Oklahoma Insurance Department 

September 23, 2019 News Releases Lower Workers Comp Premiums for Oklahoma Employers Lower Workers’ Comp Premiums for Oklahoma Employers OKLAHOMA CITY – Commissioner Glen Mulready and the Oklahoma Insurance Department approved a 5.1% percent decrease in workers’ compensation insurance loss costs for 2020. This will mark the ninth annual experience filing with a decrease The new loss costs go into effect on January 1, 2020.  Loss costs are the average cost of lost wages and medical payments of...Read More

June 7, 2019 News Releases Commissioner Glen Mulready Files Amicus in Federal Court to Support AHPs OKLAHOMA CITY – Attorneys for the Oklahoma Insurance Department filed a brief with the U.S. Court of Appeals in support of giving Oklahomans more health insurance options. The amicus brief is in response to a U.S. Department of Labor rule that was overturned by a Circuit Court judge. “This rule, coupled with Oklahoma’s new AHP bill, gives small business owners in our state the chance to find affordable health insurance...Read More

May 24, 2019 News Releases Commissioner Mulready Calls for a Hold on Policy Cancellations TULSA – Storm victims with insurance will be protected after a bulletin was issued today by the Oklahoma Insurance Department. The bulletin directs all insurance companies to keep coverage in effect for storm victims for the next 30 days. “The effects of the severe weather and flooding have made it difficult for Oklahomans to carry out every day activities, much less tend to their insurance premiums,” Oklahoma Insurance...Read More

April 17, 2019 News Releases Commissioner Glen Mulready Says Get Ready OKLAHOMA CITY – With storm season here, Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready is asking Oklahomans to get ready. The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is launching the “Get Ready” initiative this month to encourage people to prepare before a storm hits. “We never know when the next storm is going to strike,” Commissioner Mulready said. “But we do know that preparation ahead of the disaster makes recovery...Read More

March 29, 2019 News Releases Insurance Department Supporting Gov. Stitt by Running OKC Memorial Marathon OKLAHOMA CITY – Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready and his staff are answering the call from Gov. Kevin Stitt. This week, the Oklahoma Insurance Department signed up to compete in the Governor’s Relay Challenge at the 2019 Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon. “We stand behind the Governor and his push for a healthier Oklahoma,” said Commissioner Mulready. “This is a great way to support Gov. Stitt, the Oklahoma...Read More

January 24, 2019 News Releases Commissioner Glen Mulready issues notice to insurance companies to assist those policyholders OKLAHOMA CITY - Today, Commissioner Glen Mulready issued a bulletin to insurance companies in Oklahoma encouraging them to work with and assist those policyholders affected by the partial Federal Government shutdown. The bulletin has been issued to all insurance companies in Oklahoma. Policyholders are encouraged to call their insurance companies as soon as possible to make arrangements for payment terms that will help them get through the...Read More

January 14, 2019 News Releases Doak Proud of his Two Terms as Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner OKLAHOMA CITY – As new state leaders are sworn in today, John D. Doak reflects on his eight years as Oklahoma’s insurance commissioner. Doak was elected the state’s 12th insurance commissioner in 2010 and was re-elected for a second term in 2014. “I’m honored that Oklahomans chose to elect me to represent them, both in terms of insurance company solvency and ensuring fair claims handling,” Doak said....Read More

January 10, 2019 News Releases Commissioner Doak Applauds University of Tulsa Effort to Create Tulsa Cyber District OKLAHOMA CITY – Private and public organizations are working together in hopes of creating the Tulsa Cyber District. The goal of the ambitious project is to better protect nations, businesses and citizens from the growing threat of cyber warfare. At a meeting Monday, Commissioner Doak, University of Tulsa President Gerard P. Clancy, U.S. Rep. Kevin Hern and Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum discussed the vision. More than two dozen insurance industry...Read More

December 19, 2018 News Releases Commissioner Doak Applauds Ruling that Overturns Affordable Care Act OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is praising the ruling by a federal judge that the Affordable Care Act is unconstitutional. Judge Reed C. O'Connor said the tax bill passed by Congress in Dec. 2017 effectively rendered the entire health law unconstitutional because it eliminated the penalty for not having insurance. O'Connor, judge of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas,...Read More

December 5, 2018 News Releases Commissioner Doak Welcomes NCOIL to Oklahoma City OKLAHOMA CITY – The National Council of Insurance Legislators (NCOIL) holds its annual meeting in Oklahoma City this week. The legislative organization is comprised of state lawmakers from around the nation. Its members meet today through Saturday at the Renaissance Oklahoma City Convention Center Hotel & Spa. “I want to extend a warm welcome to legislators from around the country coming to Oklahoma City for this important...Read More

December 3, 2018 News Releases Insurance Department Staff Shows Commitment to Professional Development OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is one of the most highly trained insurance departments in the country. Under the leadership of Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak, employees have earned a total of 161 professional designations. “I am extremely proud of our employees for taking their insurance knowledge to the next level,” said Doak. “Not only does it show a commitment to high-level public...Read More

November 29, 2018 News Releases Life Insurance Policy Locator Finds Almost $2 Million for Oklahomans in Second Year OKLAHOMA CITY – Almost $2 million in lost life insurance policies and annuities has been matched to Oklahomans in the last 12 months. The policies were found through the Life Insurance Policy Locator, a free nationwide database. The Oklahoma Insurance Department and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners launched the service in November 2016. In Oklahoma, 690 beneficiaries have been matched with $8 million since the service...Read More

November 27, 2018 News Releases Insurance Commissioner-elect Glen Mulready Names Tyler Laughlin Chief of Staff   Insurance Commissioner-elect Glen Mulready Names Tyler Laughlin Chief of Staff, First Deputy and Head of Transition Team OKLAHOMA CITY – Insurance Commissioner-elect Glen Mulready has tapped Oklahoma native and longtime conservative adviser Tyler Laughlin to lead his transition efforts. Laughlin, currently a deputy commissioner for the Oklahoma Insurance Department, was also part of the transition team for former Attorney...Read More

November 7, 2018 News Releases Commissioner Doak Congratulates Commissioner-Elect Mulready, Promises Smooth Transition OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak extends his heartfelt congratulations to Commissioner-elect Glen Mulready today. Mulready won last night’s election to become the next state insurance commissioner. “Commissioner-elect Glen Mulready will be a wonderful insurance commissioner,” said Doak. “He’s been a great friend to the Oklahoma Insurance Department as a legislator, working with...Read More

October 25, 2018 News Releases Attorney Returns to Oklahoma Insurance Department in New Position OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak welcomes Ron Kreiter back to the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) as Deputy General Counsel. Kreiter previously worked at the OID from 1980-1987 as an assistant commissioner and staff attorney. He brings with him more than 40 years of experience in both the regulatory and business sides of insurance. “Ron has a unique mix of knowledge that fits well with the mission...Read More

October 23, 2018 News Releases Free Help Offered During Medicare's Open Enrollment Period OKLAHOMA CITY – Counselors with the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) can help beneficiaries review their plans for 2019. Medicare health and drug plans can be changed every year. There are 28 individual prescription drug plans and, depending on where you live, 30 different Medicare Advantage plans available in Oklahoma for 2019. People with Medicare can switch to plans that better meet their needs...Read More

September 20, 2018 News Releases Former Insurance Company President Hired as OID Chief Actuary OKLAHOMA CITY – The former president of Reserve National Insurance Company has accepted the position of Chief Actuary at the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID). Andrew Schallhorn’s first day will be Sept. 24. “This position is extremely vital,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “Monitoring the financial solvency of insurance companies is the number one thing we do to protect consumers. Andrew...Read More

September 18, 2018 News Releases Two Free Educational Opportunities for Oklahoma's Workers' Compensation Professionals OKLAHOMA CITY – Workers’ compensation professionals in Oklahoma will have two chances to learn critical information at free conferences next month. The Oklahoma Insurance Department will host the 2018 State Advisory Forum on Oct. 9 in Tulsa. The National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) will host a second event the following day in Oklahoma City. “These forums help workers’ compensation professionals better...Read More

September 14, 2018 News Releases Oklahoma Workers' Compensation Loss Costs Fall Nearly 64 Percent Under Doak's Tenure OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma employers could pay less for workers’ compensation insurance next year. The National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) has proposed an overall loss cost decrease of 2.3 percent in a filing that many insurers use to develop prices. NCCI credits the reduced loss cost to favorable experience across all industry groups. “This is great news for Oklahoma,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner...Read More

September 14, 2018 News Releases Commissioner Doak Supports President Trump's Decision on Short-Term Health Plans OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak plans to work with the Legislature to expand state law regarding short-term limited duration health insurance coverage. Last month, the Trump administration finalized rules on short-term policies expanding the maximum duration from three months to 12 months and allowing insurers to renew or extend short-term coverage for up to 36 months. Currently, Oklahoma law only allows the...Read More

September 7, 2018 News Releases Agencies Combine Efforts to Ask Teens to #JustDriveOK OKLAHOMA CITY – Despite Oklahoma’s law to prevent texting and driving, new data shows young drivers are the most likely to be distracted leading up to a crash. That’s why the Oklahoma Insurance Department, the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority and the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office are joining forces to ask teens to take the pledge to not drive distracted. “What people need to...Read More

August 23, 2018 News Releases Forum Gathers Global Experts to Discuss New Insurance Law OKLAHOMA CITY – An international forum of insurance experts explained a new law that is expected to bring an economic boost to Oklahoma. The Insurance Business Transfer (IBT) Forum was hosted by the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) in Tulsa Tuesday. “Oklahoma’s IBT law is unique to the United States, and I believe that this law will put us on the map as part of the global insurance industry,” Oklahoma Insurance...Read More

August 10, 2018 News Releases Teen Drivers Can Pledge to #JustDriveOK OKLAHOMA CITY – As students head back to school this month, the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is asking teen drivers to say no to distracted driving. The Department is launching the #JustDriveOK campaign next week. “Distracted driving can have deadly consequences, but the solution to distracted driving is simple,” Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak said. “We are asking teen drivers to be aware of what...Read More

August 3, 2018 News Releases New Rule Calls for Flood Insurance Education OKLAHOMA CITY – Property insurance professionals in Oklahoma will soon be required to expand their knowledge on flood insurance. Gov. Mary Fallin signed a rule this week requiring one hour of flood insurance continuing education beginning January 2019. “Many Oklahomans don’t know they can purchase flood insurance if they don’t live in a flood zone,” Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak said. “But...Read More

August 2, 2018 News Releases Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Praises Health Insurance Ruling OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahomans will have more flexibility and choices in health insurance after the Trump administration delivered on a promise. The Departments of Health and Human Services, Labor and the Treasury issued a final rule allowing the sale and renewal of short-term, limited-duration plans. “President Trump is delivering on his promise to bring down the cost of health insurance for Americans,” Oklahoma Insurance...Read More

July 13, 2018 News Releases Oklahoma Insurance Department Staffing Up for Captives OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma is continuing to see growth in its captive market thanks to the state’s efforts to modernize captive regulation. Providing unparalleled service to the captive industry is imperative for the Captive Insurance Division (CID) of the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID). To continue its mission of excellence the CID is actively seeking to expand its staff with two critical positions. Positions are now open for...Read More

June 25, 2018 News Releases Oklahomans Will Have Two Carriers on the Federal Marketplace in 2019 OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahomans who buy their health insurance through the federal marketplace will have a choice between two insurers in 2019. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oklahoma and Medica both submitted Qualified Health Plan applications, along with rates, for certification. “Buying health coverage for you and your family is important, and now with two health insurance carriers on the exchange, Oklahoma consumers have more options...Read More

June 20, 2018 News Releases Doak Supports Trump Administration Expansion of Health Insurance Options for Small Business Owners OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma’s small business owners will now have more access to quality and affordable healthcare options. Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is applauding the actions taken by the Trump Administration this week. “Under Obamacare, small business owners in our state have struggled to find affordable health insurance choices for their employees and their employees’ families,” Doak said. “I...Read More

June 13, 2018 News Releases Oklahomans Should Be On Alert as New Medicare Cards Arrive OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma’s 675,000 residents on Medicare will get new, more secure cards starting this month. The card will have a new Medicare number that’s unique to each person instead of the person’s Social Security Number. “The change to a new Medicare Number will help protect citizens from identity theft and fraud,” Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak said. “But with these new security...Read More

