RE: IIAW Statement on Governor Walker's Insurance Exchange Decision

November 16, 2012                                                                                      Matt Banaszynski

                                                                                                                    608-256-4429

Statement by IIAW regarding Health Exchange Decision

Matt Banaszynski, Executive Vice President of the Independent Insurance Agents of Wisconsin (IIAW), the leading voice for independent insurance agents throughout Wisconsin, issued the following statement today in response to Governor Scott Walker's announcement that he would not seek to create a state-based health care exchange in Wisconsin:

"On behalf of the Independent Insurance Agents of Wisconsin, we respect Governor Walker's difficult decision not to pursue a state-based health exchange in Wisconsin at this time. We continue to have serious concerns with PPACA and the potential negative impact it could have on our profession in a federal exchange. One of our primary concerns is the creation of 'Navigators' that lack the essential insurance knowledge, skills, and licensing to adequately serve and protect the health insurance consumer. We remain steadfast in these concerns and strongly encourage Governor Walker and other state leaders to work toward protecting and preserving the role of the health insurance agent. The IIAW stands ready to work closely with the Governor, his administration, and all members of the State Legislature to ensure that health insurance agents throughout our state continue to play a vital role in our state's health care delivery system."