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Department of Insurance and Financial Services Director Anita Fox Joins National Committee on Race and Insurance

Media Contact: Laura Hall, 517-290-3779, halll17@michigan.gov
Consumer Hotline: 877-999-6442, Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 30, 2020

(LANSING, MICH) Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) Director Anita Fox has been named to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners' (NAIC) Special Committee on Race and Insurance, which will take the lead on issues related to race, diversity, inclusion, and access in the insurance sector.

“Access to insurance is a key component of financial security and opportunity,” said Fox. “I am committed to joining the NAIC and my peers nationwide to critically examine and take meaningful steps to confront the issues of racial disparities and inequities in the insurance sector that have created barriers to equal access to insurance products for people of color and other underrepresented communities.”

The NAIC Special Committee on Race and Insurance is charged with conducting research and analyzing issues of diversity and inclusion within the insurance sector; engaging with a broad group of stakeholders on issues related to race, diversity, and inclusion in, and access to, the insurance sector and insurance products; examining and determining which current practices or barriers exist in the insurance sector that potentially disadvantage persons of color and other underrepresented groups; and making recommendations for action to the NAIC Executive Committee and membership.

“Our mission drives us to ensure that all Michigan residents have access to insurance and financial services, which includes improving access in underserved communities and removing explicit or implicit racial and other biases to eliminate barriers to these essential services,” said Fox. “DIFS is committed to working with national and state partners to address these serious issues.”

Fox was appointed to Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s Cabinet as the Director of DIFS in January 2019. Previously, Fox practiced law in Washington DC and Michigan, managing complex litigation in federal and state courts and providing advice and counsel to individuals and businesses on a broad range of topics.

The mission of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is to ensure access to safe and secure insurance and financial services fundamental for the opportunity, security, and success of Michigan residents, while fostering economic growth and sustainability in both industries. In addition, the Department provides consumer protection, outreach, and financial literacy and education services to Michigan residents. For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/difs or follow the Department on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.

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