The new Office of Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight has been tasked with helping to implement the federal healthcare law. This year, the office will work on rules to define “unreasonable” premium hikes, develop insurance plans for people with preexisting conditions, and oversee insurer compliance with consumer protections. Heading the office are four longtime industry watchdogs: Jay Angoff, former Missouri insurance commissioner, who will serve as director; Steve Larsen, former Maryland insurance commissioner; Karen Pollitz, former Georgetown University professor; and Richard Popper, who has led Maryland’s high-risk pool since 2002.

Watchdogs Suggest More Insurer Scrutiny (Washington Post 6/1/10)

June 3, 2010