Foreword

In Governor Cuomo’s State of the State Address and Executive Budget, the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of New York (IIABNY) found “there were no clear surprises in his proposed spending plan for 2016-2017” and noted that several insurance-related issues found their way into the rather lengthy document, notably a proposal that would expand the use of “wrap-up” programs long opposed by the “Big I” and other associations. The expansion seems linked to the many infrastructure projects proposed by the Governor. According to the Association’s Memo to members, there are workers’ compensation insurance proposals that include provisions dealing with assessments on self-insured employers. Insurance agencies will be affected by plans for small business tax cuts and requirements for employers to provide paid family leave. IIABNY is conducting an in-depth review of the very lengthy budget proposal. …The Professional Insurance Agents of New York (PIANY) is calling for nominations for its 2016 Distinction of Professionalism Awards “to honor insurance professionals who exemplify the qualities and actions that serve as a model of excellence in the insurance industry and for the independent agency system.” This aspect of agency life has always been a hallmark of service and image making and PIANY is right to honor leaders in this area. Awards, due July 15th, include nominations for:
• Professional Agent of the Year: PIANY presents this award to an agent who demonstrates excellence and achievement in insurance marketing and service; exhibits a personal commitment to professionalism; and contributes to their association and the local community.
• Distinguished Insurance Service: This award is presented to an individual who has established a history of service to the American agency system and/or PIA.
• Community Service Award: This distinction is bestowed upon the agent who took on a leadership role in a significant activity for the betterment of the community and its individuals.

If you know a deserving candidate, download a nomination form by going to www.pia.org/NY/. …Speaking of exponents of industry care and leadership, we lost a friend to the industry recently. Kurt Bingeman, 66, past president of the National Association of Professional Surplus Lines Offices Ltd., died recently at his home in Buffalo. Kurt was a majority owner and chairman and CEO of Buffalo, New York-based wholesaler Russell Bond & Co. Inc. with whom he began his career in 1972. He purchased the firm in 1983. He was also a partner in Chevy Chase, Maryland-based Access Funding L.L.C., which offers insurance premium financing through insurance brokers. Kurt was a fixture at agent and broker events for many years and was a proud sponsor and contributor to the many Associations and agents he collaborated with. “Kurt’s commitment to our industry and NAPSLO was invaluable, and he will be greatly missed as a dedicated professional and exceptional volunteer to the NAPSLO’s efforts for many, many years,” NAPSLO Executive Director Brady Kelley said.   Memorial donations may be made in Mr. Bingeman’s name to Canisius College, in care of
Russell Bond & Co. Inc., 866 Ellicott Square Building, 295 Main St., Buffalo, NY 14203.