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balbright@iiabl.com (225) 236-1357

IIABL STAFF

Benjamin Albright

Karen Kuylen

Director of Insurance Programs jnewchurch@iiabl com (225) 236-1350

Director of Accounting & Finance kkuylen@iiabl.com (225) 236-1353

Jamie Newchurch

Director of Communications & Events koregan@iiabl.com (225) 236-1360

Kathleen O'Regan

Karson Kyle

E&O Administrator lyra.roberts@iiaba.net (225) 236-1352

Communications & Events Administrator kkyle@iiabl.com (225) 236-1351

Lyra Roberts

BEN ALBRIGHT

CEO & PRESIDENT IIABL

FROMTHECAPITOL

As we move through this year’s legislative session, I want to take a moment to give you a clear, on-the-ground perspective from the Capitol on what we’re seeing—and more importantly, what IIABL is doing on your behalf. First and foremost, IIABL is working hard every day to protect independent agents across Louisiana. Our team is actively engaging with legislators, monitoring bills, shaping policy, and ensuring that our member agents and their customers are protected, at the Capitol.

A Noticeably Quieter Session

Compared to the past five legislative sessions, this one feels markedly quieter Following the devastating hurricane seasons of 2020 and 2021, insurance dominated the legislative agenda for years This session, however, things have settled down, significantly

That’s not by accident it’s a reflection of the heavy lifting that’s already been done But while the volume may be lower, the stakes remain just as high Even a “quiet” session can produce legislation with major implications for agents if left unchecked

Legal Reform: A Long-Term Fight

One of the most important issues facing our industry remains legal system abuse reform, but Legislative leadership and the Governor have made it clear that sweeping reforms in this area are unlikely to pass this year. None of the key bills in that space have been heard, so far, but optimism for their passage is low. That said, IIABL is not backing down.

We are continuing to work closely with a broad business coalition to push for meaningful reform. While this session may not deliver immediate victories on that front, we are actively building the political pressure necessary to get this done. This is a long-term effort, and we are laying the groundwork now for future success.

ADVOCACY

Early Wins for Agents

On other issues, the session is already off to a strong start for IIABL. We have been extremely successful in our lobbying efforts so far—particularly in amending multiple pieces of legislation to protect agents from increased litigation and other unintended consequences. These behind-the-scenes victories are exactly why your association’s presence at the Capitol matters. In many cases, the best outcome isn’t passing a new law—it’s preventing or fixing a bad one before it impacts your business. That’s exactly what we’re doing.

Strengthening Our Political Voice

Looking ahead, one of our biggest priorities this year is strengthening IIABL PAC. Louisiana’s campaign finance laws create a significant opportunity: “Big PACs” with enough individual contributors can make larger contributions to candidates. That means more influence in the elections that shape our legislative and regulatory environment. With critical elections coming next year—including legislative seats, the governor, and other key races—it is essential that we are positioned to compete. That’s why we are asking individual agents to consider making a PAC contribution of $50 or more. Growing our base of contributors isn’t just about fundraising—it’s about ensuring that independent agents have a strong, credible voice in the political process when it matters most.

Moving Forward

While this session may be quieter on the surface, IIABL is fully engaged and delivering results where it counts. We are protecting agents today, while also laying the groundwork for the larger policy wins we need tomorrow. As always, I appreciate your support and your trust. We’ll keep fighting for you at the Capitol.

KAREN KUYLEN

DIRECTOR OF ACCOUNTING

33 YEARS

This year, IIABL is proud to celebrate an incredible milestone, 33 years of service from our Director of Accounting & Finance, Karen Kuylen!

For more than three decades, Karen has been a trusted and steady presence within our organization. Her work has played a vital role in supporting the financial foundation of IIABL, helping ensure that our programs, events, and member services continue to run smoothly.

Known for her consistency, attention to detail, and unwavering commitment, Karen represents the kind of dedication that strengthens an organization from the inside out. While her work often happens behind the scenes, its impact is felt across every part of IIABL.

Throughout her 33 years, Karen has witnessed the growth and evolution of the association, contributing to its continued success every step of the way.

We are incredibly grateful for her years of service, her professionalism, and the care she brings to her role each day.

