FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 14, 2026

Press Contact: Kelly Loussedes, SVP of Public Relations
202.595.3074

Washington, D.C. — The National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals (NABIP) strongly opposes a
potential Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) moratorium on new agent and broker registrations for the
Plan Year 2027 Health Insurance Marketplace. While NABIP fully supports efforts to prevent fraud and unauthorized
enrollments, a blanket moratorium is the wrong approach. Fraud should be stopped at its source, not by restricting
legitimate, licensed professionals from helping consumers access and navigate their health coverage.

Fraudulent and unauthorized enrollments harm consumers, legitimate insurance professionals and the integrity of the
Marketplace. NABIP believes the appropriate response is to target the individuals and entities responsible for fraudulent
activity and strengthen the technology and safeguards needed to prevent it.

“A blanket moratorium on new agent and broker registrations would punish legitimate professionals instead of targeting
the bad actors responsible for fraud,” said NABIP President Mychal Walker. “Consumers rely on licensed agents and
brokers to understand increasingly complex coverage options, find plans that meet their needs and get help when
problems arise. We should be strengthening those consumer protections, not limiting access to the trusted professionals
who provide them.”

Independent agents and brokers are a critical part of the Marketplace enrollment infrastructure. During the 2026 Open
Enrollment Period, 76% of active HealthCare.gov plan selections were assisted by an agent or broker. Restricting new
Marketplace registrations could reduce access to that assistance as agents, brokers and consumers prepare for the
upcoming Open Enrollment Period.

NABIP is also concerned about the timing and uncertainty surrounding such a significant policy change. With Plan Year
2027 preparations already underway and Open Enrollment approaching, agents and agencies need clear, predictable
rules governing who may register and serve Marketplace consumers. A federal regulatory review record identifies a CMS
notice titled Private Health Insurance; New Agent/Broker Registrations for Plan Year 2027 Moratorium Guidance, but the
guidance remains under review and does not yet explain the scope, duration or application of the contemplated
moratorium.

For years, NABIP has worked with CMS and the Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight to advance
solutions that prevent fraudulent and unauthorized enrollments while preserving consumer access to legitimate
professionals. NABIP has advocated for stronger identity verification, secure consumer authorization, improved
technology and data analytics, and swift enforcement against bad actors. State-based exchanges have implemented
similar safeguards that can help prevent the types of fraudulent activity seen in the Federally-facilitated Marketplace.

This position also reflects the principles of NABIP’s Healthcare Bill of Rights, which calls for protecting consumers,
preserving choice and ensuring access to trusted professional guidance.

NABIP urges CMS to reconsider any moratorium and instead focus on targeted safeguards and enforcement that stop
fraudulent activity while protecting consumers’ access to legitimate, licensed agents and brokers.

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NABIP is the preeminent organization for health insurance and employee benefits professionals, working diligently to
ensure all Americans have access to high-quality, affordable healthcare and related benefits. NABIP represents and
provides professional development opportunities for more than 100,000 licensed health insurance agents, brokers,
general agents, consultants, and benefit professionals through more than 200 chapters across America.

Download the press release here.

Last week’s news that Health Net will exit the California commercial market is a major development for our industry, and for many of us it is also personal.

Over the years, Health Net representatives have been familiar faces at CAHIP NorCal membership meetings, educational programs and social events. They have answered our questions, helped us solve problems for clients, sponsored our programs, shared their expertise and in many cases become our friends.

Our thoughts are especially with our Health Net colleagues as they navigate the uncertainty and disruption that this decision may create for them and their families.

For brokers, the months ahead will bring a different kind of challenge. Every affected Health Net group will need guidance through a transition to new coverage. That means reviewing alternatives, educating employers and employees, preparing proposals, managing enrollments and helping clients make consequential decisions, all while continuing to serve the rest of our books of business.

It will be a tremendous amount of work.

It will also reshape the California benefits marketplace. Carriers and general agencies will be competing for substantial new business, and brokers will be deciding where to place thousands of affected groups.

