Insurance Wiki How

The family of former Los Angeles Angels pitcher Tyler Skaggs filed lawsuits Tuesday in Texas and California charging the team and two former employees with negligence in his drug-related death two years ago. The lawsuits – filed by Skaggs’ parents … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3hfBKYc

Ruling Limits Safety-Based Drug Testing at Iowa Warehouses

The Iowa Supreme Court has ruled that employers cannot subject all warehouse employees to random drug testing by designating them as having “safety sensitive” jobs. In its 4-3 ruling, the court ruled that companies must consider the specific duties of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jvscuU

Arthur J. Gallagher Acquires Stellar Benefits Group in Ohio

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. has acquired Solon, Ohio-based Stellar Benefits Group LLC. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Ronald Rafal, Alan Greenberg and their associates will continue to operate from their current location under the direction of Tom … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3ApFMGu

North Carolina Doctor Sued by Former Employees Alleging Sexual Misconduct

A North Carolina doctor who pleaded guilty in March to assault on a female has been sued by two former employees who allege sexual misconduct. Dr. Diaa Eldin Hussein, who has practices in Morganton, Marion and Lenoir, is facing civil … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3Acpssp

Mississippi Lawmakers Hold Hearing on Medical Marijuana

Two prominent Mississippi physicians urged lawmakers Monday to put “guardrails” in place if medical marijuana is legalized in the state, warning that officials should be careful about making a product available that has not been thoroughly tested by the FDA … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3hq9Mtb

People Moves: Willis Re’s Johns and Aon’s O’Donoghue to Carpenter; Garzon Succeeds Laidlaw at McLarens’ LatAm Business

Guy Carpenter & Co., the reinsurance business of Marsh McLennan, announced the appointments of James Johns as managing director, effective Aug. 12, 2021, and Joshua O’Donoghue as senior vice president, effective Nov. 8, 2021, within its Non-Marine Specialty division. In … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3hpS1dp

Recreational Vehicle Rental Site Outdoorsy to Expand Its Insurance Division

Recreational vehicle rental marketplace Outdoorsy said it will use some of the $120 million it recently raised to expand its digital managing general agency that sells insurance to RV owners and renters in the U.S. and Europe. Austin, Texas-based Outdoorsy, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qCLS1z

2 Reported Dead in Natural Gas Line Explosion in Texas

Two people were killed and three injured in a natural gas pipeline explosion in Texas, officials said. The deadly blast happened around 4 p.m. Monday at an Atmos Energy facility in Collin County near Farmersville, about 35 miles northeast of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3641TnW

NASA Looking at Louisiana Delta System

Erosion, sinking land and sea rise from climate change have killed the Louisiana woods where a 41-year-old Native American chief played as a child. Not far away in the Mississippi River delta system, middle-school students can stand on islands that … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qAwwe1

Louisiana Asbestos Inspector Must Repay School Board $212K

A Louisiana man has been sentenced to eight months of home confinement and ordered to repay more than $212,000 to a school board which hired him for asbestos inspections. U.S. District Judge Lance Africk also ordered Marc Victoriano, 46, of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3x7WsjE

3.9M Earthquake Confirmed in San Francisco Bay Area

A magnitude 3.9 earthquake rattled the San Francisco Bay Area on Monday evening, the U.S. Geological Survey confirmed. The earthquake’s epicenter was in San Lorenzo, an East Bay community in Alameda County 13 miles south of Oakland, according to the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3y7AoWr

Northern California Wildfire Forces Evacuation Orders

A wildfire in Northern California has grown significantly and begun to pose a threat communities. The Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office issued evacuation orders Monday for the Lake Shastina and Juniper Valley areas. Ignited by lightning on June 24, the Lava … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2UcwfC3

Short-Term Rental Firms Move to Tighten Safety for Travelers

Expedia Group Inc.’s short-term rental business Vrbo has banned hosts who use its platform from leaving house keys in public places, and TripAdvisor Inc. is reviewing its safety policies to better protect travelers. The two companies said the moves were … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2TpA2vs

Pennsylvania USPS Facility Fined More Than $230K for Workplace Safety Violations

A federal workplace safety inspection of a U.S. Postal Service location in Pennsylvania found employees exposed to potentially serious and fatal injuries in the event of an emergency. Responding to a complaint, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3A8eqo9

Massachusetts Woman Gets Six Years in Prison for Embezzling from Nonprofits

A Massachusetts woman who embezzled about $1.4 million from two nonprofits where she worked has been sentenced to six years in federal prison, prosecutors said. In addition, Nicole Lescarbeau was also sentenced last week to five years of probation and … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3drojne

Connecticut Opioid Deaths Keep Rising Even After Pandemic Eases

Opioid deaths spiked in Connecticut during the pandemic and continue to increase in 2021, fueled by continued disruptions to recovery programs and a deadly, fentanyl-laced drug supply. The synthetic opioid fentanyl, which is 80 to 100 times more powerful than … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Ui8d8M

Google Vows to Target Online Financial Scams in Britain

Google will clamp down on financial fraud on its platform in Britain, saying on Wednesday that all financial services will need to be verified by the regulator before they can advertise. Britain’s financial watchdog issued 1,200 consumer warnings last year … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3hlM1Cn

French Court Refuses to Dismiss Fire Charges Against Buffett-Owned Lubrizol

A French appeal court on Wednesday rejected a request by chemicals group Lubrizol to have judicial charges over a fire at a plant in Rouen quashed because of alleged irregularities in the investigation, a lawyer for the company said. The … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qB4yPi

Florida Governor Cites ‘Unintended Consequences’ in Veto of Auto Insurance Bill

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has vetoed a measure intended to replace auto insurance personal injury protection (PIP) coverage with bodily injury coverage limits and a requirement that insurers offer medical payments coverage. In a letter time-stamped at 9:12 pm last … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3drFlRY

VW to Appeal Court Ruling That Clean Air Act Doesn’t Bar State Suit Over Emissions

Ohio’s Supreme Court on Tuesday cleared the way for the state’s attorney general to move forward with a lawsuit against Volkswagen AG over its “Dieselgate” scandal and manipulation of emissions-control systems. The court ruled 6-1 that the federal Clean Air … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2UeX4Wd

U.S. Goes on Offense to Fight Growing Threat of Cyber Attacks

For the last several years, FBI agents debated turning the tables on hackers by remotely accessing breached computer networks and booting out the attackers caught in mid-hack. They got their chance earlier this year after state-backed Chinese hackers compromised thousands … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2URUjKK

Florida Condo Association President Warned in April of Worsening Condition

SURFSIDE, Fla. — Search-and-rescue teams pulled two more bodies from the concrete and steel rubble of a partially collapsed Florida condominium tower on Monday, bringing the death toll to 11 with 150 people still listed as missing four days after … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jukDEM

Aviva to invest millions in GI growth

The new UK GI CEO, Adam Winslow, highlights broker support as he flags “millions” in investment going forward as the insurer focuses on growing GI’s role within the group. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2Uds1tI

Florida Legislature Sends No-Fault Auto Insurance Repeal Bill to Governor

The Florida legislature has sent an auto insurance measure (Senate Bill 54) to Gov. Ron DeSantis, who must now decide whether to sign or veto the legislation, which would repeal the state’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance system. The bill … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3w5EmgL

Wall Street, Tech Firms Fear SEC Climate Disclosure Will Trigger Lawsuits

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission may make corporations reveal more about climate risks in key regulatory filings, a push that Wall Street and the biggest tech companies say will lead to a barrage of shareholder lawsuits. Top SEC officials … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3dqTPkW

Penn. Manufacturing Company, Owner Sued for Firing Worker Over Safety Concerns

The U.S. Department of Labor has filed suit against a Pennsylvania paper products manufacturing company and its owner after they fired a worker for raising safety concerns and asking several times for safety gloves to operate a shredder and baler. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jnwpAP

People Moves: Integris Group’s Votta, Risk Strategies’ Pincus, VFBMIC’s Brown Promoted

Integris Group Promotes Votta to Vice President of Actuarial Services Integris Group, formerly named CMIC, a member-owned medical professional liability carrier, has promoted James Votta to vice president of actuarial services. Votta joined Integris Group in July 2020. Prior to … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3w2PnQ8

E-Cigarette Maker Juul to Pay $40M to Settle North Carolina Suit Over Youth Marketing

E-cigarette maker Juul Labs Inc. has agreed to pay $40 million to North Carolina to settle a lawsuit by the state accusing it of marketing its products to minors. The settlement, announced on Monday by North Carolina Attorney General Josh … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2UdLRVz

Heavy Rains Causing Missouri Rivers to Rise, More Rain Possible

Missouri’s rivers are rising, and with heavy rain possible through most of the week, parts of the state are under flood warnings and flash flood watches. Minor flooding was already happening Monday at several points on the Missouri River. Damage … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2SBd9VJ

Rhode Island Senate Approves Legalizing Marijuana for Adults

The Rhode Island Senate approved legalizing recreational marijuana use for adults, marking the first time either chamber of the state Legislature has voted on a bill to legalize cannabis. The proposal was introduced by longtime proponent Senator Joshua Miller, a … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3y1LzzZ

Louisiana Lawmakers Eyeing Hurricanes Tackle Water System Upgrades

Spurred by recent hurricanes and a rare winter storm that demonstrated the frailty of Louisiana’s public water supply, lawmakers have set their attention on improving the state’s troubled water systems. Legislators created a new grading metric for community water systems, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3A4JogV

Royal Caribbean Cruises Requiring Travel Insurance for Unvaccinated Passengers

Royal Caribbean, which has restarted its cruises, said it is requiring that unvaccinated guests age 12 and older sailing from Florida homeports provide proof of travel insurance to cover any quarantine, evacuation and medical expenses related to COVID-19. The insurance … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2U9Nhkf

Wildfire Risk Creeping Higher in Montana Parks

The risk of wildfires is growing with more warm, dry weather in Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. The fire danger in Yellowstone is rated as “high” and in Grand Teton it’s “very high.” The scale tops out with “extreme” … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qAEELm

California Workers’ Comp Insurer Losses and Expenses $12B for 2020

The Workers’ Compensation Insurance Rating Bureau of California has released its latest report on workers’ comp losses and expenses for 2020. Key findings in the report, 2020 California Workers’ Compensation Losses and Expenses include: Medical losses paid in 2020 were … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3AcP2O7

Wildfire Resilience Efforts Are Improving: Triple-I Panelists

Panelists convened by the Insurance Information Institute and ResilientH20 Partners agreed that resilience is building due to technological advances and greater awareness about how wildfires spread. In the latest installment of the Triple-I’s National Town Hall series, a risk modeler, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3hlU5mH

How Technology Can Be Used to Lessen the Damage from Natural Disasters

In 2020 alone, more than 10.3 million acres were burned by wildfires across the United States, a level three times higher than the 10-year average from 1990 to 2000 10. Between fire suppression costs, direct and indirect costs, wildfires in … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xb2xMo

Deaths Toll from Florida Condo Collapse Rises; Investigation Into Cause Continues

Search-and-rescue teams pulled two more bodies from the concrete and steel rubble of a partially collapsed Florida condominium tower on Monday, bringing the death toll to 11 with 150 people still listed as missing four days after the disaster. Pouring … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3A80HgZ

Digital E&S Broker Pathpoint Raises $30 Million

Pathpoint, a digital excess and surplus lines insurance brokerage, reported that it has raised $30 million in funding. Investors include Caffeinated Capital, which led the round, and repeat investors including SciFi VC, Founders Fund, and Chubb. Hiscox and other carriers … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Thldew