Congratulations on 33 years, and thank you for everything you do for IIABL!

30-DAY NOTICE OF NONRENEWAL AND CANCELLATION FOR SURPLUS LINES

BEN ALBRIGHT CEO & PRESIDENT IIABL

When we talk about our government affairs work, many people understandably jump to IIABL’s lobbying efforts at the legislature, on behalf of agents. However, another significant component of those efforts are found further down 3rd street, in Baton Rouge, at the Department of Insurance.

This work is often quieter, involving less grass roots advocacy and seeing fewer articles printed in the paper, but it can have a dramatic effect on agents’ day-to-day operations.

The fight over Notice of Cancellation/Non-Renewal

Recently, IIABL sprung into action on behalf of our members when LDI rescinded 2 advisory letters. This change flew largely under the radar in the broader market, but it essentially left agents and policyholders completely unprotected: it repealed guidance which clearly stated that surplus lines companies were subject to the Insurance Code’s notice of non-renewal and cancellation provisions

A surplus lines insurer could cancel a policy effective immediately, providing no time for an agent to secure a replacement policy, creating an instant lapse in coverage for the insured

IIABL immediately started working with LDI to protect agents and their insureds Ultimately, several of IIABL’s volunteer leaders and I met with Commissioner Temple, members of his staff, and representatives of the surplus lines industry to hash out an agreement that could satisfy everyone

The solution

Ultimately, this meeting led to the publication of Advisory Letter 2026-01, a critical piece of regulatory guidance. The new advisory letter once again clarifies that surplus lines insurers must provide 30-day notice of non-renewal or cancellation on both personal lines and commercial policies.

If a surplus lines insurer fails to provide sufficient notice, agents should provide a copy of the advisory letter. If they still stand by their action, please reach out to me directly and/or submit a complaint to LDI. All insurers, including surplus lines, MUST provide sufficient notice of non-renewal or cancellation.

Ensuring that agents have sufficient time to remarket an account is an important protection for both our members and their policyholders. I’m proud of the government affairs work we did to re-enshrine that protection, and I hope it shows the value of a strong association working for you.

If you have any questions about this or the rest of our government affairs work, or if you want to suggest reforms to statutes or regulations that would benefit agents and their policyholders, please contact me.

Ben Albright BAlbright@IIABL.com

(225) 615-0020

CHARTING THE COURSE

Jason stood at his desk staring at a renewal list, coffee in hand, wondering how he got here.

Not in a bad way. His agency was doing fine. Clients were loyal. Revenue was steady. But something felt off. The industry was shifting faster than ever. Regulations were evolving. Carriers were tightening. And every conversation seemed to come back to the same question.

What is next?

Jason realized he was not alone. Most independent agents are navigating the same waters. They are working hard, staying busy, but searching for clarity in a changing landscape.

So, he made a decision.

He would stop drifting and start charting his course.

That decision led him to the IIABL Annual Convention.

The First Step: Finding Direction

On Monday morning, Jason took his seat at the Opening Business Session. The room filled with familiar faces and new connections, all there for the same reason. To move forward.

The energy shifted quickly as keynote speaker Eric Bailey took the stage. His message focused on mindset, communication, and leadership. Jason was reminded that success is not just about what you do. It is about how you show up.

The tone was set. This was not going to be just another conference.

He stayed for updates from Commissioner Tim Temple, gaining insight into the regulatory environment shaping Louisiana agencies, and from National Chairman Elect Greg Sandrock, who brought a national perspective on where the independent agency system is headed.

For the first time in a while, Jason felt like he could see beyond his desk.

CHARTING

Sharpening the Tools

Over the next two days, Jason did something he had been putting off. He invested in himself.

With 6 more hours of continuing education available, including 3 hours of required ethics, he knocked out what he needed while actually learning something useful along the way. These were not check the box sessions. They were practical, relevant, and immediately applicable to his agency.

Between sessions, conversations happened naturally. In hallways. Over coffee. During the extended exhibit hall reception, a new format designed to give attendees more time to connect without feeling rushed.

This was not the typical experience. These were real conversations with the companies he works with every day. Brokers, carriers, and service providers. All in a relaxed setting that made it easier to build relationships that actually matter.