June 4, 2018 News Releases State Takes First Step toward Improving Auto Insurance Verification System OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES) has awarded a contract for the new Oklahoma Compulsory Insurance Verification System (OCIVS). The new system, hosted by MV Solutions, Inc., will be overseen by the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID). The current system has been managed by the Department of Public Safety (DPS). Senate Bill 115, passed in 2017, transferred authority of the system from DPS to...Read More

May 1, 2018 News Releases Dozens of Insurance Companies Offering Discounts to Oklahomans with Tornado-Resilient Homes OKLAHOMA CITY – Dozens of insurance companies are now offering discounts to Oklahomans who have built or retrofitted their homes to certain tornado-resilient standards. A new law went into effect on April 1 requiring the discounts. Since then, multiple companies have notified the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) of their premium rate discount. “Storm season is here, and we’ve got to be thinking proactively to save lives...Read More

May 1, 2018 News Releases New Exam Vendor Offers Improved Licensing Procedures OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) has partnered with Prometric® to offer an improved insurance and bail bondsman licensing process. Starting today, Prometric® will support the development and delivery of exam content for all of OID’s statewide licensing examinations. “Partnering with Prometric® is showing our commitment to providing a positive testing experience,” said Oklahoma...Read More

April 13, 2018 News Releases OID Available to Assist Wildfire Victims OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) stands ready to assist Oklahomans impacted by recent wildfires. Field representatives and Anti-Fraud investigators are in affected areas placing yard signs listing the OID consumer assistance phone number, 1-800-522-0071. Victims with insurance claims questions are encouraged to call. “These historic and devastating wildfires are going to affect a lot of people and we want to...Read More

April 5, 2018 News Releases Commissioner Doak Named to Executive Committee of Antifraud Coalition OKLAHOMA CITY — Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has been named to the Coalition Against Insurance Fraud’s executive committee. He was elected unanimously by the Coalition’s executive committee.             “John Doak brings a valuable dual viewpoint to the Coalition’s mission, both as a state insurance regulator and national antifraud leader....Read More

February 13, 2018 News Releases Free Seminars Teach Seniors to Avoid Fraud OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is continuing its mission to protect seniors from con artists. The agency is hosting a series of free events across the state to teach the state’s most vulnerable citizens how to spot, avoid and report fraud. “The rise in the use of technology has given crooks new ways to scam people out of their hard-earned money,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D....Read More

January 23, 2018 News Releases Commissioner Doak Named Chair of NAIC Antifraud Task Force OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has been named Chair of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ (NAIC) Antifraud (D) Task Force. Doak was also named to the International Insurance Relations (G) Committee, Executive (EX) Committee and Property and Casualty Insurance (C) Committee. “These appointments allow me to tackle critical issues affecting the insurance industry and...Read More

November 20, 2017 News Releases Oklahoma Joins International Information Exchange Agreement Agreement Strengthens International Supervisory Cooperation, Promotes Enhanced Consumer Protection   Oklahoma City – Victoria Saporta, Chair of the Executive Committee of the International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS), has announced that the Oklahoma Insurance Department has joined an international supervisory cooperation and information exchange agreement. Since the first jurisdiction was admitted in...Read More

October 12, 2017 News Releases Commissioner Doak Applauds President Trump's Executive Order on Association Health Plans OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is applauding President Donald Trump’s signing of an executive order that could expand the health insurance options for millions of Americans. Specifically, President Trump has directed federal agencies to amend rules to expand access to association health plans by allowing employers to form groups across state lines and to return oversight of short-term limited duration...Read More

October 11, 2017 News Releases Medicare Beneficiaries with Dropped Plans Have Options Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Medicare Assistance Program Offers Free Counseling OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) can help beneficiaries whose current Medicare Advantage plans won’t be available in 2018. Thousands of Oklahomans on Medicare received the cancellation notices this week. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) determined their existing...Read More

October 10, 2017 News Releases Commissioner Doak Commends Trump Administration for Upholding Religious Freedom OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is applauding the Trump administration after it announced plans to restore religious liberties and strengthen the First Amendment. The administration issued new rules that would limit the mandate that requires employers to provide insurance coverage for birth control despite their religious beliefs. “I commend President Trump for keeping his promise to Americans to...Read More

September 21, 2017 News Releases OID Helping Seniors Get Smart about Medicare before Open Enrollment OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department is hosting a series of free events to help seniors prepare for Medicare Open Enrollment. The education and counseling seminars will start on Oct. 4. “Medicare is in place to help our citizens, but we want to make sure they are getting the right plan for their needs,” Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak said. “These events are great for people who are new to...Read More

September 20, 2017 News Releases Free Forums Help Workers' Compensation Professionals Serve Oklahoma OKLAHOMA CITY – Workers’ compensation professionals in Oklahoma will have the opportunity to update their knowledge on the industry at two upcoming events. The National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) will host the 2017 State Advisory Forum on Oct. 10 in Oklahoma City. The Oklahoma Insurance Department will host a second forum in Tulsa the following day. “Oklahoma has seen some tremendous growth and success in the...Read More

September 14, 2017 News Releases Oklahoma Workers' Compensation Loss Costs Fall 16.3 Percent OKLAHOMA CITY – The annual filing most insurance carriers will use to develop rates for workers’ compensation insurance in Oklahoma shows a decrease for the fifth year in a row. The National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) plans to file an overall loss cost decrease of 16.3 percent. NCCI credits Oklahoma’s reduction to several factors, with the most significant being the experience Oklahoma has had in recent years...Read More

September 12, 2017 News Releases Commissioner Doak Requests Data from Obamacare Navigators OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has ordered Oklahoma’s registered navigators to provide summary reports on enrollment data. The request comes after Doak’s testimony to the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) revealed growing concerns about navigators. After Doak questioned the effectiveness of navigator enrollment and marketing tactics, U. S. Sen. Lamar Alexander said 17...Read More

September 6, 2017 News Releases Commissioner Doak Testifies at U.S. Senate Committee Hearing Today OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak will testify today before a Senate committee addressing skyrocketing premiums on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) exchanges. It’s the first of four bipartisan hearings the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) committee has planned. The goal is to address the actions Congress should take to stabilize and strengthen the individual health insurance market. ...Read More

September 1, 2017 News Releases Commissioner Doak Issues Cease & Desist Order to Former Insurance Agent OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has issued a cease and desist order to a former insurance agent in Cushing. Investigators discovered Mark Lauderdale, whose insurance license expired four years ago, continued collecting payments for insurance policies, but failed to forward all of the money on to insurance companies. The scheme left some of his clients without coverage for years. “Scams like this are...Read More

August 25, 2017 News Releases Alert for Seniors after Suspicious Phone Calls OKLAHOMA CITY – With Medicare open enrollment less than two months away, the Oklahoma Insurance Department is asking seniors to be on alert. The warning comes after several Oklahomans have reported questionable phone calls from people claiming to represent or partner with Medicare. “These callers are insistent on getting personal information from our seniors,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “We urge...Read More

August 8, 2017 News Releases Insurance Commissioner, Governor and Mayor Tour Tulsa Tornado Damage OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is offering tips to tornado victims to ease the recovery process. He just wrapped up a tour of the damage in midtown Tulsa with Governor Mary Fallin and Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum. “Filing an insurance claim can be an intimidating process,” Commissioner Doak said. “But we are here for those who suffered from the storms, including business owners. We want to make...Read More

August 2, 2017 News Releases Commissioner Doak to Discuss Insurance Fraud Protection Efforts at Senate Hearing OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak will participate in a Senate hearing focused on preventing insurance fraud. Commissioner Doak will testify before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation's Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, Insurance and Data Security. The hearing will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 3. “Protecting consumers from insurance fraud has...Read More

June 2, 2017 News Releases Oklahoma Insurer Files 2018 Rates for Federal Marketplace OKLAHOMA CITY – Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oklahoma has submitted a Qualified Health Plan application, along with rates, for certification in the federally-facilitated exchange for 2018.  This is an initial indication that, for the second straight year, only one insurer in Oklahoma will offer exchange products in the individual market.   “There is an incredible amount of uncertainty in the market right now,”...Read More

May 23, 2017 News Releases Telephone Scammers Target Storm Victims in Elk City & Perkins OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is urging storm victims to be on the lookout for scam artists. The Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Anti-Fraud Division has received complaints about suspicious phone calls to storm victims in Elk City and Perkins. The perpetrators falsely claim to represent several well-known insurance companies. Then the caller demands to inspect the consumer’s roof and refuses to...Read More

May 18, 2017 News Releases Doak Calls on State Leaders to Protect Oklahomans by Passing Tornado-Resistant Home Bill OKLAHOMA CITY – After assessing the damage from yet another tornado and speaking with the people affected in Elk City, Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is calling on the Oklahoma Legislature to pass legislation that would help protect Oklahomans. House Bill 1720 requires insurance companies to give homeowners an insurance premium discount for building or retrofitting their home to certain tornado-resilient standards. The new law would...Read More

May 5, 2017 News Releases Commissioner Doak Disappointed With State Farm Decision to Close Tulsa Facility OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak released the following statement regarding State Farm’s plan to close its Tulsa facility in 2019. “I am extremely disappointed in both the decision and the communication between State Farm and my office. I was notified about the closing just ten minutes before it was announced, giving me, Gov. Mary Fallin and Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum no time to discuss options and...Read More

May 1, 2017 News Releases Free Fraud Fighting Lessons for Oklahoma Seniors OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma’s seniors are the perfect target for con artists. Many of them have a “nest egg,” own their own home and have excellent credit. This summer the Oklahoma Insurance Department is arming seniors with the tools they need to protect themselves from fraud. “Scam artists exploit the very traits in our older citizens that we love so much,” Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak said....Read More

April 14, 2017 News Releases Commissioner Doak Hosts Healthcare Innovation Summit OKLAHOMA CITY – Mobile apps, wearable heart monitors and high-tech shoe soles could help solve some of America’s healthcare problems. These cutting-edge products are just a few of the topics up for discussion at the Healthcare Innovation Summit hosted by Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. The event will be held Friday, April 28 at the Oklahoma State University Health Science Center in Tulsa. “When it comes to...Read More

April 4, 2017 News Releases Commissioner Doak Praises Reps. Lucas & Bridenstine for Weather Research and Forecasting Innovation OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is praising a bill aimed at improving weather forecasts. H.R. 353, the Weather Research and Forecasting Innovation Act, is sponsored by Rep. Frank Lucas and Rep. Jim Bridenstine. “When it comes to surviving a tornado, every second counts,” said Doak. “That’s why this bill is so important. I commend Rep. Lucas and Rep. Bridenstine for their hard work on...Read More

March 24, 2017 News Releases Commissioner Doak Warns Lawmakers Oklahoma Exchange May Have No Carriers in 2018 OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is warning state and federal lawmakers that Oklahoma is in danger of having no insurers participate in the federal marketplace in 2018. The number of insurers on the Oklahoma exchange dwindled to just one after multiple carriers sustained significant losses. In a letter to Gov. Mary Fallin and Oklahoma’s federal lawmakers, Doak vowed to protect Oklahomans. “While I...Read More

March 22, 2017 News Releases Commissioner Doak Praises Bill That Could Reduce Homeowners Rates OKLAHOMA CITY – Lawmakers in the state House have unanimously given their approval to a bill that could save Oklahomans money on their homeowners insurance. House Bill 1720 provides discounts for building resilient homes. Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is excited to see the progression of the bill which encourages use of the latest technology to reduce the impact of tornadoes on lives and property.   “Thanks...Read More

March 20, 2017 News Releases Oklahoma City Fire Department's Top Rating Could Lead to Lower Insurance Premiums OKLAHOMA CITY – Thousands of Oklahoma City homeowners will save money on their property insurance after the Oklahoma City Fire Department received the top fire protection rating. The Class 1/4 rating goes into effect June 1. “This is fantastic news for Oklahoma City residents,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “Not only does it give them peace of mind knowing they are protected by one of the best fire...Read More

February 21, 2017 News Releases Tulsa Man Receives Life Sentence for Assaulting, Robbing Insurance Adjuster OKLAHOMA CITY – A Tulsa man who filed a bogus insurance claim and assaulted an insurance adjuster has been sentenced to life in prison. Prentice E. Ponds II, 43, was on parole at the time of the crime. He has a long criminal history with multiple felony convictions.   “Oklahoma is a safer place with this man behind bars,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “While it’s common for insurance...Read More