As those decisions are made, we encourage our members to remember the industry partners who invest in our professional community, support CAHIP NorCal, participate in our programs and show up for brokers throughout the year. Client needs must always come first, but relationships, accessibility, service and a demonstrated commitment to the broker community matter too.

And this is exactly why being together in person still matters.

A carrier representative you met at a CAHIP NorCal event may soon be the person helping you solve a difficult transition. A general agency colleague you talked with over breakfast may become an important resource during an unexpectedly busy renewal season. A broker you met at a membership social may have experience with a product or situation you are confronting for the first time.

Those conversations cannot always be replicated by an email, webinar or website.

Over the coming months, lean on the relationships you have built through CAHIP NorCal, and keep building new ones. Attend the meetings. Talk with the carriers and general agencies. Introduce yourself to someone you don’t already know. Ask questions. Share what you are learning. Help a colleague when you can.

Our marketplace is changing, but none of us has to navigate that change alone.

CAHIP NorCal will continue bringing together brokers, carriers, general agencies and benefits professionals so that our members have the relationships, information and professional community they need to serve their clients through this transition and whatever comes next.

This is what an association is for.

If you’re not yet a member, or your membership has lapsed: there’s rarely been a clearer moment to join. Join or renew today. Right now, strength in numbers is the difference between an industry that reacts to disruption and one that shapes what comes after it.

Download the PDF here.

Auburn, CA — May 15, 2026

CAHIP NorCal (California Association of Health Insurance Professionals, Northern California) brought together industry professionals, sponsors, and community partners on Friday, May 8, 2026 for its annual golf tournament at The Ridge Golf Course. The event welcomed 108 golfers for a full day of friendly competition, networking, and fundraising in support of the chapter’s ongoing advocacy and professional development efforts.

Set against the scenic backdrop of Auburn’s verdant landscape, the tournament featured great food, refreshing beverages, raffle prizes, and opportunities for members and sponsors to connect outside of the traditional workplace setting. The event continues to be one of CAHIP NorCal’s most anticipated annual traditions, bringing together professionals from across the health insurance and employee benefits industry.

“We were thrilled to see such a strong turnout and so much enthusiasm throughout the day,” said Lauren Bayha, Executive Director of CAHIP NorCal. “Events like this strengthen our professional community while helping support the important work our chapter does year-round.”

In addition to a successful day on the course, the tournament highlighted the strong support of CAHIP NorCal’s sponsors and volunteers, whose contributions helped make the event possible.

The chapter extends its gratitude to all golfers, sponsors, volunteers, and committee members who contributed to the success of the tournament.

For more information about CAHIP NorCal and future community events, please visit www.cahip-norcal.org.

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For over 37 years, CAHIP-NorCal has worked to improve our members’ ability to meet the health, financial and retirement security needs of all Californians and Americans through education, advocacy, and professional development. For more information, please visit: CAHIP-NorCal.org. 

CAHIP NorCal Volunteers Andrea Murphrey and Shannon Rogers at the registration table.

Photo credit: Corinne Huey

CAHIP NorCal golf foursome poses with “Pro Shot” golfer Jerah Venkaiya from William Jessup University

From left to right: Andy Fullerton, Brad Davis, Jerah Venkaiya, Dave Fear Jr., Nicholas Sergeeff

Photo credit: Corinne Huey

Download the PDF version here.

Sacramento, CA — May 15, 2026

Health insurance professionals from across California gathered in Sacramento on May 5–6, 2026 for the annual CAHIP Capitol Summit, a two-day event centered on legislative advocacy, professional development, and strengthening the voice of the health insurance industry.

Hosted by the California Association of Health Insurance Professionals, the summit brought together agents, brokers, industry leaders, and advocates from across California for educational sessions, policy discussions, networking opportunities, and direct engagement with state legislators.