Drug Industry Faces First High-Stakes Opioid Jury Trial

Jurors on New York’s Long Island are set to determine whether a group of opioid makers and drug distributors created a public health crisis and should pay for it, in a bellwether trial for lawsuits filed by communities across the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3A3bEjQ

Central London Could Lose as Many as 835,000 Jobs to Remote Working: Report

Central London could lose as many as 835,000 jobs in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, with employees in service industries increasingly able to work remotely and flexibly, according to research by a consulting firm. An analysis of London’s labor … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qxuyuV

Danny Is No Longer a Tropical Storm as It Moves Over Georgia

The National Hurricane Center has withdrawn yesterday’s tropical storm warning. Tropical Storm Danny has weakened as it travels inland over Georgia and is no longer classified as a tropical cyclone. The remnants of the storm were moving toward the west-northwest … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35Xhp4O

People Moves: Swiss Re’s Render to Peak Re; Aon’s Denbigh to TigerRisk’s Retro Unit; Price Forbes’ Fox to Oneglobal

The following international People Moves provides details of appointments at reinsurer Peak Re and two brokers, TigerRisk and Oneglobal. A summary of these new hires follows here. Peak Reinsurance Co. AG, the wholly owned European subsidiary of the Hong Kong-based … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qyDikl

BHSI Introduces D&O Liability and Professional Indemnity Policies in Ireland

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI) announced it has added to its customized suite of directors & officers (D&O) liability and professional indemnity policies, for customers in Ireland. The company has launched a new suite of “Professional First” coverages, which includes … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qwFUiV

Opportunity for brokers to drive change in motor insurance

By Bits' Callum Rimmer encourages brokers to step in after survey reveals gap between what motor insurers are offering and what their customers want. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/3h0uGjk

Wilson to Succeed Stovin as President of Markel International

Markel Corp. announced that Simon Wilson will become the next president of Markel International, a wholly owned subsidiary. He will succeed William Stovin who has led the Markel International division since 2008. The transition is part of a planned succession … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3y7LkDh

Swiss Re’s iptiQ and German Real Estate Platform Launch Digital Loss-of-Rent Cover

Swiss Re’s iptiQ and ImmoScout24, Germany’s leading online real estate platform, are launching a loss-of-rent insurance product, which provides private landlords with protection against the financial uncertainties that can arise from tenancy agreements. As an insurance partner, iptiQ offers ImmoScout24 … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2T9cwTF

Tropical Storm Warning Issued for South Carolina

The National Hurricane Center has issued a tropical storm warning for parts of the South Carolina coast due to the formation of a tropical depression. The warning is for citizens from Edisto Beach northeastward to South Santee River. The warning … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xVJ8yK

Hiscox agrees settlement with business interruption action group

Hiscox and the Hiscox Action Group said the arbitration proceedings have been resolved "to the mutual satisfaction of all parties". from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2U9tkK4

Lessons from the Pandemic for Workers’ Compensation

The COVID-19 pandemic has taught us tough lessons. We have learned the strengths and limitations of globalization, our public health systems, and our ability to respond during a crisis. In the U.S. workers’ compensation system, the pandemic has reinforced the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zZTBLo

Hawaii Boosting Peer-to-Peer Car Rental Oversight

The Hawaii Department of Taxation has been boosting its monitoring of peer-to-peer car rentals. The industry operates with the help of apps like Turo, which people can use to rent their personal cars to others. Department Director Isaac Choy told … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3dmNhUt

California Doctors’ Lobby Scores ‘Major Victory’ on Bill to Hold Physicians Accountable

The board that licenses and disciplines doctors in California is failing to hold bad actors accountable, endangering patients in the process. That’s the verdict of state lawmakers and patient advocates who have been working for years to reform the Medical … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3dkzOMU

Severe Drought in Western U.S. Raises July 4 Fireworks Fears

Many Americans aching for normalcy as pandemic restrictions end are looking forward to traditional Fourth of July fireworks. But with a historic drought in the U.S. West and fears of another devastating wildfire season, officials are canceling displays, passing bans … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3h0XwjR

Prosecutor Says Woman Arrested in Arson that Damaged Three Buildings

A woman accused of setting a fire that damaged three buildings and displaced a dozen New Jersey families earlier this month has been arrested, prosecutors said. The Hudson County prosecutor’s office announced the arrest of the 62-year-old suspect in a … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3Ahloau

People Moves: Liberty Mutual’s Streeton to Aon Reinsurance Solutions; Guerin Promoted at Marsh UK Corporate; Ed Broking’s Parker and Lech to Alesco

These international People Moves cover recent appointments at three insurance brokers: Marsh, Aon and Alesco. A summary of these new hires follows here. Aon plc announced that Frederick Streeton has been named leader of Complex Client Strategy of Aon’s Reinsurance … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35UVU4E

OSHA Announces $21M in Workplace Safety Grants for Nonprofits

The Department of Labor announced funding opportunities for more than $21 million in Occupational Safety and Health Administration training grants for non-profit organizations. The first availability will provide $10 million under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 for workplace … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gX7kLA

Brothers Sentenced in Fire that Badly Damaged Philadelphia Stores, Homes

Two brothers have each been sentenced to nine years in prison for setting fire to their hookah lounge in Philadelphia as they struggled with business losses, causing more than $20 million in damages to a retail block in the city’s … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3haH5Ad

French Mutual Insurer Covea Eyes Purchase of AXA XL’s Reinsurance Business: Reports

Covéa, the French non-life mutual, is interested in acquiring AXA XL’s reinsurance business, AXA Re, in deal that could be valued at €5 billion, according to press reports. The news story, which originally appeared in Bloomberg, “is credible,” according to … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2TcPnzz

Hot Housing Market Boosts Personal Lines Insurance Shopping But Auto Still Lags

Shopping for personal lines insurance is showing signs of returning to pre-pandemic levels in the U.S., according to a new TransUnion report. Auto insurance remains a big exception, however. The consulting firm found in its Personal Lines Insurance Shopping Report … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qurr73

Businesses, States Reluctant to Require Customers to Show Proof of Vaccine

Customers wanting to wine, dine and unwind to live music at the City Winery’s flagship restaurant in New York must show proof of a COVID-19 vaccination to get in. But that’s not required at most other dining establishments in the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xZsP43

J&J Reports $263M Resolution of N.Y. Opioid Lawsuits Before Trial

Johnson & Johnson said it agreed to pay $263 million to resolve opioid lawsuits filed in New York, settling the cases on the eve of the first U.S. jury trial over claims the company mishandled the highly addictive painkillers. The … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3A6lUbi

Today Is National Insurance Awareness Day

National Insurance Awareness Day on June 28 is meant as a reminder for individuals, families and businesses to review their insurance policies and take steps to prevent being underinsured. The review should include windstorm and a flood insurance coverages, according … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zZ99z0

Inspector Told Residents Surfside Condo Building Was Safe Despite Engineer’s Warning

A town inspector had assured residents of a high-rise condominium in Surfside, Florida, that their building was sound a month after an engineering report warned of major structural damage that required prompt repair in 2018, U.S. media reported. The Champlain … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3A4huSb

Are you happy with insurer performance?

Take part in the Broker Satisfaction survey today and share your views on which providers are broker service stars and who needs to improve. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/3hbMBT1

Death Toll at 9, More Than 150 Still Missing in Florida Condo Collapse

The official death toll from the partial collapse of a high-rise condominium complex near Miami rose to nine on Sunday, with more than 150 people still missing, as rescue teams picked through the rubble for a fourth day without detecting … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3w62rUK

Insured Losses for March’s New South Wales, Queensland Floods Estimated at A$916M

PERILS, the independent Zurich-based organization that provides industry-wide catastrophe insurance data, disclosed its second industry loss estimate for the New South Wales and Queensland floods, which occurred in March 2021. The second estimate of the insurance market loss is A$916 … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3x2MIao

Hurricane Enrique Heads for Mexico’s Pacific Coast

MEXICO CITY – The first hurricane of the eastern Pacific season headed for a possible close brush with Mexico’s southwestern shoulder Sunday night, and forecasters warned that heavy rains could cause dangerous flash floods or mudslides on shore. Hurricane Enrique … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3djKwmW

Dutch Insurer NN Group Offers to Buy Part of MetLife’s Businesses in Europe

NN Group NV offered to acquire part of MetLife Inc.’s businesses in Europe, saying the move is in line with its strategy to consolidate leading positions in attractive growth markets. The Dutch insurer said in a statement Sunday that it … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35XdRj4

UK Accounting Regulator Probes Greensill and Wyelands Bank Auditors

LONDON – Britain’s accounting regulator said on Monday it has opened investigations into the audits of Greensill Capital and Wyelands Bank as regulatory scrutiny of the companies intensifies. Wyelands Bank is owned by steel tycoon Sanjeev Gupta’s metals-to-finance empire GFG … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3y0idlA

Hiscox Agrees to Arbitration Settlement with UK Policyholders over COVID-19 BI Losses

Hiscox has agreed an arbitration settlement with a group of policyholders over business interruption losses due to the government’s COVID-19 lockdown last year, the Lloyd’s of London insurer said on Monday. Hiscox was one of six of the world’s largest … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qwnuPc

Urban Jungle targets homeowners with fresh product

CEO Jimmy Williams talks to Insurance Age about the company’s newly launched product and its plans for future expansion. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/3x1daBj

More Guilty Pleas in Louisiana Staged Truck Accident Cases

Two more individuals have pleaded guilty to conspiring to stage automobile accidents in Louisiana in a scheme to defraud insurance and trucking companies, the U.S. Justice Department says. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana reported that … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2UFtCZv

Parents Whose Baby Died Settle Malpractice Suit with S.D. Hospital

The parents of an infant who died at a Sioux Falls hospital have agreed to settle their malpractice lawsuit against the healthcare provider. The terms of the mediated settlement between Avera McKennan Hospital and the baby’s parents, Khayyam and Tejumade … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3A4x8Nc

Microsoft Finds New Breach When Probing Suspected SolarWinds Hackers

Microsoft said on Friday an attacker had won access to one of its customer-service agents and then used information from that to launch hacking attempts against customers. The company said it had found the compromise during its response to hacks … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3hfgSAm

High Court Ruling Limits Safety-Based Drug Testing at Iowa Warehouses

The Iowa Supreme Court ruled on June 25 that employers cannot subject all warehouse employees to random drug testing by designating them as having “safety sensitive” jobs. In its 4-3 ruling, the court ruled that companies must consider the specific … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2U82zWF

Illinois Chemical Plant Fire Likely Accidental, Fire Chief Says

An explosion and massive fire at a chemical plant in northern Illinois that filled the sky with black smoke and forced the evacuation of hundreds of homes for days was started accidentally during maintenance work, a senior fire official said. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3vZVkgC

Texas Supreme Court: Academy Can’t Be Sued for Selling Gun Used in Texas Mass Shooting

The man who gunned down 26 people at a Sutherland Springs church in Texas’ deadliest ever mass shooting should not have been able to buy the assault style weapon he used, but the store that sold it to him can’t … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3dixK8q

Lawsuit Filed over Illness After Kansas Wildlife Park Visit

A woman who said she and her three children became violently ill after using a splash park at the Tanganyika Wildlife Park is suing the attraction, alleging unsanitary conditions led to an illness outbreak. The Kansas Department of Health and … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3jfhit7

San Francisco to Require Covid-19 Vaccinations for City Employees

San Francisco city workers will be required to be vaccinated against the coronavirus when a vaccine receives full federal approval. The policy covering 35,000 municipal workers may be the first by any city or county in the U.S. Employees who … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xZAnE1