January 27, 2017 News Releases Oklahoma Insurance Department to Host Town Hall Meetings on Health Care Reform OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department will host a series of town hall meetings across the state to discuss health care reform. Citizens are encouraged to attend and offer their suggestions.   “With the imminent repeal of Obamacare we have a golden opportunity to fix this broken system,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “We want to hear from Oklahomans to learn what changes...Read More

January 18, 2017 News Releases Innovative Solutions Needed to Fix America's Health Insurance Problem OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is offering innovative ideas on health insurance to national leaders. Doak responded today to a request from U.S. House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy asking for recommendations as lawmakers move forward with the repeal of the Affordable Care Act.   “If the Affordable Care Act is repealed, we should take this as an opportunity to do something different, something...Read More

January 11, 2017 News Releases Commissioner Doak Encourages State Leaders to Review Project ECHO Program OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is calling attention to a new effort to combat health issues in rural Oklahoma. He attended the Rural Health Leadership Summit hosted by the OSU Center for Health Sciences (OSU-CHS) on Tuesday. At the event, OSU-CHS officials introduced Project ECHO, an effort to use technology to address addiction, mental health, women’s health, HIV/AIDS and obesity in rural Oklahoma....Read More

December 14, 2016 News Releases Commissioner Doak Elected to National Role OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak will serve in a new role with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). This week NAIC members elected Doak as the Vice Chair of the Midwest Zone. He will also represent the Midwest Zone on the Government Relations Leadership Council.   “I’m honored to take on this new position,” Doak said. “Since I was elected insurance...Read More

December 9, 2016 News Releases Former Insurance Agent Charged with Embezzling More Than $64,000 OKLAHOMA CITY – A former Tulsa insurance agent was charged Thursday with embezzling more than $64,000. The charges are the result of a joint investigation by the Oklahoma Insurance Department and the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office. The Oklahoma Department of Securities also assisted with the case.   “I have zero tolerance for agents who break the law,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak....Read More

November 30, 2016 News Releases Commissioner Doak Applauds Bill to Increase Access to Healthcare in Rural Areas OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is issuing his support for the Expanding Capacity for Health Outcomes (ECHO) Act. The U.S. Senate passed the bill Monday. It aims to increase access to healthcare in rural areas.   “Oklahomans deserve high-quality health care no matter where they live,” said Doak. “Giving doctors the ability to connect with more patients and learn from a network of...Read More

November 29, 2016 News Releases Nationwide Service Will Help Oklahomans Find Lost Life Insurance Policies OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahomans will now have access to a national service that helps them find life insurance policy benefits. The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is partnering with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) to provide the free program.   “This service expands on what we were already offering – providing people with search capabilities to help find a deceased...Read More

November 22, 2016 News Releases Commissioner Doak to Take Part in OHP Ride-Alongs Over Thanksgiving Holiday OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak will ride-along with Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) troopers to raise awareness of highway safety laws. Commissioner Doak wants to make sure drivers are moving over for emergency vehicles, maintaining liability insurance coverage and not texting and driving. “This is one of the busiest weeks for road travel,” said Doak. “We want to make sure everyone gets to...Read More

November 21, 2016 News Releases Oklahoma Mourns the Loss of Former Attorney General Larry Derryberry OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department is mourning the loss of Larry Derryberry. The former Attorney General passed away Saturday. In Derryberry’s honor, Gov. Mary Fallin has ordered all U.S. and Oklahoma flags on state property to be flown at half-staff Monday, Nov. 28.   “This is a great loss for the State of Oklahoma,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “Larry leaves behind a...Read More

November 17, 2016 News Releases 30 Days Left to Get Free Medicare Enrollment Help OKLAHOMA CITY – Medicare beneficiaries have 30 days to review and change their Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans for 2017. The Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) and its partner agencies are offering free, unbiased help during the open enrollment period which ends Dec. 7.   “Plan costs and benefits can change from year to year,” Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D....Read More

November 14, 2016 News Releases Oklahoma Drivers Must Move Over to Save Lives OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department is joining forces to spread a life-saving message to drivers: “Move over. It’s the law.” The message is part of an initiative by the Oklahoma Traffic Incident Management Steering (TIMS) Coalition. The Coalition also includes representatives from the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Oklahoma Department of Transportation, Oklahoma Sheriffs Association, Oklahoma Emergency Management...Read More

November 8, 2016 News Releases Insurance Department Reaching Out to Consumers After Cushing Earthquake OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department is reaching out to Cushing residents affected by Sunday’s 5.0 magnitude earthquake. Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak toured the damage Monday.   “There is significant damage in Cushing,” said Commissioner Doak. “Many people here are on edge. For those with earthquake insurance, we want to help with the claims process so they can recover as quickly as...Read More

October 17, 2016 News Releases Free Help with Medicare Open Enrollment Could Lead to Major Savings OKLAHOMA CITY – Medicare beneficiaries in Oklahoma can get free, unbiased help reviewing their Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans for 2017. The Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) and its partner agencies are offering the assistance during the open enrollment period. Last year, MAP counselors helped Oklahoma beneficiaries save an average of $1,900 on their Part D prescription drug plan....Read More

October 5, 2016 News Releases October is Quit Month in Oklahoma SmokingisNotOK Campaign will inform Oklahomans about the importance of smoking cessation OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department, along with the American Cancer Action Network and the American Lung Association, will partner with numerous local health care providers in Oklahoma to sponsor SmokingisNotOK, a public awareness campaign aimed at informing residents about the importance of quitting smoking.  ...Read More

October 4, 2016 News Releases Oklahomans Brace for Skyrocketing Increases on ACA Marketplace OKLAHOMA CITY – Health insurance premiums will likely increase by an average of 76 percent for Oklahomans who buy individual coverage through the Affordable Care Act's marketplace. The increases for individual market plans range from 58 percent to 96 percent. “These jaw-dropping increases make it clear that Oklahoma’s exchange is on life support,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “Health...Read More

September 13, 2016 News Releases Commissioner Doak Clarifies Moratoriums on Earthquake Insurance OKLAHOMA CITY –Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak wants to alleviate concerns about six-month moratoriums on purchasing earthquake insurance. The concerns were raised after a 5.8 magnitude earthquake in Pawnee on Sept. 3. A moratorium is a temporary suspension on issuing new earthquake insurance policies.   “While touring earthquake damage in Pawnee, several residents said they didn’t think they could...Read More

September 6, 2016 News Releases Insurance Department Offering Help After Historic Earthquake OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is committed to helping those affected by one of the strongest earthquakes in state history. Gov. Mary Fallin declared a state of emergency in Pawnee County, the area rocked hardest by Saturday’s 5.6 magnitude quake. OID representatives toured the damaged areas and met with local officials Tuesday.   “Oklahoma is vulnerable to earthquakes right now,” said...Read More

September 1, 2016 News Releases Commissioner Doak, AARP & Fraud Expert Frank Abagnale Teach Oklahomans How to Avoid Scams OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is on a mission to protect Oklahomans from fraud. At an event Wednesday night in Tulsa, he discussed insurance scams targeting seniors. The AARP OK event, “An Evening with Frank Abagnale,” drew a sold out crowd to the Gilcrease Museum.    “Every Oklahoman needs the tools to protect themselves from fraud,” said Doak. “The crimes...Read More

August 24, 2016 News Releases Owasso Couple Charged with Exploiting World War II Veteran OKLAHOMA CITY – An Owasso couple is charged with exploitation of an elderly person for fraudulently taking over an 89-year-old man’s financial affairs. Former insurance agents Sterling Messer, 78, and Billie Messer, 60, cashed $15,189 worth of checks from the victim’s bank account. The victim said the Messers also pressured him into giving their church $22,000.   “The suspects violated each and every...Read More

August 17, 2016 News Releases Former Insurance Agent Headed to Prison for Fraud OKLAHOMA CITY – A former insurance agent has been sentenced to 27 months in prison for fraud. Gary Edward Hibbing, 53, pleaded guilty to two counts of wire fraud and two counts of money laundering.   “He took advantage of his clients’ trust,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “While cases like this are rare, my office will continue to pursue criminal charges against any insurance agent or...Read More

June 7, 2016 News Releases Commissioner Doak Declares Earthquake Insurance Market Noncompetitive OKLAHOMA CITY – Commissioner John D. Doak informed insurance companies that sell earthquake policies in Oklahoma that the earthquake insurance market is noncompetitive. The order will change the way insurers file their rates with the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID). “There needs to be a valid basis for any rate increase,” Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak said. “My job is to protect Oklahomans, and...Read More

May 26, 2016 News Releases OID has No Authority to Approve Obamacare Rate Increases OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department does not have statutory authority to approve or deny rate increases filed by insurers on the federal health insurance exchange. Oklahoma, along with Texas, Missouri, Alabama and Wyoming, is a direct enforcement state meaning it has no authority to enforce provisions of the Affordable Care Act. “We know consumers enrolled in ACA health plans are about to experience another round...Read More

May 24, 2016 News Releases Competitiveness Concerns Raised after Data Reveals Four Companies Have 55% of Earthquake Market OKLAHOMA CITY– Four insurance companies have 55 percent of the Oklahoma earthquake insurance market. The data was released at Tuesday’s hearing to determine the competitiveness of the coverage in Oklahoma. Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak called the hearing after carriers filed significant rate increases, dropped lower deductible options or decided to stop writing new earthquake insurance policies.   “My...Read More

May 13, 2016 News Releases Insurance Help Available for Tornado Victims OKLAHOMA CITY– The Oklahoma Insurance Department stands ready to help tornado victims. A state of emergency has been declared in 15 counties affected by Monday’s storms.   “After talking with some of the survivors in Garvin County, my department wants to help these families get back on their feet as soon as possible,” Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak said. “We want to make sure these folks...Read More

May 4, 2016 News Releases Insurance Fraud Charges Filed in Buried Truck Investigation OKLAHOMA CITY– Two men accused of burying a pickup truck that was later reported stolen are now charged with insurance fraud. Arrest warrants have been issued for Robert Campbell II, 49, of Langley and Larry Ezell, 25, of Vinita. The charges are the result of a joint investigation by the Oklahoma Insurance Department, Langley Police Department, Mayes County Sheriff’s Office, Craig County Sheriff’s Office, Delaware County...Read More

May 3, 2016 News Releases Free Conferences Help Seniors Fight Fraud OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma seniors can learn how to fight fraud at ten free conferences hosted by the Oklahoma Insurance Department. The seminars are scheduled in cities and towns all over the state from May to July.   “Our seniors should be protected from scammers,” Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak said. “These Senior Fraud Conferences will arm them with the information and skills they need to...Read More

April 29, 2016 News Releases Supreme Court Ruling Leads to Jump in Workers' Compensation Costs OKLAHOMA CITY – A decision by the Oklahoma Supreme Court could cause a jump in workers’ compensation rates. The National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) supplemental advisory loss cost filing received today by the Oklahoma Insurance Department shows an overall increase in loss costs of 3.4 percent. The increase was attributed to the April 12 Court ruling in the Maxwell vs. Sprint PCS case. “It is important for...Read More

April 26, 2016 News Releases Commissioner Doak Reminds Insurance Companies to Pay for Roof Repairs that Meet Building Codes OKLAHOMA CITY– In the midst of storm season, the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is reminding insurance companies to cover roof repairs that meet state or local building codes. OID issued a bulletin to insurers Monday after receiving multiple consumer complaints.   “These requirements must be followed when the roof is replaced,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “We expect the industry...Read More

April 19, 2016 News Releases Commissioner Doak Orders Hearing on Earthquake Insurance Rate Increases OKLAHOMA CITY– Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has ordered a public hearing to investigate a rise in earthquake insurance rates. The May 24 hearing will include data gathered by the Oklahoma Insurance Department as well as comments from insurers and citizens.   “This is a proactive move to protect consumers,” said Doak. “We’ve seen some rate increase filings up to 100 percent come through...Read More

