilled and hurting a passenger, the European Union’s top court said in a dispute involving a carrier founded by the late-Formula One motor-racing champion Niki Lauda. “An airline is liable for the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38V6CIP

S&P Assigns A- Rating to Fidelis Insurance Units; Holding Company at BBB

Noting the proven track record of its management team and strong top-line growth in a five-year time frame, S&P Global Ratings has assigned A- financial strength ratings to the operating units of Fidelis Insurance Holding Ltd. S&P also assigned a … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2sFmQFc

MS Amlin sets date for UK property and casualty exit

Provider previously announced its decision to withdraw from the market in September 2019. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/35CFWdJ

Heatwave Gripping Australia Exacerbates Devastating Bushfires

Australia’s most-populous state has declared an emergency as a heatwave that’s produced the hottest day on record exacerbates devastating bushfires. New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian warned of extreme wind conditions and surging temperatures that would make efforts to battle … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2PYCNhL

Chinese Hacking Group Resumes Global Attacks on Companies, Agencies

A Chinese government-linked hacking group that was thought to be dormant has been quietly targeting companies and government agencies for the last two years, harvesting data after stealing passwords and circumventing two-factor authentication intended to prevent such attacks, according to … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Z3qPrf

Alibaba Unveils Management Changes Including CEO for Ant Financial

Alibaba Group Holdings Ltd. and finance affiliate Ant Financial unveiled a series of management changes, including a new chief executive officer for Ant, as they seek to boost expansion overseas and tighten coordination between the two operations. Ant Financial, the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/36Mz3Xt

West Texas Insurance Exchange Acquired by Alera Group

Alera Group, an independent national insurance brokerage and wealth management firm, has acquired West Texas Insurance Exchange Inc., located in Odessa, Texas. West Texas Insurance Exchange serves the insurance needs of many businesses throughout Texas and across the United States. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Q3ySA2

2019 in review: November's top stories

The closure of 14 branches by Marsh Commercial caught the attention of readers in November, as Insurance Age announced the Top 100 independent brokers for 2019. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2rSbRZb

Texas Business Owner Must Pay $50K in Restitution in Work Comp Fraud Case

The owner of a South Texas truck stop has been ordered to pay $50,000 in restitution after pleading guilty to workers’ compensation fraud. James Russell Williams owns George West Truck Stop pleaded guilty in a Travis County District Court, according … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38VDOQ8

Yahr to Retire from Michigan’s J.M. Wilson After 42 Years

Portage, Michigan-based J.M. Wilson announced the end of an era with the retirement of Betty Yahr, senior property/casualty underwriter. Yahr, whose last day is Dec. 20, has been with J.M. Wilson Corporation for over 42 years holding numerous titles throughout … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38SlOX4

Louisiana Transportation Department to Implement New Roadwork Safety Measures

Louisiana’s transportation department will boost safety measures at its roadwork sites, the agency’s secretary announced at a ceremony honoring an employee killed on the job this summer. Department of Transportation and Development Secretary Shawn Wilson said that the agency will … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2PyHKyJ

Industry Balks at Trump Rule to Let States Import Drugs from Canada

The Trump administration on Wednesday said it is proposing a rule to allow states to import prescription drugs from Canada, advancing a plan announced in July that the president has said will bring cheaper prescription drugs to Americans. Importation of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2PAy8Dv

Neptune Flood of Florida Hires Eckstein as Executive Director

Florida-based insurtech, Neptune Flood Incorporated has hired Jean-Luc Eckstein has been hired as executive director. Eckstein joins Neptune Flood from Fortune 500 technology provider, CDW, where he sold software and hardware directly to some large companies in the United States … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2M9igpC

Kim Kardashian West Sues Alabama Doctor over ‘Vampire Facial’

Reality TV star and businesswoman Kim Kardashian West is suing an Alabama doctor over claims he wrongly used her image to promote a medical procedure called a “Vampire Facial.” West filed suit Tuesday in Los Angeles against Dr. Charles Runels … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Zds1Zn

Chubb Launches Financial Institution Fidelity Bond for Asset Managers

Chubb has introduced a new fidelity insurance product, the Financial Institution Bond for Asset Managers, to address risks faced by today’s asset managers. The financial fidelity bond provides modernized coverage for a range of risks that can result in loss … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2PZalfN

