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Showing posts from January, 2020

Personal Info Possibly Compromised for 1,100 Insurance Users in Connecticut

The personal information and Social Security numbers of about 1,100 users of Connecticut’s state health insurance marketplace might have been compromised after a security breach last fall, officials said. Access Health CT users affected by the email security breach will … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38V20Bt

Kobe Bryant’s Death Throws Spotlight on Crash-Warning System

The crash that killed nine people including Kobe Bryant has led to calls for crash-warning systems to be installed in more helicopters, but regulators and pilots worry that the instrument can trigger too many alarms and prove distracting. “Another warning … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2RKKV7O

Delaware Court Says Insurance Doesn’t Cover Attacker in School Fight

Delaware’s Supreme Court has overturned a judge’s ruling that an insurance company must extend liability coverage to a teenager who was convicted of criminally negligent homicide after a school bathroom attack that left a 16-year-old girl dead. Wednesday’s ruling reverses … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2RKYtQp

IGI Gets Regulatory Nod from Bermuda After Merger with Tiberius Acquisition

International General Insurance Holdings Ltd. (IGI) announced it has received regulatory approval from the Bermuda Monetary Authority in connection with its previously announced business combination with Tiberius Acquisition Corp., a publicly traded special purpose acquisition company. This approval, received on … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/31dK8PI

Woodruff Sawyer Names Milano as Vice President of Management Liability

Woodruff Sawyer, an insurance brokerage in the U.S., has named Teresa Milano as vice president of Management Liability, effective immediately. Milano joins the Boston, Mass., office of Woodruff Sawyer, where she’s focusing on Woodruff Sawyer’s management liability practice comprised of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/36IXrbZ

Pennsylvania’s Graham Company Hires McIntire as Chief Technology Officer

Graham Company, based in Philadelphia, Penn., has hired Michael McIntire as chief technology officer, in which he will lead the development of Graham’s technology strategy and manage its execution. In this role, McIntire will work to develop solutions for employees … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2S96Kwr

Maryland’s Wye River Insurance Appoints Santarelli as President

Wye River Insurance has appointed Katherine Santarelli as president, leading day-to-day operations and providing strategic brokering and consulting services for the newly-formed insurance brokerage. The Baltimore, Md.-based boutique brokerage serves real estate and construction professionals in the multifamily industry. Santarelli … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/31eUChz

The Insurance Age Podcast: 31 January 2020

Laurence Eastham and Ida Axling discuss the most popular news stories this week, including changes at Marsh Commercial and Hiscox moving 300 staff out of London. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2OdTVQq

R&Q’s Accredited Completes Portfolio Transfer from Lansen Försäkringsaktiebolag

Randall & Quilter Investment Holdings Ltd. (R&Q) announced that its wholly owned subsidiary Accredited Insurance (Europe) Ltd. has completed the transfer of business from Sweden’s Lansen Försäkringsaktiebolag, a wholly owned subsidiary of SAAB Aktiebolag. The transfer will help to enable … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/36Lxcll

Global Coronavirus Cases Soar to 10,000 as WHO Declares Health Emergency

The U.K. confirmed its first two cases of coronavirus on Friday, while the U.S. and Japan advised citizens to avoid traveling to China. Singapore suspended visas issued to Chinese citizens. Stocks fell in Europe and Asia as the virus continued … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37FRxtv

Integro Announces Beard Is Stepping Down as CEO of Specialist Broker RFIB

Integro Insurance Brokers Holdings Ltd., the parent of UK-based firm Risk Transfer Group (RTG), which trades under the RFIB brand, announced that Steven Beard, CEO of RFIB will be stepping down, effective immediately. On Jan. 1, 2020, Integro completed its … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/319utRw

In Person: Markel UK’s Neil Galjaard and Nic Brown

Neil Galjaard, divisional managing director, and Nic Brown, sales and marketing director, tell Insurance Age why organisational restructures and sustainable pricing mean they welcome a hardening market. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2uN7YWm

Most U.K. Insurers, Banks Unprepared for Risks of Climate Change

The Bank of England faces an uphill climb to get the finance industry ready for one of its biggest threats: the climate. About 80% of senior finance executives believe their firms “lack well-developed strategies to manage the risks of climate … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2S3JdgI

5 Things To Know About Trump’s Medicaid Block Grant Plan

The Trump administration unveiled a plan Thursday that would dramatically revamp Medicaid by allowing states to opt out of part of the current federal funding program and instead seek a fixed payment each year in exchange for gaining unprecedented flexibility over the program. Medicaid, a federal-state health program that covers 1 in 5 Americans, has been an open-ended entitlement since its beginning in 1965. That means the amount of money provided by the federal government grows with a rise in enrollment and health costs. The administration said the new program would allow states to offer patients more benefits while controlling government spending. But the plan was assailed by Democrats, consumer advocates and health providers as undermining efforts to serve the poor. States would not be required to switch to the new model. It will be optional, and states interested in it would have to seek authority from the federal government. That makes the proposal less sweeping than efforts...