April 15, 2016 News Releases Oklahoma Insurance Department Mourns Loss of Former Firefighter Jon Hansen, an Oklahoma Hero OKLAHOMA CITY– The Oklahoma Insurance Department is mourning the loss of Jon Hansen. The dedicated public servant died this morning after a battle with cancer.   “Oklahoma lost a great man today,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “Jon spent his life serving others and doing everything in his power to make communities safer. In the wake of the Oklahoma City bombing, Jon comforted the entire...Read More

April 6, 2016 News Releases General Contractor & Subcontractor Charged with Forging Invoices on Church Repairs OKLAHOMA CITY – Arrest warrants have been issued for a general contractor and a subcontractor charged with fraudulently padding an insurance claim. An investigation by the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Anti-Fraud Unit found that Lisa Loven, 50, and Jeffrey Scott, 41, filed fake invoices with the insurance company for equipment that wasn’t used.   “Anyone who thinks insurance fraud is a victimless crime is...Read More

April 4, 2016 News Releases Former Insurance Agent Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Clients Out of More than $500,000 OKLAHOMA CITY – A former insurance agent pleaded guilty today to scamming $505,126.43 from his clients. A joint investigation including the Oklahoma Insurance Department Anti-Fraud Unit led to the charges against Gary Edward Hibbing, 52, formerly of Grove.   “Fraud is something I won’t tolerate,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “It is imperative that consumers be able to trust their...Read More

March 25, 2016 News Releases Oklahoma City Man Charged with Scamming Moore Tornado Victims OKLAHOMA CITY– An Oklahoma City man is facing felony charges for scamming a Moore couple out of $3,577.53. The money was part of the insurance settlement the couple received after their home was damaged in the March 25, 2015 tornado. “We will not tolerate scam artists going after storm victims,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “It’s extremely difficult to put your life back together after a...Read More

March 15, 2016 News Releases Insurance Commissioner Doak Calls for No State Funding of His Agency OKLAHOMA CITY– Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has requested that the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) no longer receive appropriated funds.   “Right now Oklahoma is dealing with a budget crisis,” said Doak. “We certainly want to do everything we can to help with the massive shortfall. Since my office has the ability to operate on the licensing fees we collect, it only makes sense for our...Read More

March 8, 2016 News Releases New Free Tool Helps Recover More Than $500,000 for Oklahomans OKLAHOMA CITY– More than half a million dollars has been returned to Oklahomans in just under a year with the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Lost Life Policy Locator Service. The free tool helps people find a life insurance policy or annuity contract left by a deceased loved one.   “We are thrilled to see that the Lost Life Policy Locator Service is working,” Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak...Read More

March 2, 2016 News Releases National Tornado Summit Focuses on Readiness, Response, Resiliency OKLAHOMA CITY – More than 800 insurance professionals, emergency managers and meteorologists learned how to better prepare for severe weather at the 2016 National Tornado Summit. The 5th annual event wrapped up Wednesday in Oklahoma City. “It is very inspiring to witness the insurance industry, community leaders, regulators, meteorologists and emergency responders share knowledge to act in a unified effort to effectively manage...Read More

March 1, 2016 News Releases Insurance Commissioner John Doak Issues Statement on Workers' Compensation Ruling "On Friday, responding to an appeal of a denial of benefits based on a pre-existing condition by an employer providing benefits in accordance with the Oklahoma Employee Injury Benefit Act, the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Commission concluded that a part of the Act is unconstitutional. I appreciate the difficult work the Commission has performed during its first two challenging years and their dedication to our collective goal of...Read More

January 29, 2016 News Releases Insurance Department Investigation Leads to Forgery Charges Against Convicted Embezzler OKLAHOMA CITY – A Yukon man faces forgery charges after an investigation by the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Anti-Fraud Unit. Felix Herrera, 36, is accused of forging a former insurance agent’s name and license number on policy paperwork.    “Oklahomans need to be able to trust their insurance agent,” Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak said. “This man’s past criminal...Read More

January 12, 2016 News Releases Oklahoma Licenses 26 Captive Insurers in 2015 OKLAHOMA CITY – 2015 marked another strong year of growth for Oklahoma’s captive insurance industry. Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has fought for regulatory and legislative reforms in recent years to welcome this growth.   “The success of Oklahoma’s captive insurance industry is based in the value of the regulatory environment and the service that our department provides to captive...Read More

December 31, 2015 News Releases Oklahoma Insurance Department Offers Assistance to Those Impacted by Severe Weather OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department can help Oklahomans with questions about severe weather-related insurance claims. The free help is available by calling 1-800-522-0071. “Right now we know Oklahomans are still dealing with the aftermaths of blizzards, ice storms, flooding and thunderstorms,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “Oklahoma is no stranger to extreme weather but it never...Read More

November 24, 2015 News Releases Proper Insurance Will Prevent Winter Weather Despair OKLAHOMA CITY– Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is encouraging Oklahomans to prepare for the winter weather season as weather forecasters warn about the possibility of freezing rain and flooding over the holiday weekend.   “It’s important to understand what is and isn’t covered by your home and auto insurance,” Commissioner Doak said. “Winter stormdamage can be financially...Read More

November 6, 2015 News Releases Free Medicare Open Enrollment Help Offered for 30 More Days Medicare beneficiaries have 30 days to review and change their Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans for 2016. Last year during Open Enrollment, the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) and their partner agencies helped beneficiaries save an average of $1,900 on their Part D prescription drug plan.   “Medicare-related plans can change yearly. That’s why it’s important...Read More

October 20, 2015 News Releases Commissioner Doak Requires Insurers to Clarify Earthquake Coverage OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak today asked property and casualty insurers to send each policyholder a clarifying notice of earthquake coverage. The requirement is in response to a growing number of questions about earthquake insurance. “Insurance is complicated,” said Doak. “We know that most people don’t read their policies. Even if they do, the language can be tough to...Read More

October 2, 2015 News Releases Commissioner Doak Urges Oklahomans to Consider Impact-Resistant Shingles OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is encouraging homeowners to consider purchasing impact-resistant shingles. The investment could lead to savings on their home insurance premium.   “With the severe weather we experience here in Oklahoma, roofs take a beating,” said Doak. “Studies have shown that many impact-resistant shingles can withstand a storm with golf-ball sized hail...Read More

September 24, 2015 News Releases Workers’ Compensation Forums Scheduled in Oklahoma City and Tulsa OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department and the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) will host two important events on workers’ compensation. The 2015 State Advisory Forum will be held Oct. 21 in Oklahoma City. A second forum will be held in Tulsa on Oct. 22.   “It is important that the workers’ compensation community stay up-to-date,” Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak...Read More

September 8, 2015 News Releases Uninsured Driver Study to Look at Cause and Solution OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department and lawmakers are taking a needed step to solving our state’s uninsured driver problem. An interim study on the issue will be held tomorrow at the State Capitol.   “Oklahoma has the highest percentage of uninsured motorists in the country,” Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak said. “Every driver in this state is affected by paying higher...Read More

September 3, 2015 News Releases Workers’ Compensation Loss Costs Fall for Third Straight Year OKLAHOMA CITY – Workers’ compensation rates in Oklahoma are expected to drop in 2016. Today the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) filed an overall loss cost decrease of 14.8 percent. This is the third straight year rates have decreased.   “Since my department’s push for workers’ compensation reform, we’re seeing this positive trend,” Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner...Read More

August 28, 2015 News Releases Mental Health Services are Covered for Oklahomans with Health Insurance OKLAHOMA CITY – After the tragic death of Labor Commissioner Mark Costello, Oklahomans may have questions about mental health insurance coverage. The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) stands ready to educate consumers who may not understand their policy. “Mark was first and foremost a leader. Despite his position as Labor Commissioner, Mark was passionate about a number of reforms he believed would transform our state...Read More

August 20, 2015 News Releases Oklahomans Will Be Better Served After National Earthquake Forum OKLAHOMA CITY – Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is better prepared to protect Oklahomans after hosting a national earthquake forum. The Center for Insurance Policy and Research summer event, All Things Earthquake, was held last Friday in Chicago.   “Several experts in the earthquake field presented their findings at the event,” Commissioner Doak said. “Scientific evidence and the global insurance...Read More

August 13, 2015 News Releases OID Investigation Leads to Arrest of Assault, Robbery Suspect OKLAHOMA CITY – A Tulsa man suspected of assaulting an insurance adjuster and filing a bogus insurance claim was arrested Thursday. The adjuster was attacked after questioning an insurance claim filed by Prentice E. Ponds II, 42. “I am extremely relieved this dangerous criminal is off the streets,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “His actions were despicable. We regulate more than 58,000...Read More

August 12, 2015 News Releases Commissioner Doak to Host National Meeting on Earthquake Insurance OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak will host and moderate a national forum about earthquake insurance. The Center for Insurance Policy and Research (CIPR) summer event, All Things Earthquake, will take place Friday in Chicago.                    “The importance of earthquake insurance is growing in Oklahoma...Read More

August 10, 2015 News Releases Wetumka Funeral Home Director Sentenced for Embezzlement OKLAHOMA CITY – A Hughes County funeral home director has been sentenced for embezzling more than $125,000 from 28 families. An investigation by the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Anti-Fraud Unit led to the charges against Donald Williamson, 57, of Wetumka.   “I’m proud of our Anti-Fraud Unit for uncovering this crime,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “If they hadn’t...Read More

July 30, 2015 News Releases Commissioner Doak Thankful to Oklahoma’s Congressional Delegation OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has expressed his gratitude to Oklahoma’s federal legislators for supporting bills to protect small businesses. The senators and representatives are all co-sponsoring bills to amend the Affordable Care Act (ACA).   “I am thankful that our Congressional delegation has chosen to take the lead on this incredibly important issue,” said Doak....Read More

July 10, 2015 News Releases Commissioner Doak Commends Decision to Extend Insure Oklahoma Funding OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak applauds the funding extension of Insure Oklahoma through 2016. The program was created in 2005 to help small businesses offer health insurance to their employees.                 “Insure Oklahoma is one of the first programs of its kind in the nation,” Commissioner Doak said....Read More

July 1, 2015 News Releases Filing Deadline Extended for Oklahoma Flood Claims OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahomans with flood damage will have extra time to file their insurance claim. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has given National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policyholders an extra 180 days to file a claim.   “This extra time to file a claim will be beneficial for all those who suffered damage,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “This deadline...Read More

June 17, 2015 News Releases Deadline Looming for Flood Insurance Claims OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahomans with flood insurance who have damage from the recent storms are running out of time to file a claim. A federal disaster was declared for 20 Oklahoma counties for the storms from May 5 to June 4. All claims must be filed within 60 days of the flooding.   “We want to make sure everyone who has damage is on the road to recovery,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak....Read More

May 12, 2015 News Releases New Law Protects Storm Victims OKLAHOMA CITY – A new law requested by Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak aims to protect Oklahoma storm victims. Senate Bill 439, signed by Gov. Mary Fallin Monday, ensures transparency and accountability in the insurance adjusting process.   “I am proud that Gov. Fallin and the Oklahoma Legislature saw the importance of this bill,” said Doak. “After a natural disaster, storm survivors are vulnerable....Read More

April 28, 2015 News Releases Free Events Teach Seniors How to Avoid Scams OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Medicare Assistance Program is hosting a series of free events to help seniors fight fraud. The Senior Fraud Conferences will be held in nine cities from May to July.   “Crooks target seniors because they think they’re an easy target,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “The scams have gotten more sophisticated, with...Read More

April 28, 2015 News Releases Commissioner Doak Applauds Supreme Court Decision in Oklahoma Option OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has released the following statement in regard to the Oklahoma Supreme Court’s decision to deny the application to assume original jurisdiction in the recent case challenging the constitutionality of the Oklahoma Option.   “The Oklahoma Supreme Court has decided against becoming embroiled in the latest attack on our state’s innovative...Read More

April 14, 2015 News Releases Gordon Amini Named OID General Counsel OKLAHOMA CITY - Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has named Gordon Amini as General Counsel of the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID). Amini held the same title when he previously worked at the Department in 1981.   “Gordon’s wealth of insurance industry and legal experience makes him a key asset to the Oklahoma Insurance Department,” said Doak. “His knowledge of the state statutes,...Read More

