Bland Award Given to Safeway’s Zachry

The Risk and Insurance Management Society Inc. (RIMS) has named William Zachry, vice president – Workers Compensation, of Safeway Inc., as the recipient of the 2005 Richard W. Bland Memorial Award. Zachry received his award Monday at RIMS’ Annual Membership Meeting in Philadelphia.

The Bland Award is presented to a RIMS deputy member who has made a significant contribution in the area of legislation or regulation related to risk and insurance.

Zachry’s efforts have reportedly been instrumental in RIMS’ campaign for workers’ compensation reform in California.

One of Safeway’s growers, with Zachry’s involvement, became a primary contributor and collector of signatures for a voter’s initiative which would mandate changes to California Workers’ Compensation Law. The result of his work, in addition to the work of many others, culminated in the successful passage of California Senate Bill 899. This bill significantly overhauled workers’ comp in California. It provides for immediate treatment of injured workers while alleviating the factors that led to excessive cost on employers.

This national award is given in honor of Kansas City’s own Richard Bland. Bland was a charter member of the American Society of Insurance Managers, and actively worked with its legislative committee, speaking on behalf of measures that protect corporate insurance consumers.

Zachry is a member of RIMS’ Golden Gate Chapter.