Speaker Lineup, Issues Briefing Released for 2026 Big ‘I’ Legislative Conference

• By: Teddie Norton Reilly
• April 16, 2026

Next week, independent insurance agents from across the country will attend the 2026 Big “I” Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C. As it does every year, the Big “I” event will feature a star-studded cast of guest speakers at events throughout the week. 

​In anticipation of the event, the Big “I” government affairs team recorded a virtual issues briefing and a podcast outlining the top issues that will be the focus of this year’s conference.

In addition, attendees can prepare for meetings on Capitol Hill by downloading the issues briefing documents and exploring the issues that independent insurance agents will be discussing with lawmakers, including legal reform, disaster mitigation, flood insurance, terrorism risk insurance and more.

The legislative conference will kick off on Wednesday, April 22, with the Emerging Leaders Luncheon. The luncheon will feature a dynamic panel of emerging and established industry and Big “I” leaders—including prominent women in the independent agency system.

During the panel, they will share how to build confidence, lead with purpose and be an effective advocate. The group will give practical insights on leadership, influence and impact on Capitol Hill.

Later that evening, Rep. Jason Smith (R-Missouri), who chairs the House Ways and Means Committee, will participate in a fireside chat at a smaller event for large agents, brokers and carrier executives.

Last year, Rep. Smith led the charge to enact major tax legislation, which included making the 199A 20% deduction provision permanent. Approximately 86% of Big “I” agencies are organized as pass-through entities, according to the 2024 Agency Universe Study, and have been able to take full advantage of the provision.

On Thursday, April 23, House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minnesota) and Rep. Juan Vargas (D-California) will deliver keynote addresses at the Big “I” Legislative Breakfast.

Rep. Emmer is the number three Republican in House leadership and previously chaired the National Republican Congressional Committee. Rep. Vargas is a former insurance company executive and senior member of the House Financial Services Committee.

On Friday, April 24, Nathan Riedel, Big “I” senior vice president of federal affairs, will host a fireside chat with State Rep. Michael “Sarge” Pollock of Kentucky and Jennifer Winkler, candidate for the Florida House. They will discuss their experiences at the inaugural Insurance Campaign Institute, which will be held before the Legislative Conference, and share their overall journeys from independent agents to political candidates for elected office.

Attendees will hear from other legislators throughout the week, including House Financial Services Committee Chair French Hill (R-Arkansas). Rep. Hill is a long-time supporter of the state-based insurance regulatory system, and his committee has primary jurisdiction over the industry.

Online registration for the event is now closed, but you can still register in person at the event site.

Teddie Norton Reilly is Big “I” chief of staff.