AB 69 could have changed the way FAIR Plan policyholders are solicited through clearinghouse programs, with serious implications for agents, brokers, and the consumers who depend on their guidance.
Thanks to the advocacy efforts of American Agents Alliance members and the broader insurance community, the amended bill now includes important protections for the agent and broker relationship.
This AB 69 advocacy win is an important reminder of what can happen when agents and brokers speak up together. Read more about what changed, why it matters, and how your advocacy helped protect the role of insurance professionals in serving California consumers.
Protecting Agents and Brokers
One of the most important changes in the amended bill preserves the role of the agent or broker of record.
Under the revised language, if there is an agent or broker of record listed on a FAIR Plan policy, a clearinghouse-participating insurer must make any offer simultaneously to both the FAIR Plan policyholder and the agent or broker of record.
That matters. It helps ensure agents and brokers are not cut out of the transaction and that consumers continue to have access to the trusted insurance professional who understands their coverage needs.
Why AB 69 Matters for Consumers
Agents and brokers do more than place policies. They help consumers understand risk, compare coverage options, and avoid gaps that could leave families and businesses underinsured.
The amended version of AB 69 recognizes that role. The bill includes notice language directing policyholders to contact their broker and ask for help finding the most suitable available insurance options. It also requires agents and brokers transacting basic property insurance to provide information on the FAIR Plan clearinghouse programs.
That is a meaningful protection for both consumers and the professionals who serve them.
More Time for the Industry to Prepare
The amended bill also delays implementation of the clearinghouse information-sharing and offer provisions until January 1, 2028.
This gives the insurance industry more time to prepare while preserving key protections for the agent and broker of record once those provisions take effect.
Your Advocacy Made the Difference
This AB 69 advocacy win did not happen by accident.
It happened because American Agents Alliance members, agents, brokers, and industry advocates rallied around a shared concern. Your calls, messages, engagement, and support helped ensure policymakers understood what was at stake.
AB 69 is now in a much stronger position because of that advocacy.
This Win Is Yours
To every member who spoke up, shared concerns, supported the Alliance, or helped amplify this issue: thank you.
American Agents Alliance is proud to advocate on behalf of independent agents and brokers in California and beyond. Victories like this show the power of a strong, united industry voice.
If you are not yet a member of American Agents Alliance, now is the time to join. Add your voice to the advocacy work protecting agents, brokers, consumers, and the future of the independent insurance marketplace.