Collapsed Cave not a Covered ‘Building’ Under Policy, Appeals Court Says

Interstate Underground Warehouse & Storage operates more than 3 million square feet of storage space inside a cave that was once a limestone mine just outside of Kansas City, Mo. The company’s website touts the constant 60-degree temperature inside its … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2tk3Hte

North Carolina City Sets Climate Goals After Declaring Emergency

A North Carolina city has become the first in the state to declare a “climate emergency” and has now set goals on warming greenhouse gases and renewable energy. Asheville City Council unanimously voted for the declaration Tuesday after months of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2RFQfcl

San Antonio Hotel Sued After Glass Bottle Falls on 2-Year-Old

A mother who says her 2-year-old son was seriously injured when a glass ketchup bottle fell on his head from a fifth-floor balcony of a San Antonio hotel is suing the establishment for at least $1 million. Cassandra DeLa Cruz’s … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2GB7hC6

Former Washington Insurance Agent Charged in $2.8M Premium Finance Case

Edward J. Chadwick, of Yakima, Wash., was charged this week with first-degree theft in Spokane County Superior Court. Chadwick was an insurance producer and owned an insurance agency called Kelt, primarily selling insurance to transportation companies. He was charged after … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2GDEJIb

School in Washington Paying $475K in Claim of Kid Released to Wrong Parent

Seattle Public Schools in Washington has agreed to pay almost half a million dollars to resolve a claim involving a former student who said he was hospitalized after his elementary school released him to the wrong parent in 2010. The … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2GFaNeY

Washington Fines Contractor for Blasting Violations, Worker Safety Issues

A reportedly unsafe blasting operation in Spokane, Wash., that put workers and the public at risk has resulted in an Idaho-based drilling company losing its license to perform similar work in Washington. The Washington Department of Labor & Industries has … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/36DoTrC

Florida Woman Pleads Guilty to Hurricane Irma Disaster Assistance Fraud

A Florida woman has pleaded guilty to lying about damage caused by Hurricane Irma. Deannajo White, 39, pleaded guilty in Jacksonville federal court Friday to one count of disaster assistance fraud, according to court records. She faces up to 30 … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2vFaZIV

Schalk Appointed President of Florida-Based St. Johns Insurance; Bowen to Retire

St. Johns Insurance, a privately-held insurer specializing in homeowners’ insurance products and services headquartered in Orlando, Fla., announced that Reese Bowen will retire from the role of president and Jesse Schalk, who joined St. Johns in 2013 as chief financial … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2GGE7Bw

Montana Man Injured in Shooting Files Lawsuit

A Montana man wounded in an officer-involved shooting has filed a lawsuit against the Yellowstone County sheriff’s department. Travis Tolan of Lockwood is alleging negligence, assault and battery and a broader claim that the sheriff’s office has a pattern of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2OubFHF

Judge Finds Ransomware Damage to Computer a ‘Direct Physical Loss’

State Auto Property and Casualty Insurance Co. is liable for the cost of replacing a computer server that was damaged and perhaps permanently compromised by a ransomware attack despite the carrier’s argument that the business owner did not suffer a … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38SCPQ8

Coon Named Deputy Commissioner for Maryland Insurance Administration

Maryland Insurance Commissioner Al Redmer Jr. has named Jay Coon as deputy commissioner for the Maryland Insurance Administration. Coon is a veteran insurance executive with 30 years of industry experience. “Jay has an impressive background in business and management,” Redmer … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2UjSFiP

Massachusetts’ Morse Insurance Agency Acquires Connolly Insurance

Morse Insurance Agency Inc., a provider of personal and business insurance in Southeastern Massachusetts, has acquired Connolly Insurance. The transaction became effective January 1, 2020. Morse Insurance has been a family-run agency since 1950. Brothers Dan, Tim and Brian Morse … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2O8qpLN

New York’s The Stahlka Agency Names Berg as a Partner

The Stahlka Agency has named Shawn Berg as a partner in the insurance agency. Berg joined the agency in 2011. He previously held similar roles at Marsh and also spent time on the carrier side with Safeco. He will be … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3aX1eph

ABI reiterates call for government to slash IPT

Trade body's data shows motor insurance premiums rose again in the last quarter of 2019 with increases in IPT and changes to the discount rate driving up prices. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2vr5HAn

FCA warns of temporary permissions deadline as Brexit looms

The end of the day today (30 January) is the deadline for EEA firms to apply for the regime, but the FCA expects to open applications again later this year. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2RDURzB