Moments That Matter

As the sun began to set Monday evening, Jason found himself at the Sunset Installation Reception. There were no long speeches or drawn out presentations. Just a meaningful moment to recognize leadership, celebrate the past year, and look ahead with optimism. All with a drink in hand and the Gulf as a backdrop. It was simple. It was intentional. And it worked.

CHARTING

The next day brought a different kind of energy. The Beach Tailgate and games, sponsored by the Young Agents, created a casual, come and go atmosphere where business conversations blended with laughter, families, and a little friendly competition.

Later that night, Jason tried his luck at Casino Night, one of the most talked about events of the week. But what stood out most was not the events. It was the people. The shared experiences. The conversations that would never happen in an office or over email.

A Better Way to Close

On Wednesday morning, instead of rushing through a final session, Jason sat down at the Awards Breakfast and Door Prize Giveaway. It was relaxed. It was fun. It was a chance to celebrate peers and wrap up the week on a high note before heading home. No pressure. Just appreciation

. The Return Home

Driving back, Jason realized something had shifted. He still had the same agency. The same clients. The same challenges. But now, he had clarity. He had ideas, connections, and a plan. He was no longer reacting. He was leading.

Your Course Starts Here

Every agent reaches a point where they have to decide. Keep going as is, or take the time to step away, refocus, and move forward with purpose. The IIABL Annual Convention is not just an event. It is a turning point. Your opportunity to learn what matters, connect in ways that last, and return with a renewed vision for your agency.

The question is simple. Are you ready to chart your course?

R i t t d d j i J 14 t 17 t th Hilt n Sandestin.

EVERY STEP OF THE WAY

Step by step, shot by shot, decision by decision. Behind every successful agent is a workers’ compensation partner they can trust completely.

MEMBERSHIP

THE VOICE FOR INDEPENDENT AGENTS

INFLUENCE INSURANCE LEGI REGULATORY POLICY THROU CONSISTENT PRESENCE AT TH

CONNECT WITH AGENCY LEADERS, CARRIERS, AND INDUSTRY PARTNERS SHAPING LOUISIANA’S INSURANCE LANDSCAPE.

ACCESS EXCLUSIVE EDUCATION, MARKET ACCESS OPPORTUNITIES, AND MEMBER-ONLY RESOURCES DESIGNED FOR REAL AGENCY NEEDS.

FOR DECADES, IIABL HAS BEEN THE TRUSTED VOICE OF INDEPENDENT AGENTS ADVOCATING, EDUCATING, AND STRENGTHENING AGENCIES ACROSS LOUISIANA.

TOGETHER, WE PROTECT OUR PROFESSION AND POSITION IT FOR THE FUTURE.

IIABL Agent-Legislator Agent-Legislator ExchangeSeries ExchangeSeries

CONNECTIONS BEFORE THE CAPITOL

The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of Louisiana (IIABL) recently completed its first-ever Agent–Legislator Exchange Series, a four-day statewide tour designed to strengthen relationships between independent insurance agents and local legislators ahead of the upcoming legislative session. Traveling to seven cities in just four days, the series created valuable opportunities for connection, conversation, and collaboration across Louisiana.

The tour included stops in Lafayette, Lake Charles, Shreveport, Monroe, Alexandria, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans, where agents and legislators gathered over breakfast and lunch meetings in each region. These settings allowed for more personal and meaningful interactions, giving attendees the chance to engage in open dialogue and begin building strong working relationships within their local communities.

This initiative comes at a critical time for Louisiana’s insurance industry, where clear communication and mutual understanding between agents and policymakers are essential. By meeting face-to-face before the legislative session begins, agents were able to share real-world insights from the communities they serve, while legislators gained a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the independent agency system.

Just as importantly, the Exchange Series helped create a level of comfort and familiarity that will carry forward into conversations at the Capitol. Establishing these relationships early allows for more productive discussions, stronger collaboration, and a more unified approach to addressing industry issues during the legislative session.

The success of this inaugural tour marks a significant step forward in IIABL’s advocacy efforts. With stronger connections now in place across the state, members are better positioned to engage with legislators and work toward meaningful progress for the independent insurance industry in Louisiana.