Dec. 9, 2025
Supporting Consumers Through Outreach: Amplifying Public Awareness of State Insurance Departments
Despite the critical role state departments of insurance (DOIs) play in protecting consumers, many residents remain unaware of the DOI services, protections, and resources available to them. Communication campaigns are more than just public relations; they are a strategic regulatory tool. They educate consumers and build trust in the insurance system, extending the reach of regulation beyond enforcement.
Consumer advocates, state insurance regulators, and commissioners all play a vital role in amplifying these outreach efforts. Whether through policy support, cross-agency collaboration, or community partnerships, these stakeholders can help ensure that DOI messaging is clear, accessible, and impactful. This session will first explore insights from a survey of public information officers (PIOs) and highlight communication best practices, challenges, and opportunities in DOI outreach and education. Panelists will share successful campaign strategies, discuss barriers to public engagement, and identify tools and resources that can help departments better connect with their communities, especially underserved or hard-to-reach populations. Attendees will leave with actionable ideas for strengthening public engagement and fostering cross-sector collaboration.
Panel Speakers:
Shamus Durac, Senior Attorney/Health Policy Analyst, Rhode Island Parent Information Network
Lori Croy ,Director of Communications, Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance
Moderator:
Melissa Jackson, Director of Communications, ÐÓ°ÉÊÓƵ
CIPR's special session is open to all registered ÐÓ°ÉÊÓƵ 2025 Fall National Meeting participants.
About the ÐÓ°ÉÊÓƵ
As part of our state-based system of insurance regulation in the United States, the ÐÓ°ÉÊÓƵ (ÐÓ°ÉÊÓƵ) provides expertise, data, and analysis for insurance commissioners to effectively regulate the industry and protect consumers. The U.S. standard-setting organization is governed by the chief insurance regulators from the 50 states, the District of Columbia and five U.S. territories. Through the ÐÓ°ÉÊÓƵ, state insurance regulators establish standards and best practices, conduct peer reviews, and coordinate regulatory oversight. ÐÓ°ÉÊÓƵ staff supports these efforts and represents the collective views of state regulators domestically and internationally.