April 13, 2015 News Releases OID to Co-Host Tax Day Shred Event OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahomans are urged to protect themselves from identity theft by shredding important documents at a free event. The Tax Day shredding event will be held April 15 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at KJRH-TV, located at 3701 S. Peoria in Tulsa. The Oklahoma Insurance Department is co-hosting the event with AARP and KJRH-TV.   “Identity theft is a growing problem,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D....Read More

March 26, 2015 News Releases More Than 1,100 Insured Homes Damaged in Oklahoma Tornadoes & Storms Commissioner John D. Doak wants to make sure tornado survivors get the help they need. More than 1,100 homeowners insurance claims have already been filed in relation to Wednesday’s severe weather across the state.   “Tornadoes are a devastating act of Mother Nature that Oklahomans are all too familiar with. After seeing the damage in Sand Springs and Moore, I know it will take a while for these families to...Read More

March 10, 2015 News Releases Wetumka Funeral Home Director Faces Felonies KLAHOMA CITY – A Hughes County funeral home director turned himself after an investigation by the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Anti-Fraud Unit. Donald Williamson is accused of embezzling almost $75,000 from 28 families who set up prepaid funeral trusts. “We take crimes like this very seriously,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “People are very vulnerable when it comes to funeral...Read More

March 3, 2015 News Releases Notice Issued to Protect Oklahomans Who Have Earthquake Insurance OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department is taking a proactive step to protect Oklahomans who buy earthquake insurance. Today the Department released a bulletin to property and casualty insurance companies to address important issues surrounding earthquake insurance.   “We want to make sure everyone is clear on earthquake insurance,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “Oklahomans...Read More

February 20, 2015 News Releases Insurance Professionals Getting Educated on Earthquakes OKLAHOMA CITY – State insurance professionals are embracing a new rule aimed at helping Oklahomans make the right decision about earthquake insurance. More than 2,500 property insurance agents, customer service representatives and adjusters have completed a continuing education course on earthquake insurance.   Because earthquakes are becoming more prevalent in Oklahoma, Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak tasked the...Read More

February 17, 2015 News Releases Innovative Collaboration Coming to 2015 National Tornado Summit OKLAHOMA CITY – One week from today insurance industry leaders, emergency managers and weather experts will converge on Oklahoma City for the 4thannual National Tornado Summit. They will share critical information to help one another prepare for disasters. "We’re no strangers to the unexpected here in Oklahoma,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “We have years of experience handling disasters....Read More

February 4, 2015 News Releases New Service Aims to Help Oklahomans Find Lost Life Insurance Money OKLAHOMA CITY – Starting today, Oklahomans can use a new tool from the Oklahoma Insurance Department to find insurance money they may be owed using the Lost Life Policy Locator Service.     The Lost Life Policy Locator Service will help Oklahomans find a life insurance policy or annuity contract left by a deceased loved one. Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak asked his staff to find a way to help...Read More

January 30, 2015 News Releases Oklahoma Licenses 37 Captive Insurers During 2014 OKLAHOMA CITY– New captive insurance regulation is providing a boost to Oklahoma’s economy. During the past two years, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak and his administration have taken steps to foster a business friendly environment for the captive industry and streamline Oklahoma’s procedures for licensure.    Oklahoma now has 47 licensed captives, with 37 new licenses issued last year....Read More

January 29, 2015 News Releases Proposed Bill Close to Commissioner’s Heart OKLAHOMA CITY – Sudden Cardiac Arrest can strike at any time and at any age. A new bill supported by Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak hopes to educate Oklahomans about this condition.   Doak is supporting Michael Morris, a father who lost his teenage son to Sudden Cardiac Arrest. Morris hopes legislative proposals will help educate other parents and save lives. Michael’s son, Chase, died suddenly in 2013....Read More

January 12, 2015 News Releases Commissioner Doak Pledges to Continue Educating and Protecting Oklahomans During Second Term OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has been sworn into office for his second term. Today’s inauguration ceremony marked a continued effort to serve and protect Oklahoma citizens for the next four years for Doak.    “I am humbled and honored that voters in our state are allowing me to serve another term,” said Doak. “Oklahomans spoke loud and clear when they...Read More

December 15, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Completes Fourth Annual 77-County Tour OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahomans across the state received vital insurance information thanks to Commissioner John D. Doak’s fourth annual 77-County Tour.  Commissioner Doak wrapped up the 2014 tour Thursday with stops in Tillman, Jefferson and Cotton counties.   “Meeting with consumers in their hometowns is extremely important,” said Doak. “We serve all of Oklahoma, not just the Oklahoma City and...Read More

December 2, 2014 News Releases Seniors Running Out of Time to Switch Medicare Plans, Save Money OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahomans on Medicare could save thousands by reviewing their Part D prescription drug plan or Medicare Advantage plan. The deadline for switching plans is Dec. 7.   “Time is running out to compare plans,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “I encourage seniors to call our Medicare Assistance Program for a free review that could lead to improved coverage, significant...Read More

October 30, 2014 News Releases Improved Fire Protection Rating Could Reduce Insurance Premiums for Some Cleveland County Homeowners OKLAHOMA CITY– Homeowners in eastern Cleveland County could soon pay less for property insurance. The potential savings comes from the improvement of the community’s Public Protection Classification (PPC).    “This is a significant achievement for the Cedar County Fire Protection District,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak.  “Saving Oklahomans money is one reason we work...Read More

October 16, 2014 News Releases Insurance Department Participates in Central U.S. ShakeOut Earthquake Drill OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahomans can learn how to protect themselves from earthquakes by holding a drill. The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) did so Thursday during the Great Central U.S. ShakeOut.   “I think we’ve all come to realize that earthquakes are a part of life here in Oklahoma,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “That’s why families and businesses need to have a plan and...Read More

October 14, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Encourages Oklahomans to Use Stop-Smoking Services OKLAHOMA CITY – Smokers who want to quit could get free help to kick the habit. Health insurance companies are now required to cover stop smoking services.   “Smoking kills,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “We know that quitting is difficult, but help is available and it could save your life.”   Federal agencies recently clarified a requirement that health insurance...Read More

October 8, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Provides Greater Public Access to Insurance Company Rate Filings OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahomans can learn more about insurance company filings by using a new online tool. The website has filings for property, casualty, life and health insurance products.   “My department is committed to giving consumers the information they need to make the right decisions for their families,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “This new service demonstrates our dedication to...Read More

October 7, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Adopts Emergency Rules for Navigators OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahomans purchasing health insurance on the federal exchange will be better protected by a new set of emergency rules. The rules were submitted by Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak and approved by Gov. Mary Fallin. The rules ensure that all registered navigators are properly trained and obeying Oklahoma laws.    “Our purpose here is to protect consumers,” said Doak. “The...Read More

September 30, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Applauds Oklahoma’s Win Challenging ACA Implementation OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak released the following statement about the ruling announced today deciding the state’s lawsuit on the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Oklahoma was the first state to challenge the legality of an IRS rule that resulted in the payout of billions of dollars in illegal subsidies. “Today's ruling from Judge White in the Eastern District is a big...Read More

September 30, 2014 News Releases Senior Summits to Help Consumers Prepare for Medicare Open Enrollment OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) is hosting free statewide events to help seniors save time and money during the Medicare Open Enrollment period, Oct. 15-Dec. 7. “We host Senior Summits each year to help Oklahoma’s Medicare beneficiaries learn more about their enrollment options,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “We want seniors...Read More

September 24, 2014 News Releases Former Insurance Agent Arrested after OID Investigation OKLAHOMA CITY – An investigation by the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Anti-Fraud Unit has led to the arrest of former insurance agent Nathan Sullivan, Jr., 47. Sullivan is accused of defrauding a Weatherford woman out of more than $30,000 and leaving her with a substantial tax burden.    “Cases like this are extremely upsetting,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “The...Read More

September 9, 2014 News Releases Former Insurance Agent Sentenced for Selling Insurance without a License OKLAHOMA CITY – A former insurance agent has received a five-year suspended sentence and a $2,500 fine for selling insurance without a license. Preston Chadwick Henson, 44, was convicted of the felony after entering a no contest plea in Kingfisher County. “One of our goals is to protect consumers and we strive to meet that goal every day,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “Our Anti-Fraud...Read More

September 4, 2014 News Releases Oklahoma a Finalist for U.S. Captive Domicile of the Year OKLAHOMA CITY - Oklahoma has been named a finalist for the U.S. Captive Domicile of the Year award presented by Captive Review, an industry trade magazine. “This is the result of many, many hours of hard work by numerous individuals at the Oklahoma Insurance Department,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “We knew updating the state’s captive law would allow the market to grow, but we had no...Read More

September 3, 2014 News Releases Health Insurers Submit Exchange Rates for 2015 OKLAHOMA CITY –Oklahomans shopping for individual health insurance policies through the federal exchange will be able to choose from six different companies offering multiple plans. Rate renewals for 2015 policies range from a decrease of 9.1 percent to an increase of 29 percent. The actual rate for an individual will depend on several factors, including age, geographical location and tobacco use.   “In the second year...Read More

September 2, 2014 News Releases Workers’ Compensation Loss Costs to Fall for Second Straight Year OKLAHOMA CITY –For the second straight year, workers’ compensation loss costs used by insurers to determine rates for employers will show an overall decrease. The National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) has filed an overall loss cost level decrease of 7.8 percent, bringing the total two-year decrease to 22.4 percent.   “This is great news for Oklahoma’s economy,” said Oklahoma Insurance...Read More

August 27, 2014 News Releases Governor Fallin and Commissioner Doak Partner on Earthquake Insurance Education OKLAHOMA CITY – Gov. Mary Fallin and Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak recently worked together to ensure that Oklahoma consumers receive the most accurate information possible when acquiring earthquake insurance. Gov. Fallin approved an emergency rule adopted by Commissioner Doak to require all licensed producers and adjusters with the property line of authority to complete one hour of continuing education on the topic of...Read More

August 14, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Urges College Students to Get Smart about Insurance OKLAHOMA CITY– Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is urging college students to get smart about insurance before setting foot on campus.   “Insurance can be complicated and daunting to navigate, especially for young people beginning to set out on their own by going to college,” said Doak. “With these tips and a little research, college students can be prepared for the unexpected and save a lot of...Read More

August 11, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Praises OID Efforts to Return 12-Year-Old Check to Consumer OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is reminding consumers that the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is here to help. A recent example of the Department’s efforts to help consumers involved a reissuance of an insurance check to a consumer for an auto accident that occurred more than 12 years ago.   “This particular story is a significant victory, but it’s just one example of how...Read More

August 8, 2014 News Releases Former Insurance Agent Sentenced for Embezzlement after OID Investigation OKLAHOMA CITY – A former insurance agent in Creek County has been sentenced to 120 days in jail for embezzling premium payments from elderly clients. Donna Laverne Parrick, 50, pleaded guilty to six counts of embezzlement and also received a ten-year deferred sentence for each count. The punishment stems from a 2012 investigation by the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID).   “One of our top priorities is protecting...Read More

August 6, 2014 News Releases A New Baby Changes Everything, Including Insurance Needs OKLAHOMA CITY– Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is recommending consumers review their insurance policies before and after welcoming a new addition to the family.   “A new baby brings so many wonderful, exciting changes to your life and you have to be prepared to protect your growing family,” said Doak. “That’s why it’s important to talk to your agent or broker to ensure that your...Read More

July 24, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Recommends an Insurance Review Before the Big Move OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is urging consumers to review their insurance policies before they move.    “The warm weather, long days and increase in free time makes summer the busiest season for relocation,” said Doak. “According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, more than 35 million Americans will move this year. While relocation can be stressful, making sure...Read More

July 23, 2014 News Releases Insurance Department Mourns Loss of IIAO Past President Bud Breeding OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak issued the following statement about the loss of Independent Insurance Agents of Oklahoma (IIAO) Past President Bud Breeding who died July 19 at the age of 92.   “We mourn the loss of Bud and extend our condolences to his family and friends. Our industry owes a great deal to Bud and I have the highest level of respect for him. In addition to his...Read More

July 22, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Praises Court Decision that Deals Major Blow to Obamacare OKLAHOMA CITY - Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is applauding a D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals decision to strike down an IRS rule regarding subsidies on the federal exchange. The ruling could bolster a 2011 lawsuit filed by Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt.   “The law is unambiguous,” said Doak. “If its supporters had actually read it before they voted for it they would have seen that the...Read More