Uber to Pay $3.4M to Drivers in Seattle Gig Worker Leave Law Settlement

Uber has agreed to pay more than $3.4 million to 15,000 drivers after making mistakes related to Seattle’s pioneering paid sick leave law covering gig workers. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the Seattle City Council in 2020 temporarily extended sick and … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zWIZNo

Insuring Properties a Struggle for Many in California’s Risky Fire Areas

As California’s wildfire season looms, threatening once again to break records for destruction, tens of thousands of rural homeowners risk facing the flames without enough insurance to rebuild if their homes burn. Insurers have been taking a hard look at … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xSKRor

Bechtel Subsidiary to Pay $200K to Resolve Gender-Based Discrimination Claims in Houston

A natural gas extraction and offshore developer has agreed to resolve claims of alleged pay discrimination affecting 22 female employees at its Houston location, federal officials say. The U.S. Department of Labor said Bechtel Oil, Gas and Chemicals Inc. has … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qv9oNV

Ex-Allianz employee sentenced for fraud by abuse of position

The fraudster, a broker relationship manager, was sentenced to two years imprisonment suspended for two years and 180 hours of unpaid work after pocketing £106,000 for setting up fake insurance policies and redirecting claims payments. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/35U3HQ4

North Carolina Senate Committee Holds Hearing on Medical Marijuana

A bipartisan effort to legalize marijuana for medical use in North Carolina got a legislative committee hearing on Wednesday. But it’s unclear whether enough legislators are ready now to alter their views on pot to make it law. With nearly … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3h7ew6x

Tennessee Doctor Pleads Guilty in Hydrocodone Overdose Death

A Tennessee doctor has pleaded guilty to causing the overdose death of a patient by illegally prescribing the painkiller hydrocodone, federal prosecutors said. Thomas K. Ballard III faces 20 years in prison under a plea agreement, the U.S. attorney’s office … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3h7etYp

Still 159 Unaccounted For as Florida Condo Collapse Death Toll Rises

Rescue workers scouring the debris of a collapsed condo building in a Miami suburb said they heard sounds in the rubble overnight, as officials on Friday raised the number of people unaccounted for to 159 and the confirmed death toll … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3h7etaR

Supreme Court Limits Plaintiff Class in TransUnion ‘Terrorist List’ Case

The U.S. Supreme Court on Friday narrowed the scope of a class action lawsuit against TransUnion in which thousands of people sought damages after the credit reporting company flagged their names as matching those on a government list of suspected … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3dfO5dP

Employers See Employee Mental Health as Major Concern

Employees’ mental health has become a serious issue in the workplace and employers are increasingly likely to recognize not only the costs but also how the stigma surrounding mental illness is an obstacle to treatment. A study from The Hartford … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Sqdk62

Worker Dies After Fall Through Roof of Building in Park Near Pittsburgh

A masonry company worker was pronounced dead after falling through the roof of a large building in a park near Pittsburgh, authorities said. Allegheny County police and paramedics were called shortly after 10 a.m. Wednesday to the Agricultural Building in … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2U3JJjr

Indictment Says Tech Firm Official Stole Money, Ran Fraud Scheme

The chief operating officer of a Philadelphia-based technology startup company orchestrated a long-running securities offering fraud while simultaneously embezzling hundreds of thousands of dollars from the firm, according to federal prosecutors in New Jersey. Joseph Geromini, 54, of Linwood, New … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zXnBHR

Massachusetts Repair Shop Owner Pleads Guilty to Insurance Fraud Charges

A man who used sledgehammers and mallets to further damage customers’ vehicles at the two auto body shops he owned in an effort to cheat insurance companies has pleaded guilty to dozens of charges, prosecutors said. Adam Haddad, 44, pleaded … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gWMb4h

Biden Stresses Disaster Preparedness as Extreme Weather Exacts Toll

President Joe Biden said Tuesday that his administration needs to “bring every resource to bear” to deal with natural disasters as huge swaths of the country have already endured extreme weather with the summer season just starting. The president said … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3ddEQe2

Experts highlight how industry must develop to succeed

Panellists at the CII Conference discussed the changes the industry needs to make in order to meet customers' needs and what skills brokers can work on in order to maintain lucrative relationships with clients. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/3vV0P0a

People Moves: Arch’s Kashuba, TransRe’s Robinson to Ascot; Marsh’s Little to MS Amlin; Allianz’ Schaefer to Howden

These international People Moves detail new hires at two Lloyd’s insurers (Ascot and MS Amlin) and broker Howden. A summary of these appointments follows here. Insurer Ascot Group announced the expansion of its U.S. facultative reinsurance capabilities with the appointment … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35URavX

SEC Looking Into New Climate, Workforce Diversity Disclosure Rules

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) may require public companies to publish data on a whole range of new areas, including greenhouse gas emissions, workforce turnover and diversity, as its new chairman looks to enhance the SEC’s disclosure regime. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3wXIUqL

Berkshire Hathaway Looks to Be Buying Back More of Its Own Stock

Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway Inc. appears to have extended its drive to repurchase its own stock, even with its share price near a record high, according to regulatory filings and an analyst. Edward Jones & Co. analyst James Shanahan estimated … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zXhx1U

Former Atlantia Execs Face Trial over 2018’s Fatal Genoa Bridge Collapse: Sources

Italian prosecutors investigating the deadly collapse of a bridge in 2018 have asked for 59 people, including former Atlantia CEO Giovanni Castellucci, to be sent for trial, two judicial sources told Reuters. The road bridge, operated by Atlantia’s motorway unit … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gT804s

Brokers urged to take action to tackle reputational damage

Panellists at this year's CII Conference discuss the need to build public trust in insurance after the expectation gap between consumers and the industry has widened as a result of the pandemic. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/3h35aZN

UK Court of Appeal Confirms Riders for Food Delivery Firm Deliveroo Are Self-Employed

LONDON – Britain’s Court of Appeal confirmed on Thursday that riders for food delivery firm Deliveroo were self-employed, dismissing a union appeal against past judgments on their status. Deliveroo said it was the fourth court judgment in Britain which had … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xWt6ov

South Florida Condominium Tower Partially Collapses, Killing At Least One

A Surfside, Fla. condominium tower partially collapsed early Thursday morning, killing at least one person and leaving 51 people unaccounted for. Approximately 55 units of the 12-story, 136-unit Champlain Towers South building were affected. Firefighters and first responders arrived at … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3vWRi8C

$750K Settlement Reached with Texas Physicians Group over False Claims

The U.S. Justice Department has reached a settlement agreement with a physicians group in El Paso over allegations of violating the false claims act. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas reported that El Paso Ear, Nose … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zRHGzg

Georgia Hospital System Still Recovering From Ransomware Attack

A coastal Georgia hospital system is still struggling to recover from a ransomware attack that shut down its computer systems last week. Local news outlets report that the St. Joseph’s/Candler health system, which operates two hospitals in Savannah and has … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gW4Agg

AM Best Revises Mississippi Farm Bureau Outlooks to Negative

AM Best has revised the outlooks to negative from stable and affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a” (Excellent) of Mississippi Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Company of Jackson, Miss. AM Best … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3dbYFT5

Armed School Employees Require Training, Ohio Supreme Court Says

School districts that allow employees to be armed must also require police-level training for those workers, a divided Ohio Supreme Court ruled on June 23 in a victory for a group of parents who challenged a local district’s armed employee … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gPVwdU

Workers Fired, Resign over Houston Hospital’s COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate

More than 150 employees at a Houston hospital system who refused to get the COVID-19 vaccine have been fired or resigned after a judge dismissed an employee lawsuit over the vaccine requirement. A spokesperson for Houston Methodist hospital system said … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35Qk2FG

People Moves: Corvus Hires from Zurich, IFG; CoverGenius Grabs Munich’s Brune; Kin Names 6 Execs; Snapsheet Promotes Cohen

Corvus Adds Chief Insurance Officer and General Counsel Data science and artificial intelligence-driven commercial insurance provider Corvus Insurance announced the appointment of Lori Bailey as chief insurance officer and Kori Johanson as general counsel. Bailey and Johanson each brings more … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35MvphK

HRH The Prince of Wales launches insurance task force to fight climate change

The task force, chaired by Lloyd's, is comprised of insurance executives and aims to provide a platform for the sector to collectively advance the world’s progress towards a resilient, net-zero economy. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/3qpnPDh

Judge Rejects Spouse’s Wrongful Death Suit Against Airline Over Lax Covid Safety

Citing a concern over “opening the floodgates” to litigation, a federal judge has dismissed a flight attendant’s negligence lawsuit against her employer, Southwest Airlines, which she blamed for her husband’s death from Covid-19. The flight attendant, Carol Madden, claimed that … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qmt5rf

Prince Charles Launches Partnership with Insurance Industry to Tackle Climate Change

His Royal Highness (HRH) the Prince of Wales launched his Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI) Insurance Task Force during a visit today at Lloyd’s. The SMI Insurance Task Force, convened by Prince Charles and chaired by Lloyd’s, is comprised of executives … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2U3atQP

Women Charged in Western Maryland Mobile Home Arson

Two women linked to a mobile home fire in western Maryland last week have been charged with arson, according to Maryland fire investigators. The Office of the State Fire Marshal announced that investigators determined that the women, aged 39 and … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35Of7oD

Massachusetts Man Charged with Identity Theft in Attempt to Buy Luxury Car

A Massachusetts man is suspected of stealing the identities of two people in an attempt to buy an $83,000 car, federal prosecutors said. Brandon Brouillard, 27, of Worcester, was indicted last week on bank fraud and aggravated identity theft charges, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3h3bxfC

Egypt Expects to Finalize Ever Given Compensation Deal Next Week

Egypt expects to finalize an agreement next week for compensation over the giant ship that blocked the Suez Canal in March, according to the waterway’s top official. The Suez Canal Authority will sign a deal with the owners and insurers … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3dsKGbZ

Arch Reinsurance to Acquire Somerset Bridge Group

Arch Reinsurance Ltd., a subsidiary of Arch Capital Group Ltd., announced it plans to acquire Somerset Bridge Group Ltd., Southern Rock Holdings Ltd. and Somerset affiliates, subject to regulatory approval. The proposed acquisition will include Somerset’s motor managing general agent, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qmWstq

Drought Indicators in Western States Flash Warnings of the ‘Big One’

Sarah Brunner opened the irrigation spigots on her farm in March, three months early. The rain should have still been falling in California. Now that summer is taking hold, she and her husband are considering shifting their meager water supplies … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35Mh6d9

Chaucer Forms Lloyd’s Consortium for Firms Working on China’s Belt & Road Initiative

Chaucer, the London-based specialty re/insurance group, announced the launch of a new Belt and Road Consortium at Lloyd’s, which initially will underwrite political violence risks, with future solutions in development for other lines of business. Working with China Re, Chaucer’s … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2U1TtKJ

Some House Republicans Eye Private Sector Plan to Address Climate Change

U.S. House Republicans aim to use private sector to tackle climate change WASHINGTON, June 23 (Reuters) – More than 50 Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday formed a group to discuss how to use the free market … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3vTsUoy

Singapore Reinsurers’ Association Re-elects Executive Committee

The Singapore Reinsurers’ Association (SRA) has re-elected three retiring members of its executive team, which resulted in an unchanged EXCO line-up for the 2021-2022 term. The full line-up of the SRA EXCO is: SRA’s chairman is Marc Haushofer from Validus … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3vZ8YRi

