The National Association of Professional Insurance Agents (PIA) has awarded US Rep. Scott Fitzgerald (R-Wis.) with the 2024 PIA Legislator of the Year Award.
Fitzgerald accepted the honor during PIA’s Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill, where he was recognized for his efforts to defend state-based insurance regulation and limit the power of the Federal Insurance Office (FIO).
As a member of the House Financial Services Committee, Fitzgerald has played a key role in shaping insurance-related policies, particularly through his introduction of the Insurance Data Protection Act, which seeks to repeal the FIO’s subpoena authority.
PIA has expressed strong support for the bill, advocating for the preservation of state-level regulation of the insurance industry.
Jon Gentile, PIA’s chief advocacy officer, noted Fitzgerald’s commitment to curbing the reach of the FIO.
“He introduced the Insurance Data Protection Act, a measure PIA strongly supports, which would repeal the office’s subpoena authority,” Gentile said.
PIA says that it has consistently backed the state insurance regulatory framework, which it views as more effective than federal oversight due to the ability of state regulators to respond to the specific needs of their local communities.
In addition to recognizing Fitzgerald, PIA earlier honored Jennifer DeGeorge of Vizance Insurance as the 2024 PIA National Customer Service Representative (CSR) of the Year. DeGeorge, a certified insurance counselor, received the award in May for her outstanding contributions to the operations of her agency.
The award acknowledges a CSR who has made a significant impact within a PIA member insurance agency, improving efficiency and enhancing client services.
PIA president Rich Savino praised Fitzgerald’s leadership on key issues affecting the insurance industry, including his efforts to reform the FIO, which are highly valued by independent agents nationwide.
Founded in 1931, PIA is a national trade association representing insurance agents and their employees who provide a variety of insurance products, specializing in coverage for automobiles, homes, and businesses.
The association continues to advocate for policies that support the state-based regulatory system and the role of independent insurance agents across the country.
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