After 33 years in the industry, I’m always amazed about how excited I get to join my colleagues from around this great country, to go on the hill and share our story.  We have a wonderful industry that protects the financial future of millions of Americans and are the best resource for Congress that they can find.  Our NAHU staff have done an incredible job gaining credibility as an expert in the field and the attendee’s, going to the various offices on the hill, just put an exclamation mark on it.   

This year, the main issue was the cost of care and the pass through of agent compensation.  I know from the meetings that I attended, that our group was very effective in explaining the role and value that the licensed agent brings to they table and I truly believe that the staff we met with, now has a greater appreciation for the significance of our knowledge and experience.

It is also a great time to learn from colleagues in other states and share ideas and learn from each other.  Most everyone I chatted with agree that until we get a handle on life style-related claims, mandates and begin to get our economy back on track, the future doesn’t look too bright.  All of us know that a small fraction of the population drive the majority of the cost, which is difficult to explain sometimes.  This conference is one of those that stands out in my mind.  To have the Speaker of the House, come to our conference the day after the State of the Union address, tells me that NAHU is doing something right.  

I thoroughly enjoyed my time on the hill and pledge to continue reaching out to our elected officials to continue to share the issues that are most important to our wonderful clients.  I also hope we continue to encourage our clients to take action.  It is important to keep them involved in the process, as they are the ones on the front lines that pay the bill.

Rick Rebel