Exxon Weighs Next Move After Judge Rules It Must Face Massachusetts Climate Suit

A Massachusetts state judge has rejected Exxon Mobil Corp.’s bid to dismiss a lawsuit by state Attorney General Maura Healey accusing the oil company of misleading consumers and investors about its role in climate change. In a decision released on … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3h0o833

How the Return to the Office Is Pushing Even More Women Out of Work

The pandemic took a toll on the careers of many working mothers. A rush back to the office is shaping up to be just as damaging. The lack of child care and in-person schooling that has pushed millions of women … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2U1NgOV

Allstate CEO Strategy: More Independent Agents But No More ‘Human Modems’

Allstate Corp. wants to buy more independent insurance agencies this year to build the business it acquired with its purchase of National General, Allstate Chief Executive Tom Wilson told Reuters on Wednesday. But the agents will be there to talk … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2U1NeGN

Motor insurers urged to evolve to meet changing customer needs

Research from By Bits shows drivers of all ages are feeling increasingly unhappy with their motor insurers, while only 11% of providers say they are actively trying to change their approach. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2Uu895H

People Moves: 21 - 25 June

Stay up-to-date with the latest job changes in the world of insurance. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/3qmYjOO

EY and Germany’s Finance Minister Blamed for Oversight Failings in Wirecard Collapse

BERLIN – German lawmakers presenting a report Tuesday into the collapse of the payment processing company Wirecard accused the country’s finance minister and auditors Ernst & Young of numerous oversight failings. Wirecard filed for protection from creditors through insolvency proceedings … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zU3biK

NWS: Suburban Chicago Tornado Had 140 mph Winds

A tornado that swept through Chicago’s western suburbs, damaging more than 100 homes and injuring several people, was packing 140 mph winds when it hit the heavily populated area, the National Weather Service said. A weather service team that surveyed … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qmPF2M

FEMA: Orange County, Texas, Flood Maps Finalized

FEMA says new flood maps for Orange County, Texas, have been finalized and become effective Dec. 16, 2021. Residents are encouraged to examine the maps to determine if they are in a low-to-moderate- or high-risk flood zone. During the next … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gQ6j85

Insurors Indemnity Ratings Unchanged by Colonial Lloyds Announcement: AM Best

AM Best says the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a-” (Excellent) of Insurors Indemnity Companies (Insurors Indemnity), based Waco, Texas, remain unchanged following the recent announcement that the company plans to purchase … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35JOYHs

Fatal Florida Gay Pride Parade Crash Now Seen as Unintentional

A member of a men’s chorus group unintentionally slammed into fellow chorists at the start of a Pride parade in South Florida, killing one member of the group and seriously injuring another, the group’s director said Sunday, correcting initial speculation … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3j8I32u

People Moves: Willis Re’s Loggie to TigerRisk; Aon’s Lee to Lockton Re; Wakam’s Mebarki to Miller

These international People Moves detail appointments at three insurance brokers: TigerRisk Partners, Lockton Re and Miller. A summary of these new hires follows here. TigerRisk Partners LLC, the Stamford, Conn.-based global insurance and reinsurance broker, announced it will appoint James … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xNpd5a

European Commission to Form Cyber Unit to Fight Growing Online Crime

The European Commission proposed on Wednesday to pool resources and expertise from the EU’s 27 countries for a joint cyber unit to fight online criminals amid a spate of high-profile hacks in Europe and worldwide. The EU executive said authorities … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Sm8u9T

Lawsuit Claims Man Struck Dozens of Times in Face by Shots in California

A lawsuit against seven Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies accused them of beating a man dozens of times in the face, leaving him with broken bones and loss of sight in one eye, his attorneys announced. Christopher Bailey has filed … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3ja4JiO

$1M Settlement Reached in Washington Dairy Worker Overtime Suit

Yakima County Superior Court has approved a $1 million settlement that provides retroactive overtime pay for workers at a Lower Yakima Valley dairy. The settlement wraps up a class-action lawsuit filed in 2016 by Jose Martinez-Cuevas and Patricia Aguilar on … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3d6bRck

Latest Boy Scouts Bankruptcy Plan Increases Victims’ Fund, Drops Insurer’s $650M Offer

The latest bankruptcy plan filed by the Boy Scouts of America increases the contributions from the BSA and its local councils to a proposed trust fund for child sex abuse victims while appearing to back away from a controversial settlement … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3wUBXXq

Ex-Principal Suing Oregon School District for Discrimination

A former South Albany High School principal is suing Greater Albany Public Schools, claiming the district racially discriminated against him and created a hostile work environment. Nain “Nate” Munoz filed the suit last month in U.S. District Court in Eugene, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3wPKafy

Labor Crisis Shocking California Restaurants

Sherry Villanueva’s family of Santa Barbara restaurants employed 350 people before the pandemic took hold and darkened dining rooms across California. Now, with the state’s economy officially reopened, about 250 workers are back on the job. Villanueva would hire 100 … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2U1trHS

Swiss Re Sells Half Its Stake in Phoenix Group for $608 Million

Swiss Re announced the sell of a 6.6% stake in Phoenix Group Holdings plc for £437 million ($608 million). After the sale, which is expected to close on June 25, Swiss Re will still retain another 6.6% stake in Phoenix, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qwVOKd

Mass. Dept. of Transportation, Fundación MAPFRE Launch PSA Promoting Road Safety

Fundación MAPFRE and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation have announced a new public service campaign to engage people in changing their behavior on the roads. The campaign is part of an effort to reduce road-related injuries and fatalities, particularly as … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3vQ1kIS

Two Workers Treated for Burns After Fire at Connecticut Plating Company

Two workers at a Connecticut chrome plating company were transported to a burn hospital after a process “went awry” and sparked a flash fire that firefighters were still battling hours later, a task made more difficult by the numerous chemicals … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2SjCnrk

Father of Man Shot by Police in Virginia Beach Files $50M Wrongful Death Suit

The father of a Black man who was fatally shot by police in Virginia Beach has filed a $50 million wrongful death lawsuit. The Virginian-Pilot reported Monday that the federal lawsuit was filed by the father of Donovon Lynch against … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3j5guHi

FAA Makes It Easier for Staff Overseeing Manufacturers to Report Safety Concerns

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said Monday it has launched a program to help make it easier for staff overseeing Boeing and other airplane manufacturers to report safety concerns. An independent survey released in August found FAA safety employees … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3j5E8Dz

Honeycomb, Digital MGA for Multi-Family Property Insurance, Launches with $3.3M

Honeycomb, a managing general agent (MGA) for commercial real estate insurance, announced its North American launch following a $3.3M million raise. Investors in Honeycomb (formerly Agilius) include from Phoenix Insurance, New Era Capital Partners, IT-Farm Corp. and NFP Ventures. San … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qkDN1g

Insurer Begins Accepting Cryptocurrency for Premium Payments

Michigan-based Universal Fire & Casualty Insurance Co. has started accepting cryptocurrency for premium payments. The company, which insures small businesses and offers surety bonds products, says the move is to increase its competitive market position as part of a broader … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3d66Ost

Insuring Cyber Podcast: How Insurtechs Are Helping Insurers Bridge the Digital Divide

As the COVID-19 pandemic has pushed many insurers to embrace more technology, there has been some talk of how insurtechs can step in and help insurers navigate the ever changing digital space. “I think [the pandemic] has brought a lot … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2TRU41I

Insurers, Owners of Seized Ship Reach Agreement in Principle with Suez Canal Authority

ISMAILIA, Egypt – A representative for the owners and insurers of a giant cargo ship that blocked the Suez Canal in March on Wednesday said that an agreement in principle had been reached in a compensation dispute with the canal … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2SY1Vuv

How can insurance grow its social media reach?

Twitter’s director of planning shares top social media tips for the insurance industry and discusses what the sector can do to stay relevant. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/3gUYJsZ

Former Brightside boss Mark Cliff joins Hiscox

He becomes an independent non-executive director alongside James Illingworth and Jane Hayes. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/3j6Ax8u

People Moves: Howden Australia Hires 3 from Marsh; Strategic Risk Solutions Appoints Schons in Luxembourg; Quinn Promoted at Liberty Specialty

These international People Moves include recent appointments at Howden Australia, which hired three people from Marsh; a new hire at Strategic Risk Solutions in Luxembourg and a promotion at Liberty Specialty Markets in London. A summary of these new hires … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3j94hS9

Oklahoma City Doc Pays $325K to Settle Civil Penalty Claims

An Oklahoma City physician has paid more than $300,000 to settle civil penalty claims related drug abuse prevention and control laws, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma reported. Albert T. Nguyen, M.D., paid $325,000 to settle … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3d5NfQZ

Severe Storms, Tornadoes Cause Damage in Iowa, Missouri, Ohio

A tornado damaged several buildings and knocked down power lines and trees in eastern Iowa Sunday night; a tornado near the Ohio-Indiana border damaged houses and other structures; and several parts of Missouri were cleaning up Monday after strong overnight … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qjgPYt

Mercury Launches Usage-Based Car Insurance App Oklahoma

Mercury Insurance has made its usage-based insurance app, MercuryGO, available to drivers in Oklahoma. The app acts as a virtual driving coach, providing skill scores that give real-time feedback about driving behavior, the company said. Mercury auto insurance policyholders who … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3wNYBRp

Seeking More Money, Cities Opt Out of Indiana’s Suits Against Opioid Makers

Several Indiana cities have opted out of the state’s pending lawsuits against opioid manufacturers and distributors, reasoning that they will likely see more cash from their own litigation filed in response to the nation’s opioid epidemic. The suburban Indianapolis cities … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3d1kpRu

Illinois Casualty Gets AM Best Ratings Upgrade

AM Best has upgraded the Financial Strength Rating to A- (Excellent) from B++ (Good) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating (Long-Term ICR) to “a-” (Excellent) from “bbb+” (Good) of Illinois Casualty Co. (ICC), based in Rock Island, Illinois. Concurrently, AM … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35FVsaq

Europe’s Insurers Expect Robust M&A Activity and Strong Earnings in 2021: Moody’s

Europe’s insurance industry is emerging from the coronavirus crisis with a stronger appetite for mergers and acquisitions (M&A), along with expectations for strong earnings growth in 2021, according to Moody’s annual survey of chief financial officers (CFOs) from 21 leading … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gYbQrM

Judge Rules in Favor of New Hampshire Hotel Group in Insurance Dispute

A judge has ruled in favor of a group of hotels whose owners sued their insurance carriers over lost business during the coronavirus pandemic. Businessman Mark Stebbins of Schleicher & Stebbins Hotels LLC, one of the plaintiffs, said the pandemic … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3wUjlXS

ShoreOne Insurance Managers Announces Entry into New Jersey

ShoreOne Insurance Managers Inc. is launching its admitted, residential homeowners policy with full flood insurance protection in New Jersey. This product is already live in South Carolina, and there are plans to expand into other states on the Eastern Seaboard … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gYaptF

People Moves: Merchants’ Lasante Promoted; New Hires at AAU, Ascot

Merchants Insurance Group Promotes Lasante in New England Office Merchants Insurance Group has promoted Regional Underwriting Manager Kevin Lasante to regional vice president of its New England office in Bedford, New Hampshire, effective June 7, 2021. He will assume the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qjLMMf

People Moves: Island Insurance Promotes Tonaki to VP in Claims; PCF in Utah Names Stradling VP of Finance

Island Insurance Co. has promoted Toby Tonaki to vice president, claims. Tonaki will continue to oversee the claims division’s casualty unit. Tonaki joined Island in 2013 and has more than 25 years of litigation experience. Previous positions include law clerk … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gXwbxu

Regulator Objects But Court Clears Bid for $200M From Liquidated Insurer’s Owners