4 Dead After Storms Leave ‘Trail of Destruction’ Across the South

A swarm of tornadoes and storms that left a trail of destruction across the Southeast killed four people, injured at least a dozen more and left victims to bundle up against the cold as they picked up pieces of their … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Z0DBa3

Uber Settles Sexual Harassment Claims in $4.4M Deal with EEOC

Under an agreement with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), transportation firm Uber Technologies will establish a $4.4 million fund to compensate anyone who the EEOC determines experienced sexual harassment or related retaliation after Jan. 1, 2014. The settlement resolves … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2M9eHjc

Court Nixes Obamacare Mandate But Punts on Whether Entire Law Is Invalid

A U.S. appeals court ruled on Wednesday that a component of the Obamacare law is unconstitutional, but dodged a major ruling by stopping short of declaring that the rest of the landmark 2010 healthcare statute must also be struck down. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/34zjH7g

Vermont Bar Owners Settle Lawsuit with Woman Injured in Shooting

The owners of a Vermont bar settled a case Monday with a woman who was accidentally shot in the lung outside their establishment in 2018. Chelsi Parker, 26, and the owners of Nectar’s bar in Burlington resolved a lawsuit through … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2EwZJzm

The Philadelphia Contributionship Hires Greenfield as President and CEO

The Philadelphia Contributionship (TPC) has hired Thomas Greenfield as president and CEO. Greenfield is taking over the mantle from Robert Whitlock, Jr., who was appointed president and CEO in 2009. Whitlock will retire later this year. Greenfield will provide strategic … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2M7Cj7H

Starr Taps Swiss Re’s Nawrath as Underwriting Manager for New Aviation Unit in Germany

Starr Insurance Cos. announced the appointment of Carsten Nawrath as Aviation underwriting manager, leading the build-out of a new Aviation insurance operation based in Munich, Germany. The operation will write aerospace and general aviation business for clients across Central Europe. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35zAE2p

Penn National Insurance Announces Executive Leadership Successions

Penn National Insurance President and CEO Christine Sears will transition on January 1 to CEO, and Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Robert B. Brandon will become president on that date. Sears also announced that she plans to retire … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/36FJH2a

British Accountants Under Pressure to Do More to Detect Fraud at Companies

British accountants could be required to look for fraud at companies they audit under proposals made in a government-backed review of recent corporate scandals which went undetected. Lawmakers called for a shake-up of auditing after the collapses of construction company … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38TFqKc

Holiday Parties for Health, Liability-Conscious Wall Street Firms Feature Smoothies, Yoga

Fruit smoothies may become the new martini for Wall Street holiday parties. Banking and trading firm BTIG LLC, for example, cut alcohol from its annual employee celebration on Dec. 12 at its New York offices. Instead, guests did yoga and … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2M93LC3

CBS-TV Sued by Producer of ’60 Minutes’ Alleging Gender Bias and Retaliation

An associate producer on the CBS current affairs TV show “60 Minutes” filed a lawsuit on Tuesday alleging gender discrimination and retaliation by the company after she complained about inappropriate conduct by her boss. In the complaint, filed in New … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/36OY5VT

Irish Plane Lessor Seeks $185M from Boeing for 737 MAX-Related Losses

An Ireland-based plane lessor sued Boeing Co. on Tuesday for breaching a contract for 22 of the U.S. planemaker’s 737 MAX aircraft and sought a compensation of $185 million. Timaero Ireland Ltd. cited design flaws in Boeing’s best-selling aircraft, which … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Z2fWGa

Bankruptcy Judge Approves $13.5B PG&E Deal with California Wildfire Victims

A U.S. bankruptcy judge approved on Tuesday PG&E Corp.’s $13.5 billion settlement with victims of Californian wildfires, and the company’s stock rallied as the utility gained momentum to emerge from bankruptcy in June as planned. “I don’t think we’ve heard … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2M9nZfb

Cigna Sells Group Disability Insurance Business to New York Life in $6.3 Billion Deal

Health insurer Cigna Corp. said on Wednesday it had agreed to sell its disability insurance and accidental death coverage unit for company employees to New York Life Insurance Co for $6.3 billion. The company said it expects to use the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Eu1Y6D

Zaffino Assumes Added Role of President at AIG

American International Group (AIG) has named Peter S. Zaffino as president, effective Jan. 1, 2020. Zaffino will continue to serve as global chief operating officer of AIG and chief executive officer of General Insurance. Brian Duperreault, AIG chief executive officer, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2YZeFQ0

Blog: Are diversity and inclusion initiatives succeeding?