MS Amlin Appoints 4 Senior Leaders Within Specialty Business

MS Amlin, the global re/insurer, announced the appointments of four senior leaders within the Specialty business, who will report to Mark Clements and Andrew Wright, co-chief underwriting officers of MS Amlin Underwriting Ltd (MS AUL). The creation of the Specialty … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2U7REdn

Brexit Day Is Finally Here; Now the Hard Part Begins: Opinion

London and Brussels are two hours apart by train but on Friday, the day the U.K. officially leaves the European Union, the two cities will feel worlds apart. The Brits are planning a Brexit celebration worthy of a downtrodden colony … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2GCyYKK

A Guide To Following The Health Debate In The 2020 Elections

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Health has been a top issue in the presidential campaign during the past year: Not only do the Democratic candidates disagree with President Donald Trump, but they also disagree among themselves. Voters have frequently complained that the debate has been confusing and hard to follow. Most of the attention so far has been focused on whether the U.S. should transition to a “Medicare for All” program that would guarantee coverage to all U.S. residents — and result in higher taxes for most people. But there is far more to the health debate than that. The campaign is nearing some key moments — the caucuses in Iowa next week, the New Hampshire primary Feb. 11, voting in Nevada and South Carolina later in the month. By March 3, Super Tuesday, Democrats will have chosen a third of all delegates. Here are six things to know as you tune in to the increasingly frenzied primary race. Email Sign-Up Subscribe to KHN’s free Morning Briefing. Sign Up Please confirm your email addr...

Brexit Impact on UK Insurers Dictated by Trade Talks, Possible Economic Hit: AM Best

From an operational point of view, the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union on Jan. 31, 2020 will have little immediate impact on AM Best-rated insurers in the UK or EU, according to the ratings agency in a new … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3183lSE

Pro Global and VIPR Form Partnership to Deliver End-to-End Solution for MGAs

Pro Global Holding Ltd., global re/insurance outsourcing and consulting specialists have formed a partnership with VIPR, a software provider that focuses on delegated authorities. This move will see the two combine their expertise in the areas of bordereaux and coverholder … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2GD1FaB

Family Sues Over Worker Death at Missouri Sawmill

The family of a 38-year-old man who died after falling into a wood chipper at a St. Joseph sawmill is suing the manufacturer of the machine. The St. Joseph News-Press reports that the minor children of Joshua Hill allege in … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37zQqeR

Insurer Loss Control Oversight Moving to Market Conduct Unit at TDI

The Texas Department of Insurance is moving oversight of insurer loss control inspections to Market Conduct Examinations in the Financial Regulation Division. This is part of the agency’s efforts to strategically align its organizational structure. As part of this move, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2u5fifQ

Universal Orlando Says Woman Suing Over Electrical Shock Was Negligent

A woman who claims she suffered an electric shock at a Universal Orlando water park last year has filed a lawsuit, but the theme park resort is blaming the woman for negligence. Universal Orlando filed a response last month to … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/314VRQw

Trump’s Latest Health Care Challenge: Gaining Voters’ Trust

Far more Americans disapprove of President Donald Trump’s handling of several high-profile health care issues than give him positive marks, underscoring the challenge the president faces in claiming health care as a political asset in his reelection bid. The findings, from the latest Kaiser Family Foundation Health Tracking Poll , released Thursday, found Trump’s approval ratings on various health care topics — including how he has handled the cost of prescription drugs and protecting people with preexisting conditions — lag behind those on his overall job performance. (Kaiser Health News is an editorially independent program of the foundation.) Overall, 54% of adults disapprove of Trump’s handling of prescription drug costs, an area that he has repeatedly pledged to address and that federal officials see as crucial to his reelection pitch. In contrast, 3 in 10 said they approve. At the same time, 35% of Americans approved of Trump’s handling of preexisting conditions and the Afford...

Investigators Probe Cause of Deadly Fire at Alabama Marina

Roughly two dozen people lived on Dock B at Jackson County Park Marina, and none was rich or famous. They were middle-class adults and children, not yachters, folks who liked having a Tennessee River bywater for their backyard. A fire … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2GCzOHz

ProSight Expands Into Captive Market; Founder Beneducci Resigns from Board to Form Agency

ProSight Global, Inc. (PROS) is expanding its insurance portfolio into the captive insurance market as part of a what it described as a strategic move that includes ProSight’s founder and former CEO Joe Beneducci stepping down from his current role … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2S21I4R

Houston-Area Manufacturer to Pay $35K to Settle Sex Harassment, Retaliation Suit

A plastics manufacturer in the Houston area has agreed to settle a sexual harassment and retaliation lawsuit for $35,000. Element Plastics Mfg. LLC, based in Sugar Land, Texas, has settled the suit filed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37I91Fu

AmWINS Names Bromiley Vice President in California

AmWINS Group Inc. has named Christopher Bromiley a vice president and casualty broker in the AmWINS Insurance Brokerage of California’s Los Angeles office. Bromiley will focus on primary and excess placements for difficult construction-related risks. Prior to joining AmWINS, Bromiley … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/36EbEaa