Creditors who say they were swindled out of more than $200 million by the former owners of the liquidated CastlePoint group of insurance companies may proceed with most of the claims they made in a New York lawsuit, a California … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xJ2S8C

City in New Mexico Suing Companies Over Lighting on Problem-Plagued Bus Route

New Mexico’s largest city has sued companies involved in the design and construction of a rapid transit system over light fixtures that have fallen or weren’t secured. The Albuquerque Rapid Transit bus system has been plagued with problems that include … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3vIyA4t

Firefighters in California Working to Contain Large Wildfire

California’s weather moderated after a long siege of extreme heat but firefighters still faced the difficult task of trying to contain a large forest fire in rugged coastal mountains south of Big Sur. The Willow Fire covered 4.4 square miles … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2SMqcnp

Budweiser Insurance, Eh? Beer Maker Taps Into Canadians’ Love for BBQs

The “king of beers”—Budweiser— is venturing into the Canadian insurance industry with the launch of Budweiser Insurance. The major brand made its intentions known in two separate announcements. Addressing those who doubted the seriousness of the effort, Mike D’Agostini, Budweiser … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zQOq0u

Georgia Fire Marshal Report on Warehouse Fire Cites Pellet Stacks, Low Water Pressure

The size of wood pellet stacks and low water pressure may have contributed to a spectacular blaze that burned for days in May at a warehouse on the Georgia coast. The Brunswick News reports that Georgia Ports Authority Chief Administrative … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2SoqEIg

BHSI Launches Energy & Technical Lines Casualty Products in UK with Dedicated Team

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI) announced it has launched Energy and Technical Lines Casualty products in the UK and established a dedicated London-based Energy & Technical Lines underwriting team. The company’s UK Casualty Energy & Technical Lines team includes: Oliver … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3d0syFO

Accenture Invests in Swiss Digital Payments Company Imburse

Accenture has invested in Imburse, a cloud-based, payments-as-a-service enterprise platform that simplifies the way businesses access the global payments ecosystem. Financial details of the investment, which was made via Accenture Ventures, were not disclosed. Founded in Zurich, Switzerland in 2018, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3vNLtun

Supreme Court Adds Check on Patent Tribunal Judges, Giving Director Review Power

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday allowed a U.S. Patent and Trademark Office tribunal that has gained a reputation for canceling patents to continue operating, but reined in the power of its in-house judges. The justices, in a 5-4 ruling … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3d2wRk7

SEC Looking Into Whether Firms Failed to Disclose Effects of SolarWinds Cyber Breach

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has opened a probe into last year’s SolarWinds cyber breach, focusing on whether some companies failed to disclose that they had been affected by the unprecedented hack, two persons familiar with the investigation … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zLJXMd

AXA Partners with Hong Kong Broadband Network to Offer Homeowners Insurance

Hong Kong Broadband Network Ltd. (HKBN) is now offering customers an “All-in-One Home Kit,” complete with fiber broadband service and home insurance from AXA Hong Kong and Macau (AXA). The kit also has a home network security solution and smart … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3wQdEtL

Insurtech Zego launches trans and non-binary workplace policy

The commercial motor insurance provider will offer unlimited therapy sessions and paid leave for those undergoing transition from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/3jf1d75

Generali Agrees to Buy AXA’s Malaysian P/C and Life Insurance Units

MILAN/PARIS/KUALA LUMPUR – Italy’s top insurer Generali has agreed to buy AXA’s insurance assets in Malaysia and take full ownership of a joint-venture it runs in the country to strengthen its local presence. The deals will turn Generali into the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2UhZF1q

Assessing Options for Managing the Risks and Insuring Communicable Diseases

Within weeks, it had all changed. As a pandemic spread and took root in an unprepared world, many organizations were finding out that their insurance policies would not cover the one event that had brought global business to a standstill … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Ul1ESB

Florida Supreme Court Ruling Pulls Marijuana Proposal From 2022 Ballot

A proposed constitutional amendment to allow recreational marijuana use in Florida won’t be on the 2022 ballot after the state Supreme Court ruled last week that the ballot language was misleading. The court, in a 5-2 decision, said proposed ballot … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xJnL3P

People Moves: Srygley in New C&F Role; Lopez Joins Mosaic; CLARA Names CEO; IronHealth Has New President

Crum & Forster Adds Srygley in Captives, Gig Economy Roles Further strengthening its Captive Solutions and Sharing (Gig) Economy practices, Crum & Forster’s Accident & Health (A&H) Division has appointed C&F veteran Mark Srygley to help drive its efforts in … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gHQWyf

Vaccination Rate for Public Safety Workers in L.A. Below Average

COVID-19 vaccination rates for police and firefighting personnel in Los Angeles and prison employees across California are significantly lower than the state’s average for other adults, raising concerns among medical ethicists and public safety leaders about whether unvaccinated first responders … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gQdH1V

Arizona Governor Signs $100M Wildfire Funding Bill

Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey has signed a bill rushed through in a special legislative session that provides $100 million in funding this year to battle wildfires, react to the damage they cause and to create a new force of more … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3wLGI5L

Newspaper Carrier Confronted by Washington Sheriff Seeks $5M in Damages

A Black newspaper carrier confronted by Pierce County Sheriff Ed Troyer in Washingotn has filed a legal claim seeking at least $5 million in damages. Attorneys representing Sedrick Altheimer submitted the tort claim against the county on Tuesday, contending Troyer’s … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35FLwh5

Seacor: Pay Debt With $25M in Overturned Louisiana Boat’s Insurance

The owner of an offshore oilfield boat that overturned off Louisiana plans to use $25 million in insurance on the vessel to pay down part of the Texas company’s debts. Attorneys for families of men killed when the Seacor Power … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zMeREf

Supreme Court Backs Goldman Sachs Escape from Securities Class Action

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday handed a victory to Goldman Sachs Group Inc. in its bid to avoid an investor class action lawsuit accusing the bank of hiding conflicts of interest when creating risky subprime securities before the 2008 … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3cW27Bq

Sri Lanka Ship Disaster Causes ‘Significant Damage to the Planet’: UN

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – The UN representative in Sri Lanka said the sinking of a container ship that caught fire while transporting chemicals off the capital Colombo has caused “a significant damage to the planet” by releasing hazardous substances into … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2UnJdNj

CFC Underwriting’s Lloyd’s Syndicate Opens for Trading

CFC, the London-based managing general agent, announced that CFC Syndicate 1988 is open for business. In addition to risk capital provided by CFC, the syndicate worked with Aon Capital Advisory to attract third-party capital support including a large pension fund, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zHTUKB

Supreme Court Turns Away Insurers’ Bid Over Obamacare Reimbursements

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday declined to hear a bid by health insurance companies to seek a full reimbursement from the federal government under a provision of the Obamacare law aimed at encouraging them to offer medical coverage to … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zIj9N1

UK Financial Services Sector Cautions About Legislating Work-from-Home Options

LONDON – How people divide their working hours between home and office should develop naturally over time and not be forced into law, senior financial services industry officials said on Monday. Britain has indicated it may legislate to allow people … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xEwofK

North Carolina Sheriff’s Office Settles Excessive Force Claims for $6M

A North Carolina sheriff’s office has agreed to a $6 million settlement in a lawsuit in which six families accused the department of a pattern of using excessive force doled out by deputies who had allegedly referred to themselves as … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2STtFjP

Court Grants Florida Bid to Halt CDC Broad Shutdown of Cruise Industry

A federal judge on Friday ruled for Florida in a lawsuit challenging a U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention order making it difficult for cruise ships to resume sailing due to the coronavirus pandemic. U.S. District Judge Steven Merryday … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3vKHFdl

Severe Thunderstorms, Tornado Slam Chicago; Injuries, Power Outage, Property Damage Reported

Severe thunderstorms tore through the Chicago area on Sunday night after the National Weather Service said a “confirmed large and extremely dangerous tornado” had touched down in a western suburb of the city, causing damage. Chicago-area utility Commonwealth Edison’s (ComEd) … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3cW5IPC

Czech Utility CEZ Manages to Find Insurance After 2 Providers Exit from Coal Coverages

PRAGUE — Czech utility CEZ said on Friday it had found alternative insurance for its coal-fired power plants after two providers said they would stop covering them from next year as part of an industry drive to drop climate-damaging business. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3iYy4Nk

Man in Prison for Maryland Arsons Linked to Delaware Fires

A man serving time for Maryland arsons is accused of starting fires in two Delaware beach towns last year. The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal announced Thursday that it has obtained warrants for Richard Lodeski of Wilmington for … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qcJbnj

Vermont Hospital Still Calculating Cost of Ransomware Attack

Officials at Vermont’s largest hospital are still trying to determine the full financial impact of the cyber attack last October that knocked out computers affecting three hospitals in Vermont and three in New York. Scheduling and patient medical records were … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zIpaJC

Tropical Depression Claudette Triggers Flash Flooding in South

Jun 20 2021— Forecasters warned of life-threatening flash flooding in parts of the Deep South, particularly across central Alabama, as Tropical Depression Claudette traveled over coastal states early Sunday. Heavy rain led to high water late Saturday into early Sunday … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35HDnZE

Connecticut Casinos Sue Insurer Over COVID-19 Losses

The Native American tribe that owns Connecticut’s Mohegan Sun casino is suing its insurance carrier over what it says was the denial of claims for millions of dollars in losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Day in New London … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qb9vOE

CEO Views: Successes and Failures in Dealing with Pandemic Challenges

As insurance professionals prepare for mask-free life and opportunities to exchange ideas in person, industry leaders took the virtual stage again at a midyear conference, recounting industry lessons learned during the 15 months since COVID distancing began. John Neal, chief … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3cTSeE8

CFC Syndicate 1988 begins trading

The syndicate is writing approximately 20% of CFC’s established portfolio, which it said will generate around £100m in gross premium. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/3qgaq0o

8 Reinsurers Provide $897M Cover for Lloyd’s Central Fund with Aon as Placing Broker

Lloyd’s announced the marketplace has secured a five-year £650 million ($897 million) reinsurance cover for its Central Fund—a move that aims to protect against adverse tail risk, while supporting growth and bolstering the market’s balance sheet. The £650 million protection, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2TLsUtk

Owners of Ship that Blocked Suez Make New Compensation Offer with Canal Authority

ISMAILIA, Egypt – The owners of a container ship that blocked the Suez Canal in March have made a new offer in a compensation dispute with the canal authority, and a court ruling on the case was postponed for two … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3cZRayu

Citgo to Pay Additional $19.7M for Damage from Louisiana Refinery Spill

Citgo Petroleum Corp. of Houston has agreed to pay $19.7 million for environmental damage from a 2006 spill at a Louisiana refinery, the U.S. Department of Justice said. The agreement settles both state and federal environmental claims from the 2.2-million-gallon … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gOVhP9

Nebraska to Offer Additional Payments for 2019 Flood Recovery

Nebraska will pay out public assistance beyond what it normally offers to local governments hit by the 2019 floods, a state agency announced. The Nebraska Emergency Management Agency said Gov. Pete Ricketts has approved the payments for the state’s share … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2UqgA29

Flood Concerns Prompt Louisiana Parish to Pause New Development

A parish council in Louisiana has approved a one-year moratorium on new development in part of its jurisdiction to address concerns about drainage following severe flash flooding in May. Iberville Parish Council unanimously voted on June 15 to halt the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qbVLmP

Training on Louisiana Sex Misconduct Rules for Colleges to Begin Soon

Louisiana’s college administrators will start receiving training this summer on new requirements for how sexual misconduct claims must be handled and what safety measures must be enacted, the state’s higher education chief said on June 16. Lawmakers in the just-ended … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3cWZOxE

