December 2024 Newsletter

Leadership and Opportunities

The newsletter reintroduces the 2024–2025 NABIP-Dallas Board of Directors, led by President Jennifer Stanley. Members are invited to get more involved through open positions such as Vice President, Membership Co-Chair, Retention Chair, and Sponsorship Chair. These leadership and volunteer opportunities provide avenues for members to contribute to the chapter’s growth while helping drive events and advocacy efforts.

Upcoming Events

The new year begins with a free webinar on January 16, 2025, featuring Andy Neary of Major League Mindset. Titled The Insurance Agent Sales Playbook, this session will focus on overcoming post-COVID challenges in business growth, identifying ideal prospects, building compelling marketing messages, and establishing expert credibility. Neary’s keynote emphasizes mindset shifts that help agents stand out in a crowded industry.

On February 19, 2025, NABIP-Dallas hosts the Education Revolution Day at Vouv Dallas, offering up to five CE credits. Presentations will include Jason Dixon of Trinity Captive on segregated group medical stop loss, Commissioner Mulready of Oklahoma on NAIC updates and Insure OK, Neil McNeil delivering a three-hour NABIP-approved ethics course, and Jennifer Stanley of StanleyKup. A lunchtime demonstration by Healthee, the event’s sponsor, will round out the program. These events reinforce NABIP-Dallas’ commitment to equipping members with timely knowledge and professional development.

National Campaign: Brokers Making a Difference

In January, NABIP will launch a six-week social media campaign to highlight the essential role brokers play in protecting consumers, ensuring access to healthcare, and advocating for ethical practices. The campaign will showcase stories of how brokers serve individuals, families, seniors, and small businesses while combating misconceptions and celebrating professionalism. Members are encouraged to amplify the message by sharing campaign posts, tagging NABIP, and using hashtags such as #BrokersMakingADifference. The first week, beginning January 13, focuses on “Setting the Record Straight,” spotlighting how brokers safeguard consumer interests and provide trusted guidance in navigating the healthcare system.

Legislative and Demographic Updates

The newsletter highlights a significant population trend: Texas once again led the nation in population growth in 2024, adding over 560,000 new residents. This marks the 14th consecutive year the state has topped the growth charts, fueled by affordability, job opportunities, and international migration. Texas now has over 31 million residents, with more than half of the growth since 2023 coming from international arrivals. The report underscores how demographic shifts continue to shape the healthcare landscape, creating new opportunities and challenges for brokers and policymakers alike.

Advocacy and PAC Efforts

Members are reminded of the importance of supporting the NABIP-TX PAC, which plays a central role in backing legislative candidates committed to common-sense healthcare policy. Contributions can be made as either one-time or monthly donations, and additional sponsorship opportunities are available for NABIP-TX Day at the Capitol. By investing in advocacy, NABIP ensures that the voice of health insurance professionals remains influential in shaping state and national policy.

Washington Update

National advocacy continues to be a priority, with NABIP urging support for S.4137, the Improving Access to Medicare Coverage Act of 2024. The organization has joined efforts to delay the Federal Trade Commission’s noncompete rule, while lawmakers including Senators Wyden and Sanders are demanding answers on rising medical bills tied to Multiplan. Other highlights include the Biden administration’s decision to maintain Trump-era ICHRA rules, new legislation in Michigan addressing mental health, and upcoming education opportunities such as a Compliance Corner webinar on ERISA fiduciary responsibilities. Members can also tune into NABIP’s Healthcare Happy Hour podcast for timely insights and updates.

Resources and Member Benefits

The NABIP Resource Hub continues to provide valuable white papers, guides, and case studies from across the industry. The featured resource this month focuses on Section 105 Medical Reimbursement Plans, which can offer significant tax savings through Health Reimbursement Arrangements or Medical Expense Reimbursement Plans. Locally, NABIP-Dallas maintains a rhythm of monthly luncheons at Vouv Dallas on the third Wednesday (except in December), and new members are invited to attend their first luncheon at no cost. The Lone Star Virtual Chapter also provides ongoing free CE webinars, extending access to professional development for members across Texas.