Declarations

Consumer Recoveries

“We are constantly working to streamline regulations, cut red tape and expand the banking and insurance markets, but when our licensees violate our laws and regulations, we take action and hold them accountable.”

—N.J. Department of Banking and Insurance Commissioner Ken Kobylowski on recoveries for consumers and health care providers. His department recovered more than $18 million from insurers in 2013.

Cyber, The Final Frontier

“Not surprisingly, transnational organized crime has tapped into this new criminal frontier.”

—A report by California Attorney General Kamala Harris says international criminal enterprises are increasingly focusing on California because of its wealth and innovation.

Going Up?

“I heard a ‘Boom!’ and when I got off the train, the train was all the way up the escalator.”

—Denise Adams, a passenger on an eight-car Chicago commuter train that plowed across a platform and scaled an escalator at the underground station derailment at O’Hare International Airport on March 24, injuring more than 30 people on board.

A Great Way

“These vehicles are a great way for the NAIC to highlight the benefits of state-based regulation and would show a true commitment to consumer education and assistance.”

—Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak intends to ask the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) to invest in Shared Emergency Response Vehicles (SERVEs) for education and disaster response, such as those used by insurance companies.

Cleaning Up

“The state’s goal is to clean up both the Dan River and to protect public health and the environment at the other Duke Energy facilities around the state, and we are pleased to announce that the EPA will join us as we address these important issues.”

—North Carolina Gov. Pat McCrory on the state’s intention to scuttle a proposed settlement that would have allowed Duke to resolve environmental violations by paying a $99,000 fine with no requirement that the $50 billion company clean up its pollution.