Oregon Worker Who Died Was Operating Faulty Equipment

A Benton County, Ore. road worker who died on the job was operating a poorly maintained piece of leased logging equipment that was owned by his supervisor’s son, according to findings from two investigations. Pete Neuman, 59, was using a … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2RDnygh

Privacy Firm Finds Cannabis Patient Info Left Unsecured by Washington Firm

An internet privacy firm says it was able to access private personal information of more than 30,000 medical marijuana patients, recreational pot customers or dispensary employees in several states. The privacy firm was searching for unsecured data online and says … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2RWMmyG

Grocery Worker in Oregon Called Woman, Daughter Racist Slurs: Suit

A 45-year-old Portland, Ore. woman has filed a lawsuit accusing grocer Fred Meyer of racial discrimination after she said an employee called her racist slurs. Melita Bullitt said in the lawsuit that she was shopping with her daughter at the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38NV2hE

European Insurers Balk at EU Raising Capital Requirements Due to Cyber, Climate Risks

Insurers in Europe may need to put aside money to protect their policyholders should they become insolvent, and regulators should be able to be shut them down swiftly without the need for taxpayer bailouts, a top EU official said on … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37EF3Cr

Rhode Island Judge Says Jury Should Decide if Uber Can Be Liable for Crash

A jury should determine whether Uber ought to be held responsible for a passenger’s injuries, a federal judge in Rhode Island ruled. A U.S. District Court judge concluded Jan. 16 that jurors should determine whether driver Claudette Issa is considered … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2GzBYrq

Group Preparing to Sue EPA Over Chesapeake Bay Pollution

A conservation group announced Monday that it’s preparing to sue the Environmental Protection Agency for failing to enforce the Clean Water Act relating to pollution limits for the Chesapeake Bay. The Chesapeake Bay Foundation announced it is preparing a notice … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2U1UNeR

The Hilb Group Acquires Massachusetts’ Group Brokerage Insurance Agency

The Hilb Group LLC (THG) has acquired Group Brokerage Insurance Agency LLC (GBIA). The transaction became effective January 1, 2020. Located in Waltham, Mass., GBIA is an employee benefits agency primarily providing group medical, dental, life, short and long-term disability … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38RRAmm

Many Global Firms Face High Coronavirus Costs Due to Insurance Exclusions

Many global companies from hotels and airlines to industrial houses are expected to have to foot the bill for disruptions caused by a new coronavirus in China, with epidemics usually excluded from insurance cover, experts said. With 132 deaths in … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2t6JtD0

Risk Strategies Acquires Maryland’s Weaver Brothers Insurance

Risk Strategies, a Boston, Mass.-based, privately held national insurance brokerage and risk management firm, has acquired Weaver Brothers Insurance Inc., a full-service brokerage based in Bethesda, Md. Terms of the deal were not announced. Founded in 1988 with roots dating … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38G8moi

Hiscox commits to regions and moves 300 staff out of London

Insurer is set to open a new branch in an unidentified location, with staff also set to move to existing offices in York and Colchester. It confirmed no-broker-facing roles are affected. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/36CTmWT

Coronavirus Impact: Growing List of Global Firms Cut Back on China Business Activities

Starbucks Corp. has closed more than half of its coffee shops in mainland China — about 2,000 of them — and Toyota Motor Corp. is halting production in the country, as global corporations grapple with a SARS-like coronavirus that has … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/311S9Hm

Travelex’s UK Money Transfer and Wire Services Operational After Ransomware Attack

Travelex’s UK international money transfer service and wire offering is fully operational again, it said on Tuesday, almost a month after a crippling ransomware attack forced staff to use pen and paper to calculate foreign currency exchanges. The cyber attack … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2RAFW9t

Firms Involved in Building Work on London’s Grenfell Tower Take No Blame for 2017 Fire

Firms involved in building work on London tower bloc that caught fire have sidestepped any responsibility for the 2017 tragedy that killed 72 people, a lawyer for the inquiry said. As the second phase of an inquiry into the Grenfell … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2GtwmPv

Australia’s Capital, Canberra, Faces Worst Bushfire Threat in 17 Years

Canberra, Australia’s capital that’s surrounded by bush, is facing its worst wildfire threat in 17 years as a blaze sparked by a military helicopter approaches the city amid heatwave conditions. Residents in Canberra’s southern suburbs should be vigilant after the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3aNEbNM

Is the Re/Insurance Industry Ready for the Fourth Industrial Revolution?

