5 Issues Independent Agents Will Address at the 2026 Big ‘I’ Legislative Conference
Get up to speed on the five key issues that will be the focus of the 2026 Big “I” Legislative Conference taking place April 22–24 in Washington, D.C.
Flood
Brief Government Shutdown Ends as NFIP Reauthorized
Congress ended the brief four-day partial federal government and reauthorized the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) through Sept. 30.
NFIP Lapse Possible as Congress Finalizes Government Funding
As of press time, Congress is working to finalize legislation to keep the federal government open beyond Friday, when current funding expires.
Over 800,000 Without Power as Deadly Cold Grips the Country
The deadly winter storm that swept across the U.S. over the weekend has left at least 12 people dead and thousands of people stranded, with over 19,000 flights canceled during the storm.
Top 5 Most-Read Articles in Independent Agent in December
December looked at the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season, the impact of claims management on customer experience, state requirements for paid leave and time off. Plus, state regulations on artificial intelligence (AI) as well as a review of 2025’s top stories.
2025 Hurricane Season: Storms Steer Clear of US but Undergo ‘Rapid Intensification’
While storms may not make landfall in the U.S., they are becoming increasingly unpredictable and intensify rapidly, warns the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Declaration of Independents: Kelley Carter
Communication is the name of the game in the challenging coastal insurance market—and Kelley Carter, a communication and business major, has applied that wholeheartedly.
Government Shutdown Ends as NFIP Retroactively Reauthorized
The continuing resolution (CR) funds the federal government through Jan. 30, 2026, and includes a retroactive reauthorization of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for the period that the program lapsed.
Funding Standoff: Government Shutdown Continues
Both political sides seem to be digging in, with the U.S. Senate unable to advance a “clean” continuing resolution (CR).
Descartes Launches Highly Responsive Parametric Flood‑at‑Location Product
The product covers any economic losses resulting from fluvial, pluvial and coastal flooding, and offers rapid payouts triggered by pre‑set conditions.