N.D. Counties Join Ban on Private Fireworks Due to Drought

Burleigh and Morton counties have joined the city of Mandan in banning the private use of fireworks during the July Fourth holiday season due to the widespread drought in North Dakota. Rural fire chiefs in both counties recommended the bans … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gRN9gI

People Moves: KAIA Hires Goodman; New Shareholders at Holmes Murphy; AmericanAg Adds Nuehring

KAIA Josh Goodman is joining the Kansas Association of Insurance Agents’ (KAIA) team as its new director of Business Development, as of July 12. Goodman had been active in KAIA leadership for many years, including as a KAIA board member … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zDTpkS

FBI Says Don’t Pay Ransom While Tax Advisors Say Payment May Be Tax Deductible

WASHINGTON — As ransomware attacks surge, the FBI is doubling down on its guidance to affected businesses: Don’t pay the cybercriminals. But the U.S. government also offers a little-noticed incentive for those who do pay: The ransoms may be tax … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xwEdUE

Takeaways from Auditable Policies and Cannabis Conversation

When states declared cannabis operators essential during the pandemic, that kept cannabis dispensary doors open and boosted sales. That was fine and well, but it also had the effect of pushing up the costs of auditable policies – giving some … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2SIxkkG

7 Major Cyber Insurers Form Company to Coordinate Cyber Analysis, Risk Mitigation

With cyber attacks and insurance claims on the rise, leading cyber insurers AIG, AXIS, Beazley, Chubb, The Hartford, Liberty Mutual Insurance and Travelers have formed a company to pool their data and expertise and take collective efforts to enhance cyber … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xANXgL

Survey: 10 States See Strong Growth in Rural Areas

Strong growth continues across rural parts of 10 Plains and Western states and three states now have more jobs than they did before the coronavirus pandemic began, according to a monthly survey of bankers. The overall Rural Mainstreet economic index … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qfqHCo

Tropical Storm Claudette Pounds Gulf Coast with Rain, Floods

Thunderstorms and high winds on the east side of Tropical Storm Claudette battered the Florida panhandle and much of Alabama on Saturday, as the weather system moved toward the North Carolina coast. The National Hurricane Center declared Claudette organized enough … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3vD61Wc

Grim California Wildfire Outlook Has Insurers Forking Over Big Bucks for Modeling

Severe drought and searing temperatures are not the only proof that Californians should be worried about wildfires this year. A glaring piece of evidence that there’s ample cause for concern is this: those who will be on the hook for … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35z1Xvo

Ship Carrying Chemicals Sinks Near Sri Lanka Capital, Prompting Pollution Fears

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – A container ship carrying chemicals sank off Sri Lanka’s capital on Thursday nearly a month after catching fire, raising concerns about a possible environmental disaster. The ship’s operator said the wreck of the Singapore-flagged X-Press Pearl … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gBYkv2

Scale Underwriting Introduces Social Media Influencer Liability

Scale Underwriting, a Founder Shield company that provides tailored insurance products for high-growth companies, has launched Scale Social, a media liability insurance policy for social media influencers and their agencies. Scale Social provides US-based influencers and agencies, particularly those with … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xqz40q

South Dakota Records Second Earthquake This Month

Another earthquake has been recorded in South Dakota, the fifth since December. According to the United States Geological Survey, a 2.6 magnitude quake was recorded about 6:30 a.m. Wednesday with the epicenter about 60 miles east of Rapid City. It’s … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zzBwUh

People Moves: Carpenter’s Schwebach to Aon’s Reinsurance Solutions; Mellor to Credit and Political Risks Team at Miller

This wrap-up of international People Moves details two recent appointments at Aon’s Reinsurance Solutions and insurance broker Miller, in Minneapolis and London, respectively. A summary of these new hires follows here. Insurance broker Aon plc announced that Eric Schwebach has … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3qeXNCz

People Moves: W.R. Berkley Corporation Promotes Middleton; PMA Companies Promotes Hopper

Middleton Appointed President of Berkley Mid-Atlantic Group W. R. Berkley Corporation has appointed Michelle D. Middleton as president of Berkley Mid-Atlantic Group (BMAG). She succeeds John F. Kearns, who has been named chairman of the operating unit and will remain … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gHs34z

AM Best Upgrades Credit Ratings of Southern Mutual Church Insurance

AM Best has upgraded the Financial Strength Rating to A (Excellent) from A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating to “a” (Excellent) from “a-” (Excellent) of Southern Mutual Church Insurance Co. in Columbia, South Carolina. The ratings firm also … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gCPb5D

Aon-WTW Merger Would Help Boost Industry’s Innovation. Aon CEO Makes the Case.

The enhanced ability to innovate is a principal motivator for Aon’s proposed acquisition of Aon and Willis Towers Watson. It’s a message that Aon CEO Greg Case has been emphasizing since the $30 billion deal was announced in March 2020. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3cOW81e

FEMA Extends Aid Deadline in 31 Kentucky Counties Hit by Flooding

Federal emergency officials have extended a deadline for Kentuckians to register for assistance due to damage from severe flooding, Gov. Andy Beshear said. The deadline to apply for help from the Individual Assistance program is now July 8, he said. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35xjZOT

New Mexico Public Defender Agency Settles Gender Pay-Gap Suit

Several female attorneys and investigators at the state Law Offices of the Public Defender are getting raises to resolve a lawsuit that alleged unfair compensation in comparison with better-paid male colleagues. Five employees at the public defender’s offices are receiving … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3wD0Y9G

Waymo in California Getting $2.5B to Fuel Self-Driving Ambitions

Waymo, the self-driving car pioneer spun off from Google, isn’t allowing a recent wave of executive departures to detour its plans to expand its robotic taxi service. The Mountain View, California, company made that clear Wednesday by announcing it has … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3vxFiKE

Ex-Shake Shack Worker in New York Accused of Poisoning Cops’ Shakes Sues

A former New York Shake Shack manager has filed a lawsuit against the Detectives’ Endowment Association, the Police Benevolent Association, and about 20 unnamed officers accusing them of false arrest and defamation. Marcus Gilliam and other employees were accused by … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zAdSac

Banning Spectators Is ‘Least Risky’ Option for Tokyo 2020 Games: Medical Experts

TOKYO – Japanese medical experts said on Friday that banning spectators at the Olympics was the least risky option for holding the Games, even as they appeared resigned to the possibility of fans in venues during the COVID-19 pandemic. The … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gAzMmk

Suit Filed Against 11 Skilled Nursing Facilities in New York for Fraud, Unnecessary Services

A civil healthcare fraud lawsuit against 11 New York-based skilled nursing facilities alleges that they fraudulently inflated Medicare reimbursements by prolonging patient stays without regard to patients’ medical needs. The suit also alleges these facilities billed for excessive rehabilitation therapy … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gAZWoN

Return to Work Delayed by Doctors Ignoring Treatment Guidelines for Back Pain: Study

Medical guidelines help doctors understand the best way to treat health conditions yet many doctors do not adhere to them, and this is a problem in particular for patients with back pain, according to scientists at University of Utah Health … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gAGwAr

Bamboo Insurance Acquires First American P/C Agency to Expand Nationally

Bamboo Insurance has acquired certain of the assets of First American Property and Casualty Insurance Agency of Santa Ana, Calif. from parent company title insurer, First American Financial Corp., which is exiting the property/casualty business. The assets acquired by the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zL3SLB

More Defendants Plead Guilty in Louisiana Staged Auto Crash Cases

Two more defendants have pleaded guilty conspiring to stage automobile accidents in order to defraud insurance and trucking companies. The defendants from Orleans and Jefferson Parishes pleaded guilty before United States District Court Judge Sarah S. Vance to helping stage … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3wBdx5i

Drought Contributes to Rise in North Dakota Wildfires

The number of wildfires this year in North Dakota has increased significantly, according to state officials, who cite extremely dry conditions. Data collected by the North Dakota Forest Service and the state Department of Emergency Services shows nearly 1,400 fires … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gyYGCC

South Sioux City Council OKs Settlement Over Biogas Plant

The South Sioux City Council in Iowa has approved payment of $500,000 to settle its part in 16 lawsuits filed against the city and a now-defunct biogas plant by homeowners who accused the plant of sending rancid fumes through the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gBlLF4

Louisiana to Give Child Sex Abuse Victims More Time to File Suits

Gov. John Bel Edwards has signed legislation removing deadlines for Louisiana’s child sex abuse victims to pursue damages in civil court, delivering a victory to survivors of abuse at the hands of Catholic clergy. The new law, taking effect Aug. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2SFywFj

Protester Sues New Orleans Police, City for Injuries from Gas Grenade

A woman who says she was seriously injured when a tear gas grenade struck her head last year during a protest after the killing of George Floyd is suing New Orleans police and city officials. Katharine Archer’s federal suit says … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3wwfMGW

5 Nebraskans Hurt When Boat Explodes at Missouri Lake

Five people from Nebraska were seriously injured when a boat exploded at the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri. The Missouri State Highway Patrol said the explosion happened near Sunrise Beach. The boat was docked when a mechanical failure caused … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gz667G

People Moves: Furlong Joins accūrō Solutions; Safety National Hires O’Grady

accūrō Solutions Hires Furlong as Chief Strategy Officer accūrō Solutions has hired George Furlong as chief strategy officer. He brings experience in workers’ compensation and managed care to the new medical bill review and provider payment technology company. Most recently, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3vyTRh5

Supreme Court Rejects Latest Republican Challenge to Obamacare

The U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday rejected a Republican bid that had been backed by former President Donald Trump’s administration to invalidate the Obamacare healthcare law, ruling that Texas and other challengers had no legal standing to file their lawsuit. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3wDImpO

Report Points to Trouble Connecting Rail Cars Before Worker Death in New Hampshire

Five attempts were made to connect two rail cars during a switching operation before a Pan Am Railways conductor was pinned between them and died, according to a preliminary report issued Tuesday by the National Transportation Safety Board. Police in … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3q1HM2V

New Florida Law on Reinsurance Goes into Effect in July

A newly-enacted Florida law revises reinsurance statutes, providing insurers with credit for reinsurance and eliminating additional collateral requirements for a reinsurer if it is domiciled in a “reciprocal jurisdiction” and meets other requirements. The measure (SB 728), signed into law … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35CnAuN

Fire Danger Rises as Heat Grips Parts of Montana, Wyoming

Authorities warned of extreme wildfire dangers as a sweltering heat wave was forecast to intensify across much of Montana and northern Wyoming on Tuesday after already delivering record high temperatures. National Weather Service forecasters said the highs could approach 110 … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2THexX3

eMaxx to Offer Warranty Programs for Alternative Energy Projects

eMaxx, a tech-enabled specialty provider of commercial property and casualty insurance programs, now offers the ability to provide its alternative energy warranty products through a variable cost captive solution. The suite of warranty programs provide support to manufacturers, developers and … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xsuvTl

Judge OKs $15M Settlement in Arizona Over Rape of Incapacitated Woman

A judge has approved a $15 million settlement against a doctor in a lawsuit by the parents of an incapacitated woman who was sexually assaulted and later gave birth at a Phoenix, Ariz. long-term care center, marking the last of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3q3zSpv

Pennsylvania Launches Program to Support Innovation, New Insurance Products

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) has launched a new program that aims to encourage the insurance industry to deliver innovative insurance solutions and products. Keystone Smart Launch seeks to help reduce barriers and speed up the regulatory process so Pennsylvania … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3iOHB9y