July 16, 2014 News Releases OID Recovers More Than $2 Million for Oklahoma Consumers So Far in 2014 OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Consumer Assistance Division has recovered $2,180,170 for Oklahoma consumers in the first half of 2014. Between Jan. 1 and June 30, the Consumer Assistance Division answered 13,127 phone calls, responded to over 300 emails and opened 1,788 files.   “Here at the Oklahoma Insurance Department, our goal is to assist and educate consumers,” said Oklahoma...Read More

July 3, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Says Federal Decision Will Hurt Oklahoma’s Rural Fire Departments OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doaksays rural fire departments in Oklahoma will be devastated by an agreement between the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to no longer allow unused DoD vehicles to be retrofitted and used by rural fire departments.   “This will have a major impact on Oklahoma’s rural fire departments,” said Doak. “Many...Read More

June 30, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Says Supreme Court Decision a Win for Founding Fathers OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is applauding the United States Supreme Court ruling that closely-held, private companies cannot be forced to offer insurance coverage for birth control methods they equate with abortion. The ruling is the final decision in a suit filed by Oklahoma-based Hobby Lobby Stores, Inc. in September 2012.   “Exactly what was supposed to happen today did and religious...Read More

June 18, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Welcomes Gordon Amini to OID OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is welcoming Gordon Amini’s return to the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) as Senior Attorney. Amini was previously employed at OID from 1977-1981 and brings 37 years of legal and insurance industry experience to the Department.  “I personally feel it’s tremendous when individuals like Mr. Amini believe in Oklahoma being open for business and...Read More

June 17, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak to Attend Town Hall Meeting about Earthquake Swarms OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has announced plans to attend a town hall meeting about the recent earthquake swarms in central Oklahoma. “This is a very important issue,” said Doak. “I commend Rep. Moore and Rep. Murphey for putting this together and I was happy to accept their invitation to take part. During the meeting, my staff and I will be happy to answer any questions...Read More

June 10, 2014 News Releases New Jobs Coming to Oklahoma after Commissioner Doak Approves Insurer’s Re-Domestication OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has approved the re-domestication of Individual Assurance Company, Life, Accident and Health (IAC) from Missouri to Oklahoma. IAC President and CEO Jim Harlin said he plans to bring new business and jobs to the state within the next year.   “We consider this great news for the insurance industry in our state and are thrilled that...Read More

June 2, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Hosts Consumer Assistance Event for Tornado Survivors OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has announced plans to hold a consumer assistance event for tornado survivors with unresolved insurance issues. The forum will take place in the lecture hall at Westmoore High School, 12613 S. Western Ave., Oklahoma City, on June 3 at 6:00 p.m.   “While a majority of those affected by last year’s storms have settled their insurance claims, some...Read More

May 30, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Congratulates Haw Creek Fire Department for Improving ISO Classification OKLAHOMA CITY– Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is congratulating the Haw Creek Fire Department in LeFlore County for significantly improving its Public Protection Classification (PPC) from Class 9 to Class 6 effective June 1.   “PPC upgrades are exactly why we established our Insurance Services Office (ISO) program,” said Doak. “By working with fire departments and helping communities identify...Read More

May 28, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Announces Efficient Operations Lead to Return of $22.5 Million OID was Authorized OKLAHOMA CITY – During Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak’s first term, the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) has been able to return $22.5 million in unspent funds to the state Legislature to help fill holes in the state budget.   “Our commitment to being fiscally responsible allowed us to build up a healthy savings,” said Doak. “We are happy to be able to use some of that savings to help...Read More

May 20, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Remembers Tornado Victims, Plans Consumer Assistance Event for Survivors OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak paid tribute to the victims of the Moore tornado Tuesday at the Moore Community Remembrance Ceremony.   “We lost mothers, fathers, children and friends on that tragic day,” said Doak. “We will continue to honor their lives by rebuilding our communities even stronger and making sure we are better prepared for the next disaster.”  ...Read More

May 19, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Warns Schools About Unregulated Interlocal Agreements OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is urging school districts insured under an interlocal agreement and those considering such coverage to first review the provider’s financial documents at http://www.ok.gov/oid/Interlocals.html .    “School leaders need to know that these types of arrangements are not regulated and are not backed by a guaranty fund,” said Oklahoma Insurance...Read More

May 14, 2014 News Releases Report: Each Marketplace Enrollee from Oklahoma Cost Taxpayers $1,095 OKLAHOMA CITY –A new report shows that each Oklahoma enrollee in the federal marketplace cost taxpayers an average of $1,095 and that overall spending on the exchange has cost taxpayers nearly $7.4 billion.   “Once again, we are face-to-face with the unacceptable situation that is Obamacare. Not only are the ACA health care plans expensive and unpopular, but they are also costing Oklahoma taxpayers a staggering...Read More

May 9, 2014 News Releases Oklahoma Insurance Agent Pleads Guilty to Exploitation of the Elderly OKLAHOMA CITY – A Tulsa insurance agent has pleaded guilty to exploitation of the elderly for defrauding a Muskogee couple out of nearly $300,000. Presley Keith Dennis was arrested in January after an investigation by the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Anti-Fraud Unit.  “We take crimes like this very seriously,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “Licensed insurance agents should protect...Read More

May 7, 2014 News Releases Oklahoma Insurance Department to Teach Seniors How to Fight Fraud OKLAHOMA CITY - It’s a crime that requires no guns. More often than not it goes unnoticed until after the fact. The victims are unwitting senior citizens duped out of billions every year. Senior fraud has become one of the most profitable illegal activities in the country, but the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) is hosting a series of conferences to help seniors avoid getting swindled.  ...Read More

May 5, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak: Wildfires Emphasize Need for Home Inventory OKLAHOMA CITY– In light of the wildfires damaging homes and property across the state, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is urging Oklahomans to complete a home inventory before it’s too late.   “After a disaster, an inventory helps provide proof of personal property loss,” said Doak. “When you file a claim, your insurance company will want an itemized list of everything that was damaged....Read More

April 30, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Hosts Inaugural Captive Conference OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department, with the goal of educating businesses about the benefits of captives and fostering growth in Oklahoma, hosted the first annual Captive Conference Wednesday at the Oklahoma History Center.   “Oklahoma is open for business,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak, “What better way to show it than to reach out to the industry directly and invite...Read More

April 29, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Hosts Third Annual Domestic Conference OKLAHOMA CITY– Representatives from dozens of the state’s domestic insurance companies learned about emerging industry trends, changes to Oklahoma’s workers’ compensation system, the growing federal influence in insurance regulation and more at the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Domestic Conference.    “I think it is extremely important to hold this annual event,” said Oklahoma...Read More

April 7, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Promotes National Retirement Planning Week OKLAHOMA CITY –The Insured Retirement Institute (IRI) released a new report today showing Baby Boomers’ confidence in their financial preparations for retirement has been steadily dropping since 2011. National Retirement Planning Week®, April 7-11, is a national effort to help consumers focus on their financial needs in retirement.    “Preparing for and financing one’s retirement can be daunting...Read More

April 2, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Praises Rep. Bridenstine’s Leadership after U.S. House Passes Weather Forecasting OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is applauding the passage of HR 2413 , the Weather Forecasting Improvement Act of 2014, sponsored by Rep. Jim Bridenstine.  The bill, directing the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to prioritize weather-related activities, will enable greater technology development to protect people and property from severe weather.  “I...Read More

March 26, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Proposes NAIC Invest in Shared Emergency Response Vehicles OKLAHOMA CITY - Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak plans to ask the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) to invest in Shared Emergency Response Vehicles (SERVEs) for education and disaster response.   “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,” said Doak....Read More

March 25, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak to Host Insurance Day at Oklahoma State Capitol OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has invited Oklahoma consumers to attend Insurance Day at the state Capitol. The event is set for April 3 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on the 4 th floor rotunda.  “This is a great opportunity for Oklahomans to learn more about the insurance options available to them,” said Doak. “Our knowledgeable staff can discuss the benefits of...Read More

March 21, 2014 News Releases Oklahoma Insurance Department to Allow Renewal of Non-ACA Compliant Policies OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak announced Friday that health insurers may continue to renew policies not meeting Affordable Care Act (ACA) requirements through 2016. “The continued twists and turns related to Obamacare confuses consumers and frustrates businesses,” said Doak. “The extension is not a universal remedy for concerns about access and affordability. This change...Read More

March 10, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Congratulates New IIAO President, Thanks Outgoing CEO OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak issued the following statementabout Denise Johnson being named President and CEO of the Independent Insurance Agents of Oklahoma effective Sept. 1.   “Denise is an excellent choice for this position. Her career with the ECI Agency in Piedmont and her background as IIAO’s first chairwoman gives her a unique insight into the issues facing Oklahoma agents....Read More

March 6, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak: Obama Rearranges Chairs on the Titanic of Healthcare OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak released the following statement about the Obama Administration’s announcement yesterday regarding policy extensions and the responsibilities of state insurance regulators.   “Here in Oklahoma, we like to say that if you don’t like the weather, just wait a day and it will change. I would say the same about Obamacare: if you don’t...Read More

February 20, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Supports Rep. Bridenstine’s Weather Forecasting Improvement Act OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is encouraging support for House Resolution 2413, which would establish the Tornado Warning Extension Program. The resolution is aimed at funding a research program within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to extend the lead time for tornado warnings beyond one hour.  “Protection of life and property is of utmost importance...Read More

February 12, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Criticizes Shifting Obamacare Requirements OKLAHOMA CITY – Yet another delay announced for the Affordable Care Act (ACA) earlier this week adds to health insurance industry confusion according to Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. The federal administration is again delaying a key requirement of the health law by allowing employers with fewer than 100 employees to avoid providing health insurance coverage until 2016.   “It’s Groundhog’s...Read More

February 4, 2014 News Releases New Date for Tax Tips for Tornado Survivors Forum For Immediate Release: February 4, 2014   WHAT:                      Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is hosting a consumer assistance event tohelp tornado survivors with their insurance claims and inform them of important tax information, including possible deductions.  ...Read More

February 4, 2014 News Releases Tax Tips for Tornado Survivors Forum in Moore Postponed OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department’s “Tax Tips for Tornado Survivors” consumer forum scheduled for Tuesday evening has been postponed due to inclement weather. The forum will be rescheduled at a later date. “While we feel that the information scheduled to be presented this evening is very important for Oklahoma tornado victims, the safety of our residents is equally as important,” said...Read More

January 23, 2014 News Releases Commissioner Doak Hosts Forum to Address Tornado Claims & Tax Issues OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is offering tornado survivors the opportunity to get help with their insurance claim and learn what tax deductions they may be eligible for during a Feb. 4 forum in Moore. The forum will take place at 6:30 p.m. in Rooms A & B of the Moore Public Library, 225 S. Howard Ave. “We are committed to the long-term recovery efforts happening across the state,” said...Read More

January 16, 2014 News Releases Oklahoma Insurance Agent Arrested for Exploitation of the Elderly   OKLAHOMA CITY – An investigation by the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Anti-Fraud Unit has led to the arrest of Tulsa insurance agent Presley Keith Dennis. He is accused of defrauding a Muskogee couple out of nearly $300,000.   “A crime like this is inexcusable,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “As the victims’ longtime friend and agent, they trusted Mr. Dennis....Read More

December 23, 2013 News Releases Heavy Ice Can Pose Problems for Homeowners OKLAHOMA CITY - Mother Nature delivered a significant ice storm just in time for the holidays and the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is warning residents to not take the weight of ice, snow or sleet lightly.     “Oklahoma is no stranger to extreme weather,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “We have witnessed the damage thick layers of ice can cause.” The...Read More

December 16, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Applauds Pro-Jobs Decision on Workers’ Compensation Law about the Oklahoma Supreme Court ruling handed down today, rejecting a constitutional challenge to the new workers’ compensation law.   “The ruling today is great news for economic development and jobs in the state of Oklahoma. Oklahoma currently has one of the highest average costs of workers’ compensation benefits in the nation, which has had an enormous impact on our state economy. The new law has already...Read More

December 5, 2013 News Releases Vendor Selected for Oklahoma Temporary Motorist Liability Plan                  Coverage Comes at No Cost to Taxpayers                  OKLAHOMA CITY – The state of Oklahoma has chosen Red Rock Insurance Company, an Oklahoma-based business, to provide liability coverage for offenders whose license plates were seized for failure to carry state-mandated auto insurance. House Bill 1792, signed...Read More