Industry transformations occur when the pain of staying the same is suddenly greater than the pain of changing, according to Karen White, CEO of RMS. “The second thing that has got to be present for those transformations to occur is … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2RWEPjr

At Least 8 Killed, 35 Vessels Burned in Alabama Marina Fire

A massive fire that killed at least eight people and destroyed dozens of boats in an Alabama marina early Monday was spread so rapidly by the wind that “we didn’t have time to do nothing,” said one resident who survived … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2RZmdz7

UPDATE: Big Quake Shakes Miami and Caribbean, Damage Minor

A major earthquake struck south of Cuba on Tuesday, sending shockwaves as far as Miami and sparking panic in the Cayman Islands where it ripped open sinkholes, but did not do serious damage to people or property, initial reports said. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37NnKPq

North Dakota Officials Promoting Flood Insurance in Red River Valley

Officials in North Dakota say it’s time for property owners in flood-prone areas of the Red River Valley to think about buying flood insurance. The push comes as early signs suggest a heightened risk of flooding this spring. The Red … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2U5DGIQ

Bill Would Require Extended Safety Netting at Ohio Pro Ballparks

An Ohio state lawmaker has introduced legislation requiring all major and minor league baseball teams in the state to install protective netting from foul pole to foul pole. State Rep. John Patterson introduced his bill in response to concern from … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38TH5Pr

R&Q Acquires Montana Captive Insurer Vigneron

R&Q is pleased to announce it has acquired the Montana captive insurer, Vigneron Insurance Company Inc. from a wholly owned private investment holding company. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. VICI underwrote deductible reimbursement policies to cover the obligations … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3aNn9PL

Key House Member Eyes Internet Liability Changes Before Election

Representative Jan Schakowsky has asked her staff to examine changes to a liability shield that protects tech platforms such as Facebook Inc. from lawsuits because of her concerns about how fake information could be used in the 2020 presidential election. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2tQoGEi

Bender Insurance Solutions in California Names Wood Vice President of Personal Lines

Sacramento, Calif.-based Bender Insurance Solutions has promoted Jeffrey Wood to vice president of personal lines. Wood will continue to expand the sales and service offerings of the personal lines department, and provide expert personal insurance advice and advocacy to the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2O8zCUr

Beazley Adds Sanches as Underwriter in Southern California

Specialist insurer Beazley has appointed Justin Sanches as an underwriter within the U.S. healthcare liability team. Sanches joins Beazley’s Los Angeles, Calif., office to underwrite a range of global miscellaneous medical and life sciences risks for middle market and large … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38O9Exo

Embattled Tennessee Insurance Agent Fined $23K by State Regulator

A former Tennessee insurance agent facing more than 70 counts of insurance fraud has reached a settlement with the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI) barring her from practicing insurance activities in the state and requiring payment of civil … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/36DUxVU

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Acquires Hanover Excess & Surplus of North Carolina

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. has aquired Wilmington, N.C.-based Hanover Excess & Surplus, Inc. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Established in 1970, Hanover Excess & Surplus is a regional managing general agency offering hard-to-place coastal commercial and personal … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2tPrnGc

Everest to Offer Lawyers PL Program for Small Firms through Embroker Online Platform

Everest Insurance has joined with Embroker to provide an online lawyers’ professional liability program for law firms with up to 10 employed attorneys. Through Embroker’s digitized platform, Everest’s Lawyers’ Professional Liability policy offers several coverage enhancements. The coverage is currently … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/311iq8A

Electricity Can’t Hold a Candle to Artificial Intelligence in Significance, Says Alphabet CEO

Google’s chief executive officer has left no doubt about how important he thinks artificial intelligence will be to humanity. “AI is one of the most profound things we’re working on as humanity. It’s more profound than fire or electricity,” Alphabet … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2uG7pO9

Iowa Town to Buy more Homes in Flood Plain

The city of Bettendorf, Iowa, has been awarded a $2.2 million federal grant that, coupled with state and city contributions, will make $2.95 million available to buy out up to 22 homeowners in the flood plain along Duck Creek near … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37zKh2b

2 Construction Workers Injured at University of Alabama Stadium

Two construction workers, participating in the renovation of Bryant-Denny Stadium at the University of Alabama, were injured Saturday when beams fell on a piece of equipment they were operating. Tuscaloosa Fire Rescue spokeswoman Holly Whigham told news outlets that the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2GH77tb

3 Missing After Barge Crash on Mississippi River Near Louisiana Town

Three people were missing after two barge towing vessels collided Sunday on the Mississippi River in an accident that also may have released a small amount of toxic vapor into the air, the Coast Guard said. The Coast Guard said … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38M6Voh

Michigan Health System: Ex-Worker Stole Patient Data and Shared It

A southeastern Michigan hospital system said that a now-fired employee accessed and shared what was supposed to be protected personal and health information of more than 1,000 patients with someone affiliated with a personal injury lawyer. Beaumont Health said it … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/36EaoE9