California Farmers Being Told Drought Could Cut Off Their Water

Thousands of Central California farmers were warned Tuesday that they could face water cutoffs this summer as the state deals with a drought that already has curtailed federal and state irrigation supplies. The State Water Resources Control Board notified about … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3iOtYXK

Panel Approves Pennsylvania House GOP Bill to Ban Employer Vaccine Mandates

A ban on employers mandating vaccines for their workers inched ahead in the Pennsylvania House on Tuesday with a committee vote supported by all Republicans and opposed by every Democrat. The main sponsor, Rep. Russ Diamond, R-Lebanon, called it “a … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3q3O2a7

Family Sues Georgia Health Center Over Handling of Mentally Disabled Man

JONESBORO, Ga. — The family of a mentally disabled man is suing a Georgia behavioral health system, saying its employees forced him onto a bus to Atlanta where he wandered the streets and suffered from hypothermia. The lawsuit was filed … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3vAHTDs

The Two Leading Mobile Telematics Firms Are Now One

Cambridge Mobile Telematics has acquired rival TrueMotion for an undisclosed price in a deal that give it an expanded presence and capabilities in the global auto insurance market. The cash and stock transaction closed on June 17. CMT declined to … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gFTCeD

Court Says Google Must Face Shareholder Lawsuit Over Hiding Security Risks

A U.S. appeals court on Wednesday revived a lawsuit in which shareholders of Google parent Alphabet Inc. accused the company of fraudulently concealing security vulnerabilities, including in its Google+ social network. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2S3NVim

Half of Cosmetics Contain Toxic PFAS Chemicals

More than half the cosmetics sold in the United States and Canada are awash with a toxic industrial compound associated with serious health conditions, including cancer and reduced birth weight, according to a new study. Researchers at the University of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2S8qlRI

Mississippi Yards Flood Due to Barge Stuck on Alabama Dam

A barge is stuck against a dam in Alabama, causing flooded yards in Mississippi, officials said. The barge can’t be removed from the Tom Bevill Lock and Dam in Aliceville, Alabama, until the water goes down, Lowndes County Emergency Management … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35zj5RG

Studies Find Crash Rates Rise When States Legalize Marijuana; Suggest Link to Alcohol

Researchers report increasing evidence is that motor vehicle crash rates rise when states legalize recreational use and retail sales of marijuana, although what effects marijuana by itself has on drivers remains unclear. Crash rates spiked with the legalization of recreational … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2UhzYhL

Goldman Sachs-Backed Broker Aston Lark Buys Premier Insurance Consultants

Premier Insurance Consultants Ltd. is the latest brokerage to be snapped up by Aston Lark, the insurance broking consolidator backed by Goldman Sachs. This takes Aston Lark’s total number of acquisitions up to 15 so far in 2021. Established in … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2S3jw3I

U.S. Justice Department Files Suit to Block Aon’s Purchase of Willis Towers Watson

Aon’s proposed $30 billion acquisition of Willis Towers Watson has hit a major roadblock, with the U.S. Department of Justice suing to block the deal. The DOJ’s civil antitrust lawsuit argues that the merger, which would bring together two of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35tGkNm

Cornerstone Acquires Cannabis Specialist CLIC in California

Cornerstone Risk Solutions LLC, a Denver, Colo.-based subsidiary of IMA Inc., has acquired CLIC Management NV LLC, a managing general agent of group-based insurance programs for the legal cannabis industry. CLIC Management has offices in San Diego, Calif., and serves … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3guCtpq

Michigan to Insurers: Zero-Dollar Claim Is Not a Loss

Michigan insurance regulators are reminding property/casualty insurers that relying on “zero-dollar claim” in their insureds’ loss history is not allowed. In Bulletin 2021-27-INS, issued by Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services Director Anita Fox, the DIFS said some P/C … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gCphOf

Texas Tortilla Factory Fined $218K for Workplace Safety Violations

A San Marcos, Texas-based tortilla manufacturer has been cited for repeat and serious workplace safety violations, and faces penalties of more than $200,000, federal regulators say. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration said previous inspections have given the operators of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xnpwn1

California OKs Farmers and Zesty.ai Wildfire Risk Assessments, Will Bring 30K New Homeowners Policies

California regulators have approved a plan by Farmers Insurance to assess wildfire risk by using a tool that combines artificial intelligence with high-resolution aerial photography. The carrier said the Z-Fire risk scoring model developed by Zesty.ai is expected to make … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3cNzfuP

Davies to Acquire San Antonio Claims Specialist IAS

UK-based Davies, a specialist professional services and technology business serving insurance and highly regulated markets, has agreed to acquire San Antonio-based IAS Claim Services (IAS). IAS provides a range of tech-enabled claims solutions including desk adjusting, field adjusting and third … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35osbkq

Feds Inspected Illinois Chemical Plant Weeks Before Explosion, Fires

A northern Illinois chemical plant that was rocked by an explosion and massive fires that prompted evacuations was inspected by a federal agency less than a month before the blast sent debris raining down onto nearby areas. Inspectors from the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3pXazpe

Credit Suisse Begins Filing Insurance Claims Over Greensill Capital Collapse- FT

Swiss bank Credit Suisse has prepared its first insurance claims on losses stemming from its $10 billion of funds tied to collapsed finance group Greensill Capital, the Financial Times reported on Wednesday. Credit Suisse is attempting to recoup billions of … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3q22LCM

People Moves: Jencap’s Maher, XS Brokers’ Mordarski Promoted; AGCS Hires Two

New York’s Jencap Group Promotes Maher to President Jencap Group LLC, a New York-headquartered national wholesale intermediary, has promoted Mark Maher to president. In his new role, Maher will work with the Jencap management team to develop strategic plans, drive … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3wvFZ8D

Maine Eyes Tougher Lead Testing in School Drinking Water

Maine lawmakers want to strengthen lead testing in school drinking water. The Maine Legislature has been considering a proposal to decrease the standard for lead in drinking water from 15 parts per billion to four parts per billion. The Maine … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zykvKj

New Hampshire Set to Increase Penalties for Some DWI Crashes

A New Hampshire bill aimed at strengthening penalties for repeat drunk drivers is headed to the governor’s desk. The House on Thursday agreed to the Senate’s version of Tyler Shaw’s Law, named for a 20-year-old Concord man who died in … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3q1qWAU

Arizona Legislature Holding Special Wildfire Funding Session

The Arizona Legislature will convene in special session this week to consider adding $100 million in funding for fighting wildfires and to boost the amount of money available to clear hazardous brush and deal with the damage of flooding from … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3wwVxsM

Utah Traffic Deaths Involving Alcohol Doubled During Pandemic

Transportation officials have reported nearly twice as many people died in alcohol-involved crashes on Utah roads last year compared to the year before, despite less commuter traffic during the coronavirus pandemic. The state Department of Transportation said there were 61 … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zyf2D2

USAA to Acquire Insurtech Noblr to Offer Its Members Usage-Based Auto Coverage

Insurer USAA is buying Noblr, an insurtech digital insurer offering behavior-based auto insurance. USAA, a Texas-based insurer focused on members of the U.S. military and their families, said the acquisition will help make it more competitive by modernizing its offerings. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3grWZXN

A.J. Gallagher Acquires Ontario’s Excess Underwriting Co.

Global insurance broker Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. has acquired Markham, Ontario-based Excess Underwriting Co., a property/casualty managing general agency (MGA) and Lloyd’s broker serving insurance brokers and their clients across Canada. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Excess … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3cMsrhc

Royal Caribbean Delays Cruise Launch After 8 Crew Test Positive for COVID-19

Royal Caribbean Group said on Wednesday it would delay the inaugural sailing of its Odyssey of the Seas cruise liner by nearly a month after eight crew members tested positive for COVID-19. The news comes a week after two people … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gwYX9s

Managed Care Firm Centene to Pay $55.5M to Settle Mississippi Overcharging Claim

JACKSON, Miss. — A managed care company has agreed to pay Mississippi $55.5 million to settle a lawsuit that accused one of its subsidiaries of overcharging the state’s Medicaid program for pharmacy benefits management. Attorney General Lynn Fitch and Auditor … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3pW8b20

U.S. Water, Power Cyber Networks Are Shockingly Vulnerable to Hacks

When the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power was hacked in 2018, it took a mere six hours. Early this year, an intruder lurked in hundreds of computers related to water systems across the U.S. In Portland, Oregon, burglars … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gup9kK

Biden Regulators Plan Safety Standards for Truck Brakes, Autonomous Vehicles

DETROIT (AP) — In a reversal from Trump administration policies, U.S. auto safety regulators say they will move to require or set standards for automatic emergency braking systems on new heavy trucks. The Department of Transportation, which includes the National … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gIMb6G

Centene Reserves Additional $1.1 Billion to Settle Pharmacy Disputes

Centene Corp. agreed to pay settlements to Ohio and Mississippi to resolve claims that it inflated pharmacy costs, and the health insurer reserved $1.1 billion to resolve similar claims in other states. Centene, the country’s largest seller of Medicaid health … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35qTnPn

Investors Ask SEC for More ESG Disclosures as Companies Resist: Analysis

Investor groups have asked the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission for more corporate disclosures on climate change and other environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues while business interests have pushed back, a Reuters review of correspondence published by the regulator … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Sv6egR

COVID Crisis Cuts Global Macro Resilience, Raises Insurance Protection Gap: Swiss Re

The COVID-19 crisis reduced overall global macro resilience – or the ability of societies to absorb shocks – by 18% in 2020 from 2019, according to a sigma report published by Swiss Re Institute. At the same time, the report … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3wv47bj

Geo adds Arnott Marine book to portfolio

The transfer sees Steve Gordon join Geo Underwriting as product head while the Ardonagh-owned entity expands its marine proposition. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/3gzA2Rq

Arizona Settlement Reached with Parents Whose Son Was Killed by Officer

The parents of a man fatally shot five years ago by a Mesa police officer at an Arizona hotel has agreed to settle their legal claims against the city over their son’s death. The Arizona Republic reported that the city … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2TxGoZI

New Mexico AG Opposes California’s Blocking of California Insurance Company’s Redomestication

New Mexico’s Attorney General has moved to intervene in a lawsuit in which the California Insurance Co.’s is fighting actions by the California Department of Insurance to block CIC’s redomestication to New Mexico. New Mexico Attorney General Herbert Balderas, Jr. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3iKYaDk

Explosion, Fire at Illinois Chemical Plant Prompt Evacuations

An explosion at a chemical plant in northern Illinois sparked massive fires that sent flames and huge plumes of thick black smoke high into the air Monday morning, prompting evacuations. Emergency crews rushed to the scene of the 7:30 a.m. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2TyZNcy

Jury Finds Wisconsin Auto Parts Seller Guilty of Age Discrimination

An internet-based auto parts seller in Madison, Wisconsin, violated federal law when it failed to hire a qualified job applicant because of his age, a jury has found. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) said the jury found RockAuto … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35Ck6sB

Increase in Homeowners Claims Spurs Higher Insurance Prices in Missouri

Severe weather trends and an increase in claims are impacting the price of homeowners insurance in Missouri, regulators say. A recent report issued by the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance shows that homeowners insurance claims have increased at a … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35nJB0v

Vehicle Crashes into Guard Rail at Texas Racetrack, Injuring 8

Eight people were injured when a vehicle crashed through a guardrail and plowed into a crowd at a mud racing event in Texas. The crash happened at about 6:30 p.m. on June 13 at a racetrack in Fabens, Texas, about … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35o3l45