The event featured a keynote presentation by political commentator Mike Madrid, a “Meet California Insurance Commissioner Candidate” session featuring Insurance Commissioner candidates Ben Allen, Steve Bradford, and Stacy Korsgaden, and industry-focused presentations covering topics such as Medicare advocacy, membership engagement, legislative priorities, and emerging challenges facing California consumers and health insurance professionals.

A major highlight of the summit was Legislative Day on May 6, during which attendees participated in appointments with lawmakers and legislative staff at the California State Capitol to advocate for CAHIP’s policy priorities and discuss issues impacting agents, employers, and consumers throughout the state.

In addition to professional development and advocacy efforts, attendees also gathered for a special supplemental event, “Night at the Ballpark,” benefiting the CAHIP PAC. The evening fundraiser brought members and industry partners together at a Sacramento River Cats game for networking, community building, and continued support of CAHIP’s advocacy initiatives. Guests enjoyed a reserved rooftop experience, backyard barbecue, raffle opportunities, and an evening of baseball as the River Cats faced the Reno Aces.

“The Capitol Summit is one of the most important opportunities we have each year to come together as an industry and advocate for both our clients and our profession,” said CAHIP NorCal Legislative Chair Josh Edwards. “From educational sessions to direct conversations with legislators, the event reinforces the critical role health insurance professionals play in helping Californians access and navigate healthcare coverage.”

CAHIP continues to advocate for policies that protect consumer choice, improve access to care, and support the important work of licensed health insurance professionals throughout California.

For more information about CAHIP NorCal and future community events, please visit www.cahip-norcal.org.

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For over 37 years, CAHIP-NorCal has worked to improve our members’ ability to meet the health, financial and retirement security needs of all Californians and Americans through education, advocacy, and professional development. For more information, please visit: CAHIP-NorCal.org. 

From left to right: Elizabeth Mitchell-Collord, Cora Lynn Alvar, Assembly Member Heather Hadwick, Josh Edwards.

Photo credit: Cora Lynn Alvar

Citrus Heights, CA — March 6, 2026 The California Association of Health Insurance Professionals (CAHIP) NorCal chapter hosted its annual crab feed last weekend, bringing together members of the local insurance and healthcare community for an evening of networking, fundraising, and community impact.

This year’s event included a meaningful partnership with the AVID program at Casa Roble High School, giving students the opportunity to gain volunteer hours and real-world event experience while supporting their own educational goals.

AVID students assisted throughout the evening by serving guests and supporting the flow of dinner service. Their participation provided service experience in a professional event setting while connecting them with local business leaders.

CAHIP NorCal’s attendees generously tipped the AVID students nearly $2,000, which goes directly to supporting graduating AVID seniors. The money helps cover campus visits and college dorm room essentials. This year’s campus visits include UC Merced, Fresno State, Cal Poly, UC Santa Cruz, CSU Monterey Bay, and CSU Stanislaus.

“We love partnering with the Casa AVID students. They are very responsible and do a phenomenal job keeping up with their tables,” said Lauren Bayha, Executive Director of CAHIP NorCal. Kathryn Kelly, Casa Roble AVID advisor, echoed the sentiment, saying, “The kids had a lot of fun and learned valuable job skills.”

The annual crab feed is one of CAHIP NorCal’s signature events, known for its lively atmosphere and popular dessert auction. This year’s western-themed celebration was not just a fun gathering, but also reflected CAHIP NorCal’s commitment to community engagement. CAHIP NorCal looks forward to continuing its partnership with community organizations in the years ahead.

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For over 37 years, CAHIP-NorCal has worked to improve our members’ ability to meet the health, financial and retirement security needs of all Californians and Americans through education, advocacy, and professional development. For more information, please visit: CAHIP-NorCal.org. 

Sacramento, CA — Representatives from California Agents and Health Insurance Professionals Northern California (CAHIP NorCal) traveled to Washington, D.C. to participate in the 2026 National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals (NABIP) Capitol Conference, where insurance professionals from across the country gathered to discuss national healthcare policy and advocate for legislation that benefits both consumers and the health insurance industry.