TDI to Insurers: Compliance with Temporary Vehicle Coverage Provisions Required

The Texas Department of Insurance has reminded carriers that provide personal auto insurance in the state about the need to comply with new temporary vehicle coverage provisions contained in House Bill 3420. HB 3420, passed by the Legislature last year, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2uC7UIU

Kentucky to Pilot Hemp Research Program for 1 More Year Before Expanding

Kentucky’s Department of Agriculture will continue operating its hemp program as a research pilot program for another year before transitioning to a commercial program, the agency said. Congress gave state agriculture departments the option to continue pilot programs before submitting … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/30YaNjt

9 States Criticize Google’s Street View $13M Privacy Settlement

Attorneys general from nine states urged a federal judge to toss out Google’s $13 million settlement of a class-action lawsuit blaming its Street View mapping technology for a massive violation of consumer privacy. The proposed accord in a debacle that … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/30YaIwb

Alera Group Acquires Muench Financial in Washington

Alera Group has acquired Muench Financial Inc. in Seattle, Wash. Muench Financial joins Alera Group through Wilson Albers. The Muench Financial team will operate out of Alera Group’s Seattle office. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Muench Financial works … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/315ijJd

J&J CEO Testifies in Baby Powder Trail He Relied on Experts on Asbestos Risk

Johnson & Johnson Chief Executive Alex Gorsky on Monday faced questions from plaintiffs lawyers over the timing of his sale of company stock, as he testified for the first time in a jury trial over allegations that the company’s Baby … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/30ZeJ3v

Miami Aims To Be Carbon Neutral by 2050 Under ‘Climate Ready’ Plan

With sea level rise already lapping at its door, the city of Miami made its first significant commitment to address the root cause of climate change, not just the symptoms. The city government plans to go carbon neutral by 2050, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2tWy0q3

Georgia Insurance Dept. Touts 2019 Work for Consumers, Agents

The Georgia Department of Insurance’s multiple enforcement divisions worked on behalf of insurance consumers to combat fraud, return insurance premiums, and approve insurance licenses in 2019, according to a statement from GADOI. In addition, the department said it increased the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/36t8y8J

Florida Man Accused of Making Fraudulent Hurricane Irma Claims

A Florida man has been accused of lying about damage caused by Hurricane Irma, federal prosecutors announced this week. An indictment was returned charging Deontre Javan Taylor, 26, of Jacksonville, with disaster assistance fraud. He faces up to 30 years … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2RV2kJN

HOA Settles Suit with Florida Woman Who Fed Vultures, Gators for $53K

A Florida woman who fed vultures, alligators and other wildlife behind her gated-community home has agreed to pay $53,000 to settle a lawsuit brought by homeowners association. Palm Beach County Judge Scott Kerner permanently enjoined Irma Acosta Arya from feeding … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Rwn6QS

Cyber Attacks in Europe, Middle East Could Be Work of Turkey-Sponsored Hackers

Sweeping cyber attacks targeting governments and other organizations in Europe and the Middle East are believed to be the work of hackers acting in the interests of the Turkish government, three senior Western security officials said. The hackers have attacked … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/36xfzFQ

Energy-Hungry Data Storage Is Another Culprit of Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Everyone has seen the warning. At the bottom of the email, it says: “Please consider the environment before printing.” But for those who care about global warming, you might want to consider not writing so many emails in the first … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3aPAdnS

Australian Insurers Should Be Able to Withstand Mounting Bushfire Claims: AM Best

Australian insurers are well-capitalized and should be able to withstand losses from the 2019/2020 bushfire season, aided by strong capital positions and support from reinsurance partners, said AM Best. The ratings agency explained that comprehensive use of reinsurance has helped … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2t5IdQG

California Vineyard Spills Nearly 100K Gallons of Red Wine into River

More than 97,000 gallons of red wine spilled from a tank at a vineyard in Sonoma County and eventually leaked into the Russian River, an accident officials said could hurt water quality in the 110-mile tributary flowing into the Pacific … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2U3TwnC

Colorado Lawmakers Want to Toughen Workplace Harassment Protections

A proposal to rewrite Colorado’s rules for workplace harassment claims is expected to be introduced soon at the state capitol. It would change things for employers by limiting the use of confidentiality agreements in court, and potentially make businesses liable … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37AJG0n

4.6M Earthquake Confirmed in Southern California Desert

A small earthquake rattled the Southern California desert on Friday, but there were no immediate reports of damage or injuries, the U.S. Geological Survey has confirmed. A temblor with a preliminary magnitude of 4.6 struck at 7:03 p.m. and was … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2U5uYdB

Aviva denies privacy failure after mailing error

The insurer contacted thousands of customers mistakenly calling them ‘Michael’ - reports. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/37KLQdC

Saga looking at performance and cost efficiencies

Provider states 60% of new customers choosing are choosing its three-year fixed price product as it publishes trading update for the last six months. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2GrOQje

California Reopens The Single-Payer Debate

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California Gov. Gavin Newsom was a single-payer candidate. The Democrat campaigned hard for the creation of one public insurance program for all Californians. And within hours of taking office last year, he called on the federal government to allow California and other states to create single-payer programs. On Monday, some of the biggest names in California health care policy are convening in Sacramento to fulfill that promise. Or not. Those who hope this meeting could lead to the end of private insurance and the creation of a state-based “Medicare for All”-type system should probably temper their expectations. “The goal of this commission is likely to demonstrate political momentum without making any firm policy commitments,” said Thad Kousser , chair of the political science department at the University of California-San Diego. Newsom’s Healthy California for All Commission , which will gather near the Capitol for its inaugural meeting, is made up of 13 people from universit...

