At the Local Leaders Summit in Cazenovia, our AVP of Government Relations, Travis Wattie, delivered an inspiring session on how advocacy powers the strength and future of the independent insurance industry. His message was clear: protecting our profession and reducing unnecessary barriers takes every one of us working together. Here’s how we’re making that happen.
Building Strength Through PAC Involvement
Why it matters: Every day, lawmakers propose policies that can directly impact how you serve clients. Without active engagement, independent agents risk being left out of critical conversations that shape our industry’s future.
What we’re doing: Travis and our Government Relations team are monitoring legislation, meeting with decision-makers, and strategically directing PAC resources to ensure your interests are represented in both Albany and Washington.
What you can do: Support IAPAC and InsurPAC. Even modest contributions build influence. By taking part, you help protect fair competition and ensure that independent agents’ perspectives remain at the forefront of policy discussions.
Small Contributions, Big Results
Why it matters: Travis reminded us that advocacy succeeds when everyone takes part. Whether you give a small amount, attend a local PAC event, or contribute through your dues, every action strengthens our collective impact. When hundreds of agents engage, lawmakers take notice.
What we’re doing: We’re simplifying the giving process, recognizing individual contributors, and celebrating local associations that lead by example. Travis is expanding tools that make supporting PAC efforts easy, accessible, and rewarding.
What you can do: Get involved in whatever way works best for you. Join the “Stack the Pack" event, participate in regional PAC events, or make a small-dollar contribution through your dues. Each step moves our advocacy forward and strengthens our shared voice.
Relationships That Move Legislation
Why it matters: Advocacy isn’t just about donations, it’s about relationships. When lawmakers understand who independent agents are and the value we bring to our communities, they become true partners in shaping better policy.
What we’re doing: Big I New York continues to build bridges between agents and elected officials. Travis regularly facilitates opportunities for members to meet legislators, share their experiences, and demonstrate the real-world impact of insurance on Main Street businesses.
What you can do: Show up and be heard. Attend advocacy events, join legislative visits, and talk to local representatives about how your work helps protect consumers and strengthen communities. Personal connections turn policy discussions into real progress.
Growing Future Industry Advocates
Why it matters: The next generation of professionals will define how our industry’s voice is heard. When younger agents understand the power of advocacy early, they help secure the strength and sustainability of the independent agency system for years to come.
What we’re doing: Travis and our Government Relations team are engaging with NextGen committees, visiting local associations, and creating opportunities for emerging leaders to connect directly with lawmakers. By linking advocacy to career development, we’re building a network of future industry champions.
What you can do: Encourage younger professionals in your agency to get involved. Invite them to advocacy events, connect them with local legislators, or involve them in campaigns like Stack the Pack. Their participation today builds leadership for tomorrow.
Turning Policy into Progress
Why it matters: Policy decisions, from consent-to-rate laws to consumer protection measures, affect how you serve your clients every day. Being part of the conversation helps ensure these policies make sense for both agents and consumers.
What we’re doing: Big I New York continues to be at the table for every major legislative issue. Travis and our advocacy team work closely with state and national leaders to remove unnecessary obstacles and advance practical solutions that let agents focus on what they do best: serving clients.
What you can do: Stay engaged. Read our advocacy updates, respond to action alerts, and share feedback on legislative issues that affect your business. When you lend your insight, you strengthen our ability to represent the entire independent agent community.
Together, We Make an Impact
Our advocacy efforts exist to make your work easier. Fewer hurdles, clearer regulations, and a stronger marketplace for independent agents to thrive.
Advocacy has been at the heart of Big I New York since our beginning. It’s how real change happens. Travis and our team continue that legacy by turning member voices into meaningful action. But lasting progress takes all of us. We invite you to share your ideas, get involved, and help shape the future of our industry together.