American Association of Independent Claims Professionals (AAICP) Applauds Leadership of Congressman Stephen Fincher for Re-introduction of The CLAIM Act- H.R. 2156 in 113th Congress

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WASHINGTON, May 28, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Association of Independent Claims Professionals (AAICP), the leading organization representing the interests of independent claims professionals, applauds Congressman Stephen Fincher upon the re-introduction of the Claims Licensing Advancement for Interstate Matters Act (CLAIM Act) – H.R. 2156.

Independent claims adjusters currently face a patchwork system of inconsistent state regulations that can delay the prompt and qualified adjustment of disaster victim and other claimants' claims. The CLAIM Act advances uniformity, reciprocity, and consumer protections for claims adjusting across state lines. While recognizing and respecting state oversight of insurance matters, the CLAIM Act: (i) enables independent claims adjusters to handle claims more efficiently and effectively across state lines in an increasingly nationwide marketplace by spurring reciprocal licensing reforms; (ii) protects consumers by spurring states to adopt uniform licensing criteria and by creating incentives for adjusters to take a multistate exam proposed to be established by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC); and (iii) facilitates accelerated adjusting of claims related to natural or other disasters.

"We are delighted the CLAIM Act has been re-introduced," said Dave North, President and CEO of Sedgwick. "We applaud Representative Fincher's leadership on this important issue, and appreciate his introduction of the CLAIM Act," North said.

"The CLAIM Act will bring about important changes benefitting consumers, insurers, and adjusters," said Greg McKenna, Counsel and Compliance Manager of Gallagher Bassett Services, Inc. "We are very pleased that this important legislation is before the Congress, and look forward to having Congress assisting the public in ensuring access to timely and effective claims adjusting. The CLAIM Act will also help independent adjusters expand into multiple states, adding more jobs to our economy."

The CLAIM Act was introduced into the U.S. House of Representatives on May 23, and has been referred to the House Financial Services Committee for further consideration.

About AAICP:
The American Association of Independent Claims Professionals (AAICP) is the only national Association representing the interests of independent claims professionals. AAICP members employ thousands of claim specialists and other professionals across the country and handle millions of workers' compensation, disability, property and liability claims annually.