California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara has made several appointments to the California Department of Insurance’s governing boards to support its mission of protecting consumers and businesses in the state, according to a July 16 announcement.
Newly appointed members include Andrea Hecht and Jim Taylor on the California Insurance Guarantee Association (CIGA) Board, along with Don Hofer on the California Workers' Compensation Insurance Rating Bureau (WCIRB) Governing Committee. Reappointed members include Nona Tirre to the California Automobile Assigned Risk Plan (CAARP) Advisory Committee and others to various advisory boards and committees.
CAARP was created to offer auto insurance to those who cannot find coverage in the private market, including low-income good drivers through the California Low Cost Auto Program. The CIGA Board ensures operations protect policyholders in cases of insurance company insolvency. COIN aims to guide insurers in making responsible investments that benefit both the environment and underserved communities.
The Curriculum Board manages educational standards for agents and brokers to maintain professional standards, while the Insurance Diversity Task Force advises on increasing access and inclusion for diverse business owners in the insurance sector. The WCIRB Governing Committee oversees policy matters related to workers' compensation insurance rates, classifications, and rules, serving all workers' compensation companies in California, which are mandated to be members.
“I am pleased to announce these appointments,” Lara said in a press release. “I have every confidence that these new and returning members will act in the best interest of all Californians. The leadership, expertise, and diverse perspectives of these appointees are critical to driving my department’s priority to protect consumers and ensure a robust insurance marketplace in California.”