December 4, 2013 News Releases Oklahoma Captive Law Expected to Boost State’s Economy OKLAHOMA CITY - A new insurance law is expected to boost the Oklahoma economy.      HB 1108, spearheaded by Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak, makes Oklahoma more attractive as a home state to captive insurance companies. Captive insurance companies are an arrangement used by many large to medium-sized businesses to self-insure their own risk. Several Oklahoma businesses own captives, but...Read More

November 26, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak to Participate in Thanksgiving Ride-Along with OHP Commissioner Doak to Participate in Thanksgiving Ride-Along with OHP WHAT:                       Commissioner Doak will take part in an OHP ride-along to raise awareness of Oklahoma’s high number of uninsured motorists. He will be available for media questions at the conclusion of the ride-along. WHO:...Read More

November 21, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Determines “Obamacare Fix” Isn’t OK in Oklahoma OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has determined that President Obama’s administrative fix to the Affordable Care Act isn’t needed in Oklahoma because consumers in both the individual and small group health insurance markets were offered early policy renewals.   “Thankfully, we worked with the insurance industry and stayed ahead of the curve on this latest...Read More

November 20, 2013 News Releases Insurance Department Mourns Loss of Former Assistant Commissioner Steve Garrett OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department is mourning the loss of former Chief Examiner and Assistant Commissioner, Stephen P. Garrett, 69, who died Monday after a brief hospitalization.   “I have the highest level of admiration for Steve, working with him, not only while in college, but also for many years as an insurance professional,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “He...Read More

November 14, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Says Obama’s “Fix” is Another Failure OKLAHOMA CITY – The number of health insurance policies canceled in Oklahoma as a result of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has been minimized due to the efforts of Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak.     “Here in Oklahoma, my office has always focused on the consumer,” said Doak. “We recognized the possibility of cancellations early on and worked with the state’s largest health insurance...Read More

November 8, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Completes Third Annual 77-County Tour OKLAHOMA CITY – Recent trips to Craig, Nowata and Muskogee Counties mark the end of Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak’s annual 77-County Tour. This is the third consecutive year for the statewide visits.   “The tour is a demonstration of a pledge I made when I was first elected to support the entire state of Oklahoma,” said Doak. “We are determined to better understand...Read More

November 7, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Confirms the Legality of Electronic Proofs of Insurance OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has issued a bulletin to property and casualty insurers confirming that Oklahoma law allows them to issue security verification forms in electronic format as well as in paper format. “We live in a digital world where you can do just about anything on your smartphone or tablet,” said Doak. “More and more insurance companies are offering electronic...Read More

October 29, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Encourages Homeowners to Purchase Earthquake Insurance OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is encouraging Oklahomans to purchase earthquake insurance after a new report predicts continued seismic activity in the central part of the state. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) said central Oklahoma has experienced more than 200 magnitude 3.0 or greater earthquakes since January 2009.   “Looking into earthquake insurance after your home or...Read More

October 21, 2013 News Releases Free Medicare Open Enrollment Counseling Could Help Seniors Save Money Opening of the Health Insurance Marketplace Causes Confusion OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) wants to help senior adults with the Medicare open enrollment process and clear up any confusion related to the Health Insurance Marketplace. The 626,000 Oklahomans on Medicare should not look for coverage on the Marketplace. They also need to know that it’s illegal for...Read More

October 10, 2013 News Releases OID Investigation Leads to 12 Criminal Charges Against Former Agent OKLAHOMA CITY – A former Tulsa insurance agent with a prior conviction of embezzlement has now been charged with 11 counts of obtaining money by false pretense and one count of violation of the Oklahoma Producer License Act. Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) investigators found that Cheryl Salmon, 57, continued to act as an insurance agent after her license was revoked and again collected premium payments and deposited them into her...Read More

October 8, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Hosts Consumer Insurance Forum in Moore OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahomans affected by the May tornado outbreak have another opportunity to receive assistance with insurance-related concerns during a consumer forum Oct. 14 in Moore. The forum will take place at 6:30 p.m. in Room A of the Moore Public Library, 225 S. Howard Ave. “We remain committed to Oklahomans impacted by the devastating tornadoes this past spring and will continue to reach out and provide assistance...Read More

September 26, 2013 News Releases Safety Checkpoint Nets 17 Citations for Driving Without Insurance OKLAHOMA CITY – Members of the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Anti-Fraud Unit and deputies with the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office wrote 17 citations for driving without auto insurance Saturday in Tulsa. Fourteen of the uninsured vehicles were towed during the safety checkpoint. The crackdown was the result of an ongoing partnership between the Oklahoma Insurance Department and the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office....Read More

September 25, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Releases Statement About Obamacare Costs OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak released the following statement about the health insurance costs report issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “This is nothing but smoke and mirrors from the Obama administration,” said Doak. “Facts are facts. Rates are going up in Oklahoma. The HHS report is extremely misleading. Saying that our rates are less than the...Read More

September 23, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Hosts First Oklahoma Captive Insurance Advisory Board Meeting OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has created a Captive Insurance Advisory Board to attract more businesses to Oklahoma. The establishment of the board follows the passage of HB1108, which reformed Oklahoma’s captive law. A captive is an insurance company that is created and wholly owned by one or more non-insurance companies to insure the risks of its owner or owners.   “HB1108 was...Read More

September 19, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Voices Support for Oklahoma Wesleyan University Lawsuit Against Obamacare Mandate OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak issued the following statement about Oklahoma Wesleyan University’s lawsuit against the United States Department of Health and Human Services for requiring the evangelical Christian university to pay for abortion-inducing drugs.   “This lawsuit has my full support. Like Oklahoma Wesleyan University and its courageous president, Dr. Everett Piper, I...Read More

September 10, 2013 News Releases Obamacare Causes Oklahoma Health Insurance Rates to Skyrocket OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak said Tuesday that Oklahomans should prepare to pay more for health insurance in the federally facilitated marketplace mandated by the Affordable Care Act (ACA). “Our fears have been confirmed,” said Doak. “For some consumers, the cost of health insurance will increase significantly. This is more proof that ObamaCare will hurt Oklahoma families and...Read More

September 6, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Establishes Funeral Home Advisory Board OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak held the first meeting of the newly formed Funeral Home Advisory Board on Thursday. The board is designed to protect Oklahomans from fraud while planning a funeral.   The Oklahoma Insurance Department issues prepaid funeral benefit permits to funeral providers. The prepaid funeral contract is then funded through a trust or an insurance product. While the...Read More

September 5, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Receives Double Digit Decrease for Oklahoma Workers Compensation Loss Costs OKLAHOMA CITY – An annual filing most insurance carriers will use to develop rates for workers’ compensation insurance shows a dramatic decrease in loss costs, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak announced today. The overall loss cost decrease of 14.6 percent takes effect Jan. 1.   “This is fantastic news for Oklahoma businesses,” said Doak. “Reducing workers compensation costs by enticing...Read More

August 30, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Tours Stephenson Cancer Center OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak learned about the lifesaving treatments offered at the Stephenson Cancer Center at the University of Oklahoma on Friday. Hospital administrators invited Doak to tour the facility to promote a collaborative effort to improve health care for Oklahomans. “The Stephenson Cancer Center is an incredible facility,” said Doak. “The work they do there is...Read More

August 19, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Declares Recovery Roundup Huge Success OKLAHOMA CITY – Many storm survivors are a step closer to rebuilding their lives after attending the Recovery Roundup hosted by the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID). The consumer assistance event, held Saturday at Southmoore High School, allowed survivors to meet with their insurer face-to-face to discuss outstanding insurance issues. “I was very pleased to see so many survivors get some resolution to their insurance...Read More

August 15, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Criticizes Federal Government for Awarding Navigator Grants OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak criticized the federal government Thursday for wasting $1.6 million of taxpayer money on Navigator grants related to the Affordable Care Act. The U .S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced Thursday that three organizations in Oklahoma were just awarded the grants.   “First, HHS wastes money and increases costs for insurers and...Read More

August 13, 2013 News Releases Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Invites Storm Survivors to Recovery Roundup OKLAHOMA CITY – Central Oklahoma storm survivors are invited to a recovery assistance event hosted by the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID). The Recovery Roundup will be held Saturday, Aug. 17, at Southmoore High School, 2901 S. Santa Fe Ave., from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Oklahomans have filed more than 92,000 claims since May 19 th , totaling more than $1 billion in insurance payments. But many consumers are still...Read More

August 13, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Applauds Victory Over ObamaCare OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is applauding a significant win in Oklahoma’s fight against the Affordable Care Act (ACA) after a federal judge denied the government’s motion to dismiss the case brought by Attorney General Scott Pruitt. “The federal government is struggling to push through ObamaCare when so many are against the overreaching law and its numerous flaws,” said...Read More

August 8, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Touts Program for Hard-to-Insure Homes OKLAHOMA CITY – The recent tornado outbreak has left many Oklahomans in the difficult position of trying to obtain homeowners insurance after a major loss. Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak wants to remind those consumers about the Oklahoma Market Assistance Program (OK-MAP). The program is designed to find protection for hard-to-insure homes.   “There are several reasons a home is difficult to...Read More

July 30, 2013 News Releases Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Hosts Recovery Roundup in Moore OKLAHOMA CITY – Central Oklahoma storm survivors still dealing with insurance issues are invited to a recovery assistance event hosted by the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID). The Recovery Roundup will be held Saturday, Aug. 17, at Southmoore High School from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The goal of the Recovery Roundup is to meet with any storm survivors still experiencing insurance issues. Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak...Read More

July 25, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Declares Emergency in Response to Severe Storms OKLAHOMA CITY – After a round of severe weather caused thousands of power outages and millions of dollars in damages, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has declared an emergency in Oklahoma. The declaration allows emergency claims adjusters to obtain temporary licenses to expedite the insurance claims process and provide immediate assistance to impacted Oklahomans. “I will do all I can to make sure Oklahomans get the...Read More

July 16, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Urges Schools to Analyze Financial Statements Before Entering Interlocal Agreement Financial documents to be posted on OID website OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) has launched a new webpage to help protect Oklahoma school districts considering interlocal insurance agreements. “The goal here is transparency,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “By making these financial statements readily available, school leaders can make well-informed...Read More

July 11, 2013 News Releases Former Insurance Agent Sentenced for Wire Fraud OKLAHOMA CITY – A former Bixby insurance agent has been sentenced to ten months home confinement after pleading guilty to wire fraud that allowed him to illegally take commissions earned by other insurance agents. The conviction comes after an investigation by the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s (OID) Anti-Fraud Unit.   Christopher M. Bland, 36, was indicted on 14 counts of wire fraud, 12 counts of making false...Read More

July 11, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Hosts Series of Forums on New Workers’ Compensation Law OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is separating fact from fiction when it comes to the new workers’ compensation law. OID will hold seminars aimed at educating business owners, workers and insurance agents about the upcoming workers’ compensation changes. Insurance professionals who attend the seminar can receive one hour of Continuing Education credit at no cost.   The Administrative...Read More

July 8, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Urges Storm Survivors to Register with FEMA OKLAHOMA CITY – Survivors of the tornadoes, severe storms and flooding that occurred in Oklahoma from May 18 to June 2 have less than two weeks to register for state and federal disaster assistance. The deadline is July 19.   “Even if you think your damage wasn’t that bad, you still should register with FEMA,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “It opens the door to all...Read More

July 3, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Says Employer Mandate Delay Proves Obamacare is Doomed to Fail  OKLAHOMA CITY –Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak said President Obama’s decision to delay the Affordable Care Act’s employer mandate for one year proves the entire law is hopelessly flawed.  "This is just more evidence that Obamacare will hurt jobs, economic growth and worst of all, Oklahoma families," said Doak. “Even the White House knows that Obamacare is a disaster. It makes...Read More

June 27, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Praises Religious Freedom Ruling in Hobby Lobby Case OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is applauding a decision by the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals that reverses a district court’s refusal to grant a preliminary injunction sought by Hobby Lobby. The Oklahoma-based company is fighting a mandate to cover the “morning-after pill” and similar drugs and devices in its company health plan.   “The goal here is to protect...Read More