CAHIP NorCal’s delegation included David Brabender of Atman Insurance and CAHIP NorCal Immediate Past President, Josh Edwards of Eureka Insurance Solutions and CAHIP NorCal Legislative Chair, and Dave Fear Jr., also of Eureka Insurance Solutions.

Held February 22-24 at the Hyatt Regency Capitol Hill, the conference brought together agents, brokers, consultants, and benefits specialists for general sessions, legislative briefings, and regional meetings focused on current healthcare challenges and policy priorities. The event culminated with an Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill, where participants met directly with members of Congress and their staff to discuss solutions aimed at improving affordability, transparency, and access to healthcare coverage.

Key policy priorities discussed during the conference included strengthening healthcare price transparency, stabilizing the ACA marketplace, protecting employer sponsored health coverage, improving the Medicare enrollment process, and ensuring consumers continue to have access to knowledgeable licensed agents and brokers when selecting coverage.

“I appreciate being able to go to congress and share firsthand perspectives of the challenges facing consumers, employers, and the benefits professionals who serve them,” stated Brabender. “It is always a powerful experience to participate directly in our democratic process and bring the voice of our industry to the policymakers who shape it.”

The annual conference also provides an opportunity for professionals from across the country to collaborate, share best practices, and strengthen the profession’s unified voice on healthcare policy.

CAHIP NorCal remains committed to advocating for policies that support consumers, employers, and the licensed professionals who help them navigate an increasingly complex healthcare system.

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For over 37 years, CAHIP-NorCal has worked to improve our members’ ability to meet the health, financial and retirement security needs of all Californians and Americans through education, advocacy, and professional development. For more information, please visit: CAHIP-NorCal.org. 

Rancho Cordova, CA — January 16, 2026

CAHIP NorCal (California Association of Health Insurance Professionals, Northern California) kicked off its 2026 event calendar with a strong start, hosting its annual Vanguard Cornhole Tournament alongside the much-anticipated return of its chili cook-off at LeFive Indoor Soccer on January 15. The event welcomed 75 attendees for an afternoon of friendly competition, networking, and community connection.

The chili cook-off featured eight unique submissions, marking the return of a beloved CAHIP NorCal tradition. Rebecca Overstreet of TEKsystems earned first place for her standout chili.

“I got this recipe from someone who said it had won multiple chili cook-offs, but I didn’t know if it would win this one. I heard I was up against a multi-year chili champion,” said Overstreet.

Second place went to Marissa Smith of Dickerson Insurance Services, and third place went to Brad Davis of WSR Insurance.

On the cornhole courts, competition was fierce as teams battled for top honors. First place went to Andy Fullerton of Eureka Insurance Solutions and Sean Donalley of Sutter Health Plan. Curtis Tuttle and Matt Christenson representing Amwins Connect took home second place, and third place went to Jeremiah Lopez and Alex Trujillo from Insperity.

The annual Vanguard Cornhole Tournament continues to be a signature CAHIP NorCal event, bringing together insurance professionals for networking, camaraderie, and friendly rivalry. As CAHIP NorCal’s first event of the year, this tournament and chili cook-off set a positive tone for the months ahead.

For more information about CAHIP NorCal and future community events, please visit www.cahip-norcal.org.

From left to right: Jeremiah Lopez (Insperity), Alex Trujillo (Insperity), Andy Fullerton (Eureka Insurance Solutions), Sean Donnalley (Sutter Health Plan), Matt Christenson (Amwins Connect), Curtis Tuttle (Amwins Connect).

From left to right: Brad Davis (WSR Insurance), Rebecca Overstreet (TEKsystems), Marissa Smith (Dickerson Insurance Services).

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For over 37 years, CAHIP-NorCal has worked to improve our members’ ability to meet the health, financial and retirement security needs of all Californians and Americans through education, advocacy, and professional development. For more information, please visit: CAHIP-NorCal.org. 