An Attack Ad That Claims Michigan Sen. Gary Peters Supports ‘Medicare For All’ Doesn’t Hold Up

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Better Future Michigan says Gary Peters “supports ‘Medicare for All,’ siding with radical liberals.” — A television ad that began airing in mid-December This story was produced in partnership with  PolitiFact . This story can be republished for free ( details ). Sen. Gary Peters (D-Mich.), who is running for a second term as Michigan’s junior senator, is the subject of an attack ad that takes issue with his position on “Medicare for All.” The ad claims that “Peters supports Medicare for All, siding with radical liberals.” But Peters’ legislative record and public statements suggest otherwise. One Michigan advocate for this single-payer approach even said Peters has never been a part of their cause. The ad aired on TV stations across the state starting Dec. 12 and was funded by Better Future Michigan. Initially, the commercial was pulled from some airways after being challenged by the Peters’ campaign for “being objectively and unquestionably false.” Better Fu...

California Governor Wants to Block PG&E’s Bankruptcy Plan

California Gov. Gavin Newsom is urging a federal judge to reject Pacific Gas and Electric’s blueprint for getting out of bankruptcy and renewing his threat to lead a bid to turn the beleaguered utility into a government-run operation. In a … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2GoCmZw

Entering and Exiting Digital: What’s Up with Multi-Brand Strategies of P/C Insurers?

Two of the largest property/casualty insurers in the U.S., Allstate and Nationwide, made headlines recently when they announced shifts in their respective multi-brand portfolios. Faced with the prospect of staying relevant in an environment that has seen minimal organic growth … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2TYnwkI

New Coronavirus Outbreak: Marsh Recommends Immediate Steps for Multinationals

The effects on multinational businesses from a potentially worsening Wuhan coronavirus outbreak could be severe, which is why they need to review, test and potentially update plans related to business continuity, crisis management and crisis communications, according to Marsh in … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/30Trmgr

New Jersey Apartment Complex Fire Damages Dozens of Units

A fast-moving fire roared through a southern New Jersey apartment complex, damaging dozens of units but causing no injuries, authorities said. The fire broke out late Monday in the Buttonwood Village complex in Gloucester Township. Firefighters battled the blaze for … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2S4yMcP

Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office Charges Insurance Adjuster in $722K Theft

The Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office (DAO) has charged insurance adjuster Michael R. Shelly with insurance fraud, forgery, theft by deception and theft by failure to make required disposition of funds for stealing more than $722,000 from Bridesburg, Penn.-based manufacturer Philly … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37w9hY2

The Hilb Group Acquires Maryland’s Martens Johnson Insurance Agency

The Hilb Group LLC (THG) has acquired Maryland-based Martens Johnson Insurance Agency Inc. (MJIA). The transaction became effective January 1, 2020. MJIA is a full-service insurance agency focused on the unique needs of the commercial transportation industry in the Maryland … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2vjVFBb

Uber Goes to Washington. Autonomous Cars with Humans to Collect Data in D.C.

Uber Technologies Inc. will put self-driving vehicles on Washington, D.C. roads Friday with human drivers in control, the ride share company said on Thursday, as it seeks to collect data for future deployment of fully self-driving vehicles. Uber is collecting … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/36vFHRj

Uber in London Failed to Flag Assault Complaints, Monitor Drivers’ Insurance Status

London’s main transportation regulator has released a scathing document detailing why it moved to ban Uber Technologies Inc. from operating in the city. The regulator lists several safety concerns, including the charge that it didn’t receive proper notification of alleged … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38FvdQQ

Insured Losses from Australia’s Hailstorms Hit US$352.5 Million

The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has declared a catastrophe for damage caused by hailstorms that struck eastern Melbourne, the Australian Capital Territory and parts of New South Wales on Sunday and Monday (Jan. 19-Jan. 20). Insured losses from the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/30XMrGg

As Insurers Pull Back from Australia’s Bushfire Zones, They Could Become Uninhabitable

Australian wildfires that have razed thousands of homes and blackened an area about the size of England may also create the nation’s first climate refugees. That’s the view of Michael Mann, distinguished professor of atmospheric science at Pennsylvania State University, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2GnYkvJ