In a turbulent year that has seen industry bosses called out as racist and sexist, Chartered Insurance Institute CEO Sian Fisher considers how the sector has performed when it comes to improving diversity and inclusion. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2S6jHJ8

UK Financial Services Sector Remains Resilient Ahead of Brexit: Research

Britain’s exports of financial and related services rose to 83 billion pounds ($106.5 billion) last year, with the European Union still the biggest customer, underscoring the importance of retaining market access to the bloc after Brexit. The latest figures compiled … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Z7xqB6

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Acquires Canada’s SBW Employee Benefits

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co., the Rolling Meadows, Ill.-based broker, announced the acquisition of Halifax, Nova Scotia-based Sinclair Billard and Weld Ltd., and CJM Solutions + Inc., which do business under the name of SBW Employee Benefits. Terms of the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/36L8Gkt

Listen: The Cost Of PrEP, The HIV Prevention Pill

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Can’t see the audio player?  Click here to listen. This story also ran on Vox . This story can be republished for free ( details ). KHN correspondent Shefali Luthra joined a discussion on the Vox podcast “Today, Explained” about the cost dynamics surrounding pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP, a game-changing drug that prevents the transmission of HIV. Gilead Sciences — the manufacturer of the brand-name versions of this preventive medicine, such as Truvada and Descovy — seeks to extend its patent but faces pushback from federal lawmakers, including Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.). Luthra has reported on how public health officials whose efforts to increase access to the HIV prevention pill for those at risk have faced roadblocks: the drug’s price tag, which has surged in recent years, and changes in insurance coverage that put a heftier financial burden on patients. from Insurance – Kaiser Health News https://ift.tt/2S66sIq

2019 in review: October's top stories

Readers were most interested by the decision of MS Amlin to exit nine lines of business following a strategy review. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2M4WpPW

Wisconsin’s SECURA Insurance Promotes Thiel, Heyroth

SECURA Insurance in Neenah, Wisconsin, has promoted Todd Thiel to vice president-chief information officer and Tim Heyroth to vice president-chief sales officer. The promotions are effective Jan. 1, 2020. Thiel joined SECURA in 2015 as vice president-Information Technology. He has … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2EG4w1D

W.R. Berkley Corp. Forms Captive Insurer in North Carolina

W.R. Berkley Corporation has formed Oak Harbor Reinsurance Co. (Oak Harbor Re), a protected cell captive insurance company, which was licensed by the N.C. Department of Insurance on Nov. 25. According to the North Carolina Department of Insurance, Oak Harbor … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2EuslcE

Brown & Brown Acquires Insurance Management Group of South Carolina

J. Scott Penny, chief acquisitions officer of Brown & Brown, Inc., and Mark K. Ackerman, the sole shareholder of Insurance Management Group, Inc. (IMG), announced that Brown & Brown of South Carolina, Inc. has acquired substantially all of the assets … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2EqrGc9

United Valley Insurance Services in California Adds Burnett

United Valley Insurance Services Inc. has named Genna Burnett a marketing specialist. Burnett is focused on assisting members on marketing and placing workers’ compensation accounts with carriers. She previously worked as an underwriter at Employers Insurance, and prior to that … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35xZEHj

Hotel Chains Sued for Knowing and Ignoring Warning Signs of Sex Trafficking on Premises

Landmark U.S. legal action was filed last Monday (Dec. 9) accusing several major hotel groups of profiting from sex trafficking on behalf of 13 women who claimed they were sold for sex in hotel rooms. Twelve hotel chains were named … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2sCe7DF

California and PG&E Reach $1.7B Deal on Wildfire Penalties

California utility regulators have reached a settlement with PG&E Corp. over violations tied to catastrophic wildfires ignited by the company’s power lines in 2017 and 2018. The proposed settlement would prevent PG&E from recovering $1.625 billion in wildfire-related costs from … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2PuGaxV

