Gerald J. LaValle Democrat Senate District 47 Occupation: Beaver County - State Senator Term Expires: 2008 Education: Geneva College, B.S. B.A., 1956; Westminster College, Masters in Education, 1971 Committees: • Appropriations, Minority Chair • Community & Economic Development, Minority Chair • Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure • Education • Law & Justice • Transportation Personal History: Married to Darla J. Contact Information: Senate Box 203047 Harrisburg, PA 17120 Room: 458 Capitol Bldg. (717) 787-3076 D.O. Address: 488 Adams St. Rochester, PA 15074 E-Mail: lavalle@pasenate.com

Insurance Reforms Needed to Protect Families Sen. Gerald LaValle By: Senator Gerald J. LaValle (D-Beaver, Lawrence) This week I introduced legislation that would level the playing field between Pennsylvania consumers and the insurance industry. Pennsylvania families need to have someone in their corner taking on the insurance industry.  That's why I'm putting forward legislation that would make sure the insurance industry's top regulator is directly accountable to the voters. SB633 would amend the state's constitution to allow Pennsylvania voters to elect an insurance commissioner. This statewide election would be held in the same cycle as the election for Auditor General and Treasurer. Presently, the governor appoints the insurance commissioner, and the state Senate confirms the nominee. The insurance commissioner has the authority to review and approve rates, file lawsuits on behalf of policyholders, and regulate the insurance industry. Under my legislation, insurance companies and their officers and directors would be prohibited from contributing to candidates running for commissioner. In addition, an elected commissioner would be barred from working for the insurance industry for four years prior to serving and four years after their term. The following states currently elect an insurance commissioner: California, Delaware, Georgia, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, and Washington. Also, a state that formerly had an elected insurance commissioner &emdash; Florida &endash; is considering a return to its old system. This is the third legislative session that we have introduced this bill.  We're hoping that, given the reform sentiment percolating in Harrisburg, my colleagues will give this legislation a fresh look. I think it's an important way we can empower the people of Pennsylvania. I am also sponsoring a bill that would slash insurance rates for good drivers. SB634 would require auto insurers to provide at least a 20 percent discount to policyholders with a clean driving record. Eligible drivers would have the following: Three years as a licensed driver No more than one accident resulting in over $500 in damages in the previous three years No accidents resulting in death or injury in the previous three years No drunk-driving convictions in the previous seven years. ### CapNews Guest Speaker: Archives Back to CapNews