China’s New Coronavirus Doesn’t Always Cause a Fever so Detection May Be Difficult

China’s new deadly virus is more difficult to contain than other pandemics because those infected may not get a fever, a symptom governments around the world are using to screen for the pathogen. The National Health Commission told local governments … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3aL7zUU

Indonesia to Tighten Oversight of Troubled Insurance Industry as Crisis Continues

With Indonesia’s oldest life insurer tottering on the brink of collapse following years of alleged mismanagement, authorities plan to tighten surveillance of the industry by overhauling regulations and setting up a rescue agency. The government plans to draft an omnibus … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/30VRuXS

Trump OKs North Dakota Storm-Related Disaster Declaration

President Donald Trump has approved a disaster declaration for North Dakota after an October storm dumped heavy rain and snow on a large part of the state. Gov. Doug Burgum made the request last month and announced Trump had approved … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2vqPFXp

AXA Reviews Potential Sale of Middle Eastern Operations: Sources

AXA SA is considering options for its Middle Eastern operations including a potential sale, as Chief Executive Officer Thomas Buberl continues to streamline the operations of Europe’s second-largest insurer, people familiar with the matter said. The French insurer is working … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/37pTtpT

U.K. Financial Services Firms Must Prepare for Failure of Brexit Trade Deal: Regulator

Financial firms in Britain should be ready in case no trade agreement is struck with the European Union by December, a senior U.K. regulator said on Thursday. Britain leaves the EU next week, followed by a “business as usual” transition … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/36w5R6k

Florida Lawmakers Propose Task Force to Protect State from Sea-Level Rise

After years of mostly ignoring climate change, Florida lawmakers waded deeper into the matter on Tuesday , advancing a proposal that would create a statewide Office of Resiliency and establish a task force to begin looking into how best to … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2t4ZWYw

4 Racehorses Die at New Orleans Track in 10-Day Span

Four thoroughbred racehorses were euthanized after competing at a New Orleans track in a 10 -day span, prompting criticism from an animal advocacy group based in Washington D.C. Officials at the New Orleans Fair Grounds Race Course didn’t specify the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/36vz6q6

Wisconsin Manufacturer Fined $171K for Exposing Workers to Lead, Other Hazards

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Milwaukee Valve Company Inc. – based in Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin – for exposing employees to lead and copper dust at rates higher than the permissible exposure … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Gq27ZF

Court: Insurer GEICO Must Pay Injured Kansas Man for Care Provided by Wife

An insurance company must reimburse a Kansas man for the personal care his wife provided after he was injured in an automobile accident, the state Supreme Court ruled in rejecting that spouses are required to provide such support without compensation. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/38DxnR1

Texas’ Galiot Insurance Services, Higginbotham Join Forces

Houston-based Galiot Insurance Services, with a specialty in the life sciences sector, and insurance broker Higginbotham, headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, have merged operations. Galiot President and CEO Brian Toglia, with 14 years of experience in the insurance industry, focuses … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2GCibrv

Hawaii Family Sues School Over Child’s Death While Kayaking

The family of a 5-year-old boy who died on a kayaking excursion filed a lawsuit against the school that conducted the trip. The family of Alaric Chiu filed the lawsuit last week against Mid-Pacific Institute citing reckless behavior and gross … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2TY6L9b

New Laws Spur Insurers to Reserve for Potential Child Sex-Abuse Claims

Travelers Companies Inc. has set aside a “modest” amount of additional money to cover its possible exposure to child sex-abuse claims, the insurer’s finance chief, Daniel Frey, told analysts during an earnings call on Thursday. Two analysts asked about Travelers’ … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2GjHEpk

Father Sues Police in Oregon for Using Stun Gun on 14-Year-Old

A father is suing Redmond, Ore. police because he says they used excessive force when they used a Taser stun gun on his 14-year-old son nearly two years ago. Michael Francisco filed the civil rights lawsuit last week in U.S. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2U01Fcs

Must-Reads Of The Week From Brianna Labuskes

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The Friday Breeze Newsletter editor Brianna Labuskes, who reads everything on health care to compile our daily Morning Briefing, offers the best and most provocative stories for the weekend. Happy Friday! Where yours truly is a little in awe and a little dazed at the idea of China in the span of six days building an entire hospital to handle patients of the coronavirus. The pictures from the construction site with what looks like a toddler’s toy box’s worth of excavators alone are worth clicking through for. Speaking of, you may have — just may have — heard there’s a coronavirus outbreak happening in China. Considering I’ve processed nearly 40 stories per day on the topic, I found it impossible to link to just one. If you’d like to thoroughly check out the full onslaught, we’ve got you covered . But here are some highlights: — Although the death toll has climbed to 26 people, there are more than 800 confirmed cases, which means the death rate is not startlingly high. On...