CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

Published: 14-Oct-2010

The Independent Insurance Agents of Oklahoma (IIAO), the state’s largest insurance and property casualty agents association, has announced its endorsement of Insurance Commissioner Kim Holland for re-election.

Holland was appointed by Governor Henry to fill an unexpired term in 2005 and was elected to a full four-year term in 2006.

“Since Commissioner Holland took charge of the Oklahoma Insurance Department five years ago, she has made a huge impact by taking a state agency that was riddled with scandal and turning it into a professional public agency that provides consumer protection and regulatory excellence,” said Dan Ramsey, IIAO president and chief executive officer.

“Commissioner Holland is envied by her peers around the country for the job she has done and the citizens of Oklahoma can rest assure they have a public servant of the highest integrity serving in this important position.”

Ramsey said IIAO’s endorsement of Holland is based on her 25 years experience in the insurance industry and her vast understanding of consumer, industry, legislative and regulatory matters.

“Commissioner Holland has been a strong advocate for consumers as evidenced by her decision to file a lawsuit earlier this year with the Oklahoma Supreme Court that successfully challenged state legislation passed in 2010 that would have significantly increased health insurance premiums for every Oklahoman.

“She authored a letter in opposition to federal health insurance mandates that was read by Senator Tom Coburn on the Senate floor. Holland also initiated the first major investigation of its kind challenging the market conduct of a major insurance company selling Medicare products to Oklahoma seniors.”

Holland is secretary and treasurer of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners and if re-elected will become president in 2013.

The latest Sooner Poll of the race shows Holland narrowly trailing her Republican challenger, John Doak.