Sacramento, CA — December 18, 2025

CAHIP NorCal (California Association of Health Insurance Professionals, Northern California) is proud to announce the successful completion of its annual Toy Drive in partnership with River Oak Center for Children. Through this collaboration, gifts were provided to 300 families in the community, helping bring joy and support to children and caregivers during the holidays.

CAHIP NorCal Board members Lauren Bayha (BayhaBenefits Insurance Solutions), Corinne Huey (BayhaBenefits Insurance Solutions), Michele Childers (Cypress Dental), and Josh Edwards (Eureka Insurance Solutions) attended the gift-wrapping event, volunteering their time to help prepare presents once families had made their selections.

“Giving back to our community is a meaningful part of who we are as an organization,” said Michele Childers, CAHIP NorCal Community Service Chair. “It was incredibly rewarding to serve local families and to partner with River Oak Center for Children once again. Their dedication to supporting children and families makes a real difference, and we’re honored to be part of that work.”

The Toy Drive reflects CAHIP NorCal’s ongoing commitment to community service alongside its work in advocacy, education, and professional development for health insurance and benefits professionals.

CAHIP NorCal extends sincere gratitude to River Oak Center for Children and to all members and volunteers who contributed their time and generosity to make this initiative a success.

For more information about CAHIP NorCal and future community events, please visit www.cahip-norcal.org. For more information about River Oak Center for Children and the important work they do, please visit www.riveroak.org.

From left to right, CAHIP Legislative Chair Josh Edwards (Eureka Insurance Solutions), CAHIP Community Service Chair Michele Childers (Cypress Dental), CAHIP Executive Director Lauren Bayha (BayhaBenefits Insurance Solutions), and CAHIP Media Relations Chair Corinne Huey (BayhaBenefits Insurance Solutions).

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For over 37 years, CAHIP-NorCal has worked to improve our members’ ability to meet the health, financial and retirement security needs of all Californians and Americans through education, advocacy, and professional development. For more information, please visit: CAHIP-NorCal.org. 

Sacramento, CA — November 24, 2025

CAHIP NorCal is proud to announce that they exceeded their fundraising goal for this year’s CAHIP NorCal Turkey Drive benefitting the River Oak Center for Children. With an initial goal of $2,000, their generous members and community partners came together to raise $2,270, helping to provide full Thanksgiving meals to 50 families in the Sacramento area.

Thanks to these contributions, each family received a Thanksgiving meal box complete with mashed potatoes, stuffing, green beans, pie, and all the essentials that make the holiday special. These boxes were assembled and distributed by the River Oak Center for Children, whose mission is to support vulnerable youth and families in the Sacramento region.

“CAHIP NorCal is honored to support River Oak’s important work,” said Lauren Bayha, CAHIP Nor-Cal Executive Director. “Our members show up year after year with compassion and generosity, and we’re grateful to everyone who helped us surpass our goal and make a meaningful impact in our community.”

The CAHIP NorCal Turkey Drive is an annual tradition that reflects the chapter’s ongoing commitment to service, community partnerships, and supporting local families in need. They extend heartfelt thanks to every individual and organization who donated, shared, or helped spread the word. That generosity ensured that dozens of families can enjoy a warm, abundant Thanksgiving meal together.

For more information about CAHIP NorCal and future community initiatives, please visit www.cahip-norcal.org. For more information about River Oak Center for Children and the important work they do, please visit www.riveroak.org.

From left to right, CAHIP Community Service Chair Michele Childers (Cypress Dental), CAHIP President Brad Wright (ABC Workforce), CAHIP Past President David Brabender (Atman Insurance), CAHIP Media Relations Chair Corinne Huey (BayhaBenefits Insurance Solutions LLC), and CAHIP New Membership Chair Kaley Olsen (Human Interest).

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For over 37 years, CAHIP-NorCal has worked to improve our members’ ability to meet the health, financial and retirement security needs of all Californians and Americans through education, advocacy, and professional development. For more information, please visit: CAHIP-NorCal.org.