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October 12, 2011
Dear LAHU Members:
I have created a Think Tank Exchange Committee that represents Agents from across the State. Our goal is to create a report on an Exchange that would best represent Louisiana's needs. We had our first meeting and NAHU lobbyist, Michael Keegan hosted and reviewed all aspects of the guidelines of PPACA, NAHU's views and a review of Utah, Massachutes and California's exchanges. This group will review exchanges in other States to increase our knowledge about what will work in Louisiana.
In a recent Industry Meeting with the Department of Insurance, Deputy Commissioner, Scott Kipper stated that Louisiana would create their own exchange and a regional exchange would not work in Louisiana. He introduced the DOI Implementation Team for PPACA and explained that there is a lot to do and not much is known now. As Rules and Regulations come from Washington, Louisiana will have a better idea on how to implement PPACA.
In the same meeting, Commissioner Donelon spoke about a recent Blue Cross program he attended, in that he realized that Agents and Brokers are only compensated on average 4%. He understands the importance of the role of the agent and did sign-on to a letter from the NAIC stating the fact.
I have spoke with Commissioner Donelon, Congressmen Cassidy, Scalise, Alexander, Fleming and Senator Vitter about the creation of the LAHU Think Tank on Exchanges and ask that they weigh in their thoughts during the process, which they all agreed.
By 1/1/2013, Louisiana will need to show progress in creating an exchange and by 1/1/2014, our exchange must be ready to go.
Upon completion of our report, it will be presented to Commissioner Donelon, the Governor's Office, our US Senator's and US Congressmen. My hope is that we are able to assist in the forming of the Louisiana Exchange and that we continue to be able to assist our clients and provide the best service available in the industry.
This is a huge project and I would like to thank those Agents that have agreed to assist in creating and finalizing this report.
For our members, I am asking for your support in recruiting new members and giving to our Political Action Committee's. I will need PAC Dollars, to make sure and get in front of these important decision makers.
The Fight is Far from Over!
Your dedicated and ready to fight, Lobbyist.
B. Ronnell Nolan, HIA
TheNolanGroup@aol.com
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