Judge Rules U.S. Army Engineers May Be Liable for Hurricane Harvey Floods

Hundreds of Houston homeowners near U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-managed reservoirs may receive compensation for flooding of their properties during 2017’s Hurricane Harvey, a federal judge ruled on Tuesday. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACE), which managed two dams … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38LAhE1

SAN Group Hires Blatchley as Agency Development Field Specialist

Satellite Agency Network Group Inc. (SAN) has hired Nick Blatchley as agency development field specialist for Western New York and Northwestern Pennsylvania. In this role, Blatchley will be directly responsible for agency development and consulting services of SAN member agencies, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35xiuhN

Dartmouth Student Lawsuit Settled Over Baseball Injury

A lawsuit filed by a Dartmouth College student against the school who was seriously injured during baseball practice has been settled, the college said Monday. Last year, Colton French said in federal court documents that he was pitching to a … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38QkbJh

Delaware Attorney General Loses Appeal Bid in Opioid Lawsuit

The state Supreme Court has refused a request by Delaware’s attorney general to review a judge’s decision dismissing Walgreens as a defendant in Delaware’s lawsuit against the drug industry over the opioid crisis. The court issued a ruling Wednesday saying … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2tn3o0c

Large New Jersey Hospital System Says It Was Hit by Ransomware Attack

New Jersey’s largest hospital system said Friday that a ransomware attack last week disrupted its computer network and that it paid a ransom to stop it. Hackensack Meridian Health did not say in its statement how much it paid to … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38P7HSo

British Watchdog FCA Probes Data Sharing in Financial Services

Britain’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is investigating whether sharing data with outside competitors could be extended beyond banks to savings, insurance, mortgages, investments, pensions and consumer credit to increase innovation and choice. “Open banking” rules already allow payment companies and … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/34wqbDC

Pirates Attack Oil Tanker in West Africa, Kidnapping Another Crew

An oil tanker was attacked on Sunday in West Africa’s Gulf of Guinea and most of its crew were kidnapped, the latest in a string of incidents highlighting the security risks to shipping in the region. The vessel — an … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2qZKQCq

Ed Bermuda Taps Simons from Marsh as Head of Business Development

Ed, the London-based reinsurance, wholesale and specialty broker, announced the appointment of Mark Simons as head of Business Development and Production, Bermuda. Simons, who joins in January 2020, will focus on developing and fostering client relationships. He previously worked at … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Q0q0LU

New UK Broker McGill & Partners Grows Rapidly in First 6 Months of Trading

New boutique risk solutions business McGill and Partners has grown rapidly in its first six months of trading following “a successful talent acquisition strategy and significant client wins,” the company said. Headcount has grown from five to 134, and the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2YUyBDT

FCA launches call for input on open finance

Regulator is looking to extend the principles of open banking to other sectors including general insurance. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2PS1wEh

Blog: Is it curtains for net-rated products?

Ann Peel, technical consultant at Insurance Compliance Services, discusses the potential impact of the FCA's latest interventions. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2PreMRg

There’s a 60,000-Year-Old Method to Help Battle Australia’s Bushfires

Australia’s indigenous people say the bushfire-ravaged country is paying the price for ignoring their expertise in managing the ecology of the world’s-driest inhabited continent. The fires have already burned more than 6 million acres — an area the size of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/34vBz2A

Despite Quick Fixes, Kaiser Permanente Mental Health Care Still Lags

Editor’s note: Kaiser Health News is an editorially independent program of the Kaiser Family Foundation that is not affiliated with Kaiser Permanente. OAKLAND, Calif. — After years of state sanctions and fines, Kaiser Permanente claims it has gone a long way toward improving its mental health care. The national managed-care giant — California’s largest insurer with 9 million members — touts more than 1,200 therapist hires since 2016, improved patient access to appointments and an expanded training program for mental health professionals. Regulators at California’s Department of Managed Health Care report that Kaiser is meeting the benchmarks laid out in a 2017 settlement agreement that resulted from two years of negotiations. But interviews with dozens of Kaiser Permanente therapists, patients and industry experts paint a more troubling picture of superficial gains that look good on paper but do not translate into more effective and accessible care. Many Kaiser patients still strugg...