Insurors Indemnity to Buy Colonial Lloyds, Expanding Residential Coverage

Waco, Texas-based Insurors Indemnity has signed a definitive agreement to purchase insurance carrier Colonial Lloyds, headquartered in Fort Worth, pending regulatory approval. Colonial Lloyds has been serving the Texas homeowners insurance market since 1981. Insurors Indemnity said it is positioned … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2TtTM0O

New York City’s 1,000-Lawyer Law Department Targeted by Cyber Attack

New York City’s law department was been hit with a cyber attack that forced officials to take the 1,000-lawyer agency offline, but Mayor Bill de Blasio said he believes no data was compromised in the hack. “To this hour we … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3voOMrv

Hedron Network adds Markel UK to panel

The GRP-owned network says members will have full access to Markel UK’s product range including professional indemnity, care, charity and community groups, and cyber. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/3zwzF2r

Washington City Paying $333K to Family of Man Shot in 2016

The City of Forks has paid $333,000 to settle a civil-rights lawsuit filed by relatives of a man who was shot and killed by police in 2016 after an officer allegedly escalated a welfare check into a deadly confrontation. The … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gAuztp

Widow of New Mexico Police Officer Files Wrongful Death Suit

The widow of a New Mexico State Police officer fatally shot in the line of duty in February has filed a wrongful death lawsuit, asserting the agency failed to equip her husband. The Albuquerque Journal reported that Gabriella Jarrott filed … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gwHnCx

$15M Award for Embryos Ruined at California Fertility Clinic

A jury has awarded nearly $15 million to five people who lost eggs or embryos when a cryogenic storage tank failed at a fertility clinic. A federal jury made the award in a lawsuit filed over the 2018 tank failure … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zrexL9

Massachusetts Construction Company Owner Charged with Payroll, Workers’ Comp Fraud

The owner of a Revere, Massachusetts, construction company was sentenced on June 10, 2021, on charges of engaging in an under-the-table payroll fraud scheme that defrauded the government of more than $500,000 and insurance carriers of approximately $93,000. Ralph Caruso, … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3iIyNlB

Former Massachusetts Gym Teacher Accused of Rape Files Counterclaim

A former Massachusetts middle school gym teacher, accused in a lawsuit of raping a student years ago, has filed a counterclaim against the parents who sued him. John Blake, a former Duxbury Middle School teacher, in his counterclaim alleges that … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3vrVVrh

Supreme Court Could Add Harvard Case on Race in College Admissions to Agenda

With abortion and guns already on the agenda, the conservative-dominated Supreme Court is considering adding a third blockbuster issue — whether to ban consideration of race in college admissions. The justices could say as soon as Monday whether they will … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2SutNX4

Researchers Find Rideshare Use Linked to Decrease in Collisions and Impaired Driving

The increased use of ridesharing apps appears to be associated with a decrease in motor vehicle collisions and impaired driving convictions,. That’s according to research by The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth). The findings based on … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2RWad5A

Georgia Jury Awards $500K to Woman Who Sued Over Sexual Abuse by Pastor

A Georgia jury has awarded $500,000 to a woman who sued her former pastor, alleging that he had sexually abused her for years, starting when she was 15 years old. Jurors in Columbus found that Lewis Clemons, who led the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3goHVKw

People Moves: Carpenter Hires AXA XL’s Gressier; Aon’s Bisset to Lockton Re; BHSI Canada Promotes Knight

This wrap-up of international People Moves details recent appointments at reinsurance brokers Guy Carpenter & Co. and Lockton Re and insurer Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI). A summary of these new hires follows here. Guy Carpenter & Co., the reinsurance … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2U9w8qM

Study Says Earthquakes Are Increasing in U.S. Oil Regions

The number of noticeable earthquakes has been increasing year after year since 2017 in the key oil producing regions of the U.S., according to an analysis by an independent energy research firm. The analysis of seismic activity by Rystad Energy … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3wrnYbn

Analysis: Gefion collapse highlights risks of unrated capacity

Niche brokers say they have no choice but to use unrated insurers as compliance experts call for a change of the "unfair" FSCS levy system after the scheme steps in to pay claims following Gefion's bankruptcy. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/2TsTqaK

Californians Warned to Prepare for Brutal Heatwave, Fire Risk

A heatwave already punishing parts of the U.S. Southwest on Monday was expected to move into California this week, prompting the forecasters to warn of health and fire dangers. A high-pressure ridge that built over southwestern deserts over the past … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/35m2rVF

Broker Verlingue Consolidates European Brand by Launching in Switzerland and Portugal

Verlingue, the Adelaïde Group’s insurance brokerage subsidiary, is consolidating its brand in Switzerland and Portugal. After the successful launch of the brand in the United Kingdom in December 2019, the broker’s Swiss and Portuguese subsidiaries now have officially adopted the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3pVuWTx

Gas Buildup at China Nuclear Plant Prompts Questions from Part Owner EDF

The French utility that partly owns a nuclear power plant near Hong Kong is seeking more information on a gas buildup in a reactor, even as its Chinese partner insists the facility is operating safely. Electricite de France SA, which … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3pUDHgM

Covid BI claims payments hit £765.8m

FCA figures show interim payments of £289.5m and final settlements of £467.2m since the Supreme Court verdict, with the number of policyholders waiting to hear whether their claim is valid going down to 9,152. from Insurer - insuranceage.co.uk https://ift.tt/35jlm3v

2 Louisiana Insurance Agents Fined, Suspended in Separate Actions

Two Louisiana insurance producers have been issued cease and desist orders, summary suspensions, fines and notices of license revocations, state insurance regulators said. The Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI) fraud division investigators served insurance agent Leslie Claire Trahan of Opelousas … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3iGmWVc

Heirs of Black Man Killed by Baton Rouge Police Accept $4.5M Settlement

The children of a Black man killed by police in Louisiana’s capital city five years ago have accepted a $4.5 million settlement from the local government, the man’s family and the city’s mayor said. Alton Sterling’s 2016 shooting by a … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xkDSVg

Parents of 3 Nebraska Girls Killed in Crash Sue Sarpy County

The families of three Gretna, Nebraska, girls who died in a crash in Sarpy County are suing the county, which they said did not correct a deficient design of the road where the girls died. The lawsuit also asks a … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2RSacQ3

Six Flags Park Settling Illinois Park Fingerprints Lawsuit for $36M

Six Flags Great America has settled a class-action lawsuit by agreeing to pay $36 million over the use of fingerprint scanners at its Illinois theme park. Pass holders and others who visited the Gurnee park between October 2013 and Dec. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3zqbpze

Tropical Depression Off North Carolina Could Become Tropical Storm

Tropical Depression Two has formed off the coast of North Carolina and is heading away from the United States, the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) said on Monday. The depression is expected to become a tropical storm by tonight, could … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gvYpzp

Northwestern North Dakota Blasted by Flash Floods, Hail, Strong Winds

Utility crews are working to restore power to hundreds of people in northwestern North Dakota and eastern Montana after a round of storms smacked the region with heavy rains, high winds and hail. The Bismarck Tribune reported the storm swept … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3xlPE1G

People Moves: HOAIC Hires Brookshire; Merchants Promotes Smith; Fanaroff Joins MIA

Homeowners of America Insurance Company Hires Brookshire in Virginia Homeowners of America Insurance Company (HOAIC), a property/casualty insurance provider, has hired Adam Brookshire as a territory sales manager in Virginia. Brookshire brings more than 10 years of insurance industry experience … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3vknWkh

Connecticut Utilities Appeal Penalties Over Tropical Storm Response

Connecticut’s two largest electricity distributors have appealed millions of dollars in profit reductions imposed by the state for what regulators called the companies’ failures in preparing for and responding to Tropical Storm Isaias, which caused hundreds of thousands of power … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3pV3ZzE

West Virginia Town Residents Say Coal Dust Is Taking Their Breath Away

EUNICE, W.Va. — Eunice should have been Becky Rectenwald’s place to settle. The dust settled there instead. Rectenwald, 58, moved to the former Raleigh County mining town from Marmet nearly four years ago for cleaner air and a larger yard … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2TZIkKt

New York Lawsuit Over Sexual Misconduct Reporting in Jails Settled

New York state officials have agreed to settle a lawsuit that accused the Erie County Sheriff’s Office of improperly responding to reports of sexual misconduct involving staff and inmates at the county jails, Attorney General Letitia James said Friday. The … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Swuy1H

Judge Tosses Suit Seeking End to Delaware River Drilling Ban

A federal judge on Friday threw out a lawsuit by Republican state lawmakers in Pennsylvania that sought to overturn a ban on gas drilling and hydraulic fracturing in the Delaware River basin, ruling they lacked standing to sue. Senate Republicans … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3vtxMk8

Georgia City Offers $350K to Settle Claim Over Police Takedown of Wrong Man

Officials of a Georgia city have offered a $350,000 legal settlement to a Black man injured last year when a police officer violently slammed him in the ground, later saying he mistakenly believed the man had an outstanding arrest warrant. … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3wrvfrG

Supreme Court to Weigh LinkedIn’s Use of Anti-Hacking Law to Shield Personal Data

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday gave Microsoft Corp.’s LinkedIn Corp. another chance to try to stop rival hiQ Labs Inc. from harvesting personal data from the professional networking platform’s public profiles – a practice that LinkedIn contends threatens the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3cF31Ce

NFP, Vault Introduce Exclusive Group Excess Liability Program

NFP and Vault have launched the NFP/Vault Group Excess Program to provide select, qualifying employers and wealth management organizations an opportunity to expand their scope of benefits and offerings and extend to their high net worth (HNW) executives and clients … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3iDOLNA

Acrisure Re Launches Cyber Reinsurance Division in Partnership with Kovrr

Reinsurance broker Acrisure Re has launched a London-based cyber division in partnership with cyber risk modeler Kovrr. Headed by Cyber Practice Leader Tom Quy, the new division will offer the market a fresh perspective on cyber reinsurance “by coupling the … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3iA27dU

U.S. Sending $1 Billion to Farmers Hit by Natural Disasters in 2018-2019

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will release more than $1 billion in payments over the next several weeks starting June 15 for agricultural producers who suffered losses in 2018 and 2019 natural disasters. The payments are going to farmers … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3pVBi5p

Hiscox’s Barriol to Liberty Specialty as Terrorism & Political Violence Underwriter; Howden MGA, DUAL, Adds Forestry with Hire of White Oak’s Steward

This wrap-up of international People Moves details recent appointments at Liberty Specialty Markets and underwriting agency DUAL, which is part of Howden Group Holdings. A summary of these new hires follows here. Liberty Specialty Markets (LSM), part of Liberty Mutual … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2U6HNXl

New OSHA Covid-19 Standard Covers Healthcare Employees Only

The Department of Labor has promulgated an emergency temporary standard (ETS) designed to protect healthcare workers but did not extend the rule to other high-risk employment such as manufacturing, grocery or high-volume retail as some labor groups had urged The … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3cBDKIU

Sri Lanka Seeks Interim Claim of $40M from Operator of Wrecked Cargo Ship

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – Sri Lanka is seeking an interim claim of $40 million from the operator of a fire-ravaged cargo ship to cover part of the cost of fighting the blaze, officials said Saturday. Sri Lanka’s attorney general has … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/3gttnIs

Federal Employees Allowed to Return to Offices Without Vaccinations

U.S. government employees should not be required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 before returning to their workplace or made to disclose their vaccination status, according to guidance released by the Biden administration on Thursday. Workers may voluntarily disclose this information … from News – Insurance Journal https://ift.tt/2Tr4ULR

Intact Financial, Tryg Agree to Sell Jointly Owned Danish Unit to Alm. Brand for US$1.3B