������̳

Today, the ������̳ (������̳) announced it is preparing for its 2025 Consumer Participation Program by opening application dates for the program. Applications are being accepted now through Oct. 31, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. CT.

The ������̳ selects a group of consumer representatives annually from a list of qualified applicants. Amplifying the voice of insurance consumers and participating in ������̳ meetings as individuals or as consumer representatives of consumer organizations are among the duties of the representatives. (The ������̳ defines a consumer organization as a national, state, or local organization that serves to protect the interests of consumers as they relate to the regulation of insurance.)

“Next year marks 33 years since the Consumer Participation Program was established. Through the program, consumer representatives support the mission of the ������̳ by providing insight into the needs of insurance consumers. The insurance industry is complex, and every opportunity our consumers have to be heard is important,” said ������̳ President and Connecticut Department of Insurance Commissioner Andrew N. Mais.

There are two ways to apply to the Consumer Participation Program:

• Funded Consumer Representative: The ������̳ will provide funding in the form of travel expense reimbursement. To qualify, an individual candidate shall have a commitment to representing consumer interests in insurance regulation, be willing to fully participate in ������̳ national meetings and related conference calls, have demonstrated expertise and experience on insurance-related issues addressed by the ������̳, and require ������̳ funding in order to fully participate in ������̳ national meetings and conference calls. An individual candidate must not have obligations or commitments to an industry that conflict with his/her responsibilities to represent consumer interests.

• Unfunded Consumer Representative: Individuals who do not need funding may apply to participate as unfunded consumer representatives.

All applicants are required to complete the new automated application and attach all requested documents. Applicants will be selected in December and notified prior to the Spring National Meeting in 2025.

“We welcome applicants who meet the criteria of an ������̳ Consumer Representative to apply by the Oct. 31 deadline. As the chair of the ������̳’s Consumer Liaison Committee, it is important that everyday people have a voice in our work. I appreciate the commitment representatives have and look forward to working together to highlight accomplishments and work that needs to be done to meet the expectations of consumers,” said Chair and Minnesota Commerce Commissioner Grace Arnold, whose agency includes the Division of Insurance.

The provides additional information about the ������̳’s Consumer Participation Program and describes the application process to be appointed as either a funded or unfunded consumer representative.