The 2020 Legislature Begins
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The 2020 Legislature Begins
As I write this article, the legislature opens tomorrow, January 7. Over 1,200 bills have been dropped, and there are some doozies. Why does the governor want to get rid of vehicle safety inspections if not to divert attention from the proposal to increase the gas tax? I can’t believe the number of health mandates that are being introduced as if individual and small business insurance isn’t expensive enough. Thankfully, it seems like everyone wants to have their name associated with the distracted driving proposal, so we might want to get it passed this year. And why does Sen. Chap Peterson want to reintroduce his bad faith bill when trial lawyers have told him that they will not support the proposal? It was funny when I opened my locker at the General Assembly building this morning, and there were flyers from last year opposing the bad faith bill. Guess I just need to change the bill number.
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: agents, YOU have to “Get into politics or get out of business.” That was a theme we used over 30 years ago at Associated Builders and Contractors, and it’s as relevant today as it ever has.
Sometimes, the legislative process is ugly, scary, enlightening and hopeful — all at the same time. We take the responsibility of lobbying and representing your interests at the General Assembly seriously, and therefore, both Joe Hudgins and I will be at the legislature virtually 24/7 until they adjourn. We’re visiting seasoned legislators (and for some asking, “Really??? Why did you introduce that?”), and we’re also educating new legislators on the importance of insurance and our industry for a successful economy.
We will be sending you updates on the legislature the first of each week. It’s very likely that we will be asking that you call your state senator or delegate on legislation this year, and we trust that you will take time out of your day to do so. It’s a quick call, but the legislators need to hear from their constituents.
If you need to reach me or Joe during the session, it’s best to email us at Rbradshaw@iiav.com or Jhudgins@iiav.com. We will respond to you. If you call, it’s likely we will either be in a legislators office or a committee hearing, but please do leave a message.
Make a New Year’s Resolution this year to be politically responsive. Let your legislators know how you feel. You voted them in, and you can vote them out.
Sincerely,
Robert N. Bradshaw, Jr., MAM
IIAV President & CEO
