January 2026 Newsletter
Editor: Halee Johnson
Executive Summary
Key highlights include NABIP’s leadership at the NAIC Fall Meeting, where member-driven data directly shaped regulatory conversations around plan suppression, zero-commission strategies, and consumer access; ongoing Congressional battles over ACA subsidies with significant implications for premiums and market stability; and major legislative wins tied to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, including HSA modernization and protections for agents and small agencies.
Newsletter Summary
The January 2026 NABIP-Dallas Newsletter opens by celebrating community impact, including fundraising support for the North Texas Food Bank, setting the tone for a year grounded in service, advocacy, and leadership.
A central focus is NABIP’s strong presence at the NAIC Fall Meeting, where member experiences informed direct discussions with state insurance commissioners, CMS, and CCIIO. Issues such as plan suppression, zero-commission strategies, and disruptions to beneficiary access were elevated from frontline realities to regulatory priorities. Regulators responded with concrete actions, including supportive state bulletins and progress toward tools that improve transparency and consumer protection—validating NABIP’s role as a trusted policy voice.
At the federal level, the newsletter outlines a high-stakes fight over expired ACA premium subsidies, now driving premium increases and renewed debate in Congress. While the House is moving toward a multi-year extension, the Senate outlook remains uncertain, placing market stability and affordability at risk. NABIP continues to engage lawmakers and regulators to ensure that the agent and broker perspective remains central as these decisions unfold.
The issue also highlights significant advocacy wins from 2025, including provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that protect employer-sponsored coverage, modernize HSAs, extend tax relief for independent agents, and advance Medicare market reforms. These achievements are reinforced by strategic investments through the NABIP PAC, strengthening bipartisan relationships and long-term influence.
Beyond advocacy, the newsletter emphasizes member growth and participation. Featured opportunities include the Capitol Conference (February 22–24, 2026), the NABIP-TX Day at the Capitol, leadership award nominations, and expanded education through REBC® certification, CE events, and scholarship programs. Charitable initiatives like the Ken Martin Scholarship further reflect NABIP’s commitment to developing future leaders and giving back to the community.
Together, this issue reinforces a clear message: when NABIP members engage, policy changes. Through advocacy, education, and service, NABIP continues to strengthen the profession’s voice and impact nationwide.