NAIC Accepts Applications for 2009 Program

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) is now accepting applications for its 2009 Consumer Liaison Program.

“Consumer representatives play a valuable role in helping us achieve our primary goals of consumer protection and education,” said NAIC President and Kansas Insurance Commissioner Sandy Praeger. “This program provides a structured way to integrate consumer viewpoints into our regulatory discussions — and we encourage anyone interested in making a difference to apply.”

Established in 1992, the Consumer Liaison Program promotes consumer representation and interaction with NAIC members by providing funding for qualified consumer representatives to participate in NAIC meetings. In order to qualify for funding, a candidate must:

• Commit to representing the consumer interest in insurance regulation;
• Represent a non-profit organization;
• Fully participate in NAIC national meetings and related conference calls;
• Demonstrate expertise and experience on insurance-related issues addressed by the NAIC;
• Be free of obligations or commitments to an industry that conflict with his/her responsibilities to represent consumer interests; and
• Require NAIC funding in order to fully participate in NAIC national meetings and conference calls.

In addition, consumer organizations that do not want or need to request funding may apply for an unfunded consumer representative position. The NAIC 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.

Application forms and required documentation for funded and unfunded representatives, along with additional information about the NAIC’s Consumer Liaison Program, are available at www.naic.org/consumer_participation.htm.

The application deadline is Dec. 31, 2008. All applicants are required to complete the application and attach the relevant requested documents. Applicants will be notified in early February 2009 regarding their selection as a funded or unfunded consumer representative.