June 26, 2013 News Releases Oklahoma Insurance Claims from May Tornadoes Top 75,000 OKLAHOMA CITY – Insurance claims filed in response to a major tornado outbreak in May jumped to 75,758 Wednesday, with insurance payments reaching $687,945,276.   “The victims of these devastating tornadoes will be dealing with the aftermath for quite a while,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “The claim filings are slowing down but they’re nowhere near complete. Most...Read More

June 18, 2013 News Releases Oklahoma Insurance Claims from May Tornadoes Top 70,000 OKLAHOMA CITY – Insurance claims filed in response to a major tornado outbreak in May jumped to 70,782 Tuesday, with insurance payments reaching $561,976,781. “These numbers are more proof of the dramatic impact the tornadoes had on our state,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “Thousands of Oklahomans are now in the process of rebuilding their lives. Insurance can help them do that and I am...Read More

June 14, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Holds Series of Disaster Recovery Forums Locations include Moore, El Reno, Shawnee, Carney and Little Axe OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has announced plans to hold a series of educational forums for storm victims. The weekly forums, which begin June 18, allow impacted Oklahomans to ask questions and receive assistance with insurance-related issues related to the May tornadoes. “We’ve seen the enormous impact the...Read More

June 14, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Protects Consumers by Capping Fees for Public Adjusters OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has issued a bulletin to all Oklahoma-licensed public adjusters advising them not to charge customers more than 10 percent of the total claim settlement. “Oklahoma storm victims need alternatives and assistance, but they also need to keep as much of their insurance claim as possible,” said Doak. “The consumer comes first. This is just another way the...Read More

June 14, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Advises Insurers to Delay Nonrenewals OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has issued a bulletin to all Oklahoma-licensed property and casualty insurers and insurance producers, advising them to keep customers on their current policies for at least 60 days after the completion of repairs. The move should give the policyholders enough time to make repairs and obtain coverage from another insurer. “As a result of the devastating tornado...Read More

June 13, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Hosts Post-Disaster Forum OKLAHOMA CITY – Insurance commissioners from across the country attended an educational post-natural disaster forum today, hosted by Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak, in response to the tornadoes that swept central Oklahoma in May. "This forum has been an important opportunity to share support and collaborate on better assisting consumers in the aftermath of these tornadoes," said John D. Doak, Oklahoma...Read More

June 11, 2013 News Releases Oklahoma Insurance Claims from El Reno, Moore Tornadoes Top 60,000 OKLAHOMA CITY – Insurance claims filed in response to several May tornadoes jumped to 60,308 Tuesday, with insurance payments reaching $470,323,299.   “These numbers are already staggering, and this is just the beginning,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “Many of the victims haven’t received their entire settlement checks yet, so that payment number will continue to go up...Read More

June 11, 2013 News Releases Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb Recognizes OID Employees for Tornado Response Efforts OKLAHOMA CITY – Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb on Monday recognized the efforts of Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) employees in the aftermath of the deadly tornado outbreak that impacted central Oklahoma in May.   “You guys have been working extremely hard,” said Lamb. “From consumer assistance and licensing to legal and senior issues, you’ve done it all. I can’t thank you enough for your...Read More

June 7, 2013 News Releases OID Offers Assistance for Seniors Impacted by Tornadoes OKLAHOMA CITY – Representatives with the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) are available to help senior adults impacted by the recent tornado outbreak. The counselors are available at the Multi-Agency Resource Center at Westmoore High School and by calling 1-800-763-2828 Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. “We are committed to helping every Oklahoman affected by tornadoes,”...Read More

June 6, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Announces Increased Anti-Fraud Efforts in Disaster Zones OKLAHOMA CITY – Today Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak announced the details of a coordinated effort to combat insurance fraud in tornado-damaged areas of central Oklahoma.   “Insurance companies have already paid out more than $250 million in storm claims,” said Doak. “Unfortunately, those claim dollars are often the target of unscrupulous individuals who prey on disaster victims at a...Read More

June 5, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Announces Two New Locations for 2013 Senior Fraud Conferences   OKLAHOMA CITY – Due to a growing number of reports of fraud targeting Oklahoma’s senior population,the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is holding a series of educational conferences across the state. Those who attend the half-day events will learn how to spot, avoid and fight fraud. “WhoDunIt? Investigating Fraud,” will be held in Midwest City, Lawton, Ardmore, Enid, Tulsa, Idabel...Read More

June 4, 2013 News Releases Number of Tornado-Related Insurance Claims Continues to Soar OKLAHOMA CITY – The total number of tornado-related insurance claims filed by Oklahomans has climbed to 32,433 since May 19. The filings represent insured losses of nearly $250 million, including 13,938 homeowners claims, 17,492 auto claims and 724 commercial property claims.   “Our responsibility is clear and our commitment to the citizens of Oklahoma is strong during this devastating time,” said Oklahoma...Read More

May 31, 2013 News Releases Defining the Debris Removal Process for Insured Tornado Victims OKLAHOMA CITY – Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak wants to make sure tornado victims with homeowners insurance understand their financial responsibility in regards to debris removal.   “Policyholders need to be aware of the process so they aren’t surprised down the road when they get a bill for debris removal,” said Doak.   The following guidelines apply to victims in the City of Moore. Other...Read More

May 29, 2013 News Releases 22,000 Insurance Claims Filed after Tornado Outbreak OKLAHOMA CITY – Property and auto insurance claims related to the May 19 & 20 tornadoes in Oklahoma have already reached 22,422, according to a data call by the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID). That number is expected to rise over the coming weeks and months. The filed claims represent insured losses of at least $85 million. According to Oklahoma Emergency Management, 3,937 structures were impacted during the tornados with 1,248...Read More

May 24, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Says Insurance Policies Will Remain in Place OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is calling for a moratorium on all insurance non-renewals, cancellations and terminations for affected areas in the wake of the tornado and severe storms that occurred in central Oklahoma May 19-20.   “This is just a small, administrative step that we can take to help ease the burden of the victims of this devastating storm,” said Doak....Read More

May 24, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Requests Assistance from Retired Insurance Agents OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is requesting assistance from retired insurance agents who are no longer licensed in the state of Oklahoma to volunteer at the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) Consumer Assistance booth during the tornado disaster recovery period.   “There is a great need from so many people due to the tornado disasters earlier this week and we need to help...Read More

May 22, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Opens Consumer Assistance Command Center for Tornado Victims OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak announced the opening of the Consumer Assistance Command Center to assist tornado victims. The Command Center is located at 301 NE 27th St., Moore, Okla. “Our goal is to assist people in any way we can who have witnessed firsthand the devastation that severe weather can cause,” said Doak. “This is a large-scale disaster that will take quite some time to...Read More

May 16, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Applauds New Law Aimed at Protecting School Districts from Financial Disaster OKLAHOMA CITY – Effective immediately, school districts entering into inter-local insurance agreements will have the additional support of required financial transparency of the entities they are joining. Senate Bill 692, supported by Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak and recently signed by Gov. Mary Fallin, requires inter-local insurance pools to file audited financial statements with the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID)....Read More

May 15, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Shows Support for Firewise Program OKLAHOMA CITY – Preparing for wildfire season in Oklahoma, the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is joining forces with Firewise Communities, a program designed to help individuals and communities plan for the threat of wildfires. “We are certainly accustomed to the threat of wildfires in our state, but I am urging Oklahomans to know their individual risk to their homes and families. Use the information that Firewise...Read More

May 14, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Announces Schedule for 2013 Senior Fraud Conferences OKLAHOMA CITY – Due to a growing number of reports of fraud targeting Oklahoma’s senior population, the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is holding a series of educational conferences across the state. Those who attend the half-day events will learn how to spot, avoid and fight fraud. “WhoDunIt? Investigating Fraud,” will be held in Midwest City, Lawton, Ardmore, Enid, Tulsa and Idabel.  ...Read More

May 14, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Announces Over $1 Million Recovered for Oklahoma Consumers in First Quarter OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Consumer Assistance Division recovered $1,088,844 for Oklahoma consumers in the first quarter of 2013. Between Jan. 1 and April 30, the Consumer Assistance Division closed 1,149 complaints, assisted more than 8,500 consumers over the phone and responded to over 200 emails. “Our department is here to help consumers with a wide range of insurance issues on a daily...Read More

May 10, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak’s Consumer Assistance Booth Open at Broken Arrow Rooster Days Festival OKLAHOMA CITY – Visitors to the 82ndAnnual Rooster Days Festival in Broken Arrow this weekend will have the opportunity to have their insurance questions answered by the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID). The OID Consumer Assistance booth will be set up for all three days of the event in an ongoing commitment to consumer outreach and education. “We are committed to Oklahoma consumers and make continued efforts to be available...Read More

May 9, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Blasts Federal Officials for Refusing to Fund Insure Oklahoma OKLAHOMA CITY – Insure Oklahoma, a successful, state-based insurance program serving the uninsured, has been scheduled to end December 31 if federal funding is pulled in an attempt to meet requirements of the Affordable Care Act (ACA).  “This is yet another example of Obamacare infringing on state rights,” Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak said. “The federal government is preventing Oklahoma from...Read More

May 8, 2013 Commissioner's Corner Avoid Falling for Scams after Disasters By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner   Ready or not, severe weather season is here. While you may be prepared for severe storms, wildfires and earthquakes, you may not be ready for the scammers that seem to surface right after Oklahoma’s natural disasters. It’s unfortunate that there are people out there trying to cheat others out of their hard-earned money under the guise of providing a service after...Read More

May 7, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Releases Statement of Support for Workers’ Compensation Reform Following Gov. Mary Fallin’s signing of SB 1062, Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak released the following statement:   “This is a historic moment for Oklahoma and for Workers’ Compensation reform. I applaud Governor Fallin for signing Senate Bill 1062 into law and the leadership of Speaker of the House T.W. Shannon and Senate President Pro Tem Brian Bingman. Currently, Oklahoma has one of the...Read More

May 3, 2013 Commissioner's Corner Resolve Your Insurance Conflict through EAGLE Mediation By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner     While the vast majority of insurance claims are settled quickly and effectively, sometimes the consumer and the insurer can’t agree. Luckily, there is a free, voluntary solution that offers both parties the opportunity to reach an agreement without going to court. It’s called the EAGLE Mediation Program. EAGLE stands for Ending Arguments Gently, Legally...Read More

May 1, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak’s Uninsured Motorist Bill Signed by Governor OKLAHOMA CITY – Starting November 1, law enforcement officers will be able to remove the tags of uninsured vehicles in the state of Oklahoma. House Bill 1792, proposed by Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak and recently signed into law by Gov. Mary Fallin, will also provide temporary liability insurance for the uninsured vehicle for ten days.   “This is a great victory in our efforts to curb the enormous...Read More

April 26, 2013 News Releases Million Dollar Investigations Discussed at Anti-Fraud Advisory Board’s First Meeting   OKLAHOMA CITY –Million dollar investigations, crimes that wiped out Oklahomans’ bank accounts and undercover operations were just a few topics discussed at the first meeting of the Anti-Fraud Advisory Board. “Bringing together these law enforcement experts to share ideas is a great thing for consumers,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “I’m honored that the board members...Read More

April 25, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Supports Bill that Prevents Healthcare Discrimination OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is encouraging support for House Bill 1403, which would establish the Nondiscrimination in Treatment Act. The bill is aimed at preventing healthcare providers from denying life-extending treatments based on age or probable quality of life.   “No person should ever be denied life-saving care regardless of age or existing health conditions,”...Read More

April 24, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Says Workers’ Compensation Bill Will Spur Economic Growth OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak applauds the leadership of Speaker of the House T.W. Shannon and Senate President Pro Tem Brian Bingman in the passage of Senate Bill 1062 in the House today. The bill is set to change the current court-based workers' compensation system to an administrative system and give the option of developing an alternative benefit plan to qualified employers....Read More

April 19, 2013 News Releases Flood Insurance Rate Increases Announced for October OKLAHOMA CITY – Flood insurance administered by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is set to increase rates for new and renewal policies October 1, 2013. Flood insurance is offered to homeowners, renters and business owners to protect against damages not covered by standard homeowners or renters insurance in the event of a flood. “Flooding is one of the top four disaster risks that we face here in Oklahoma and we must...Read More

April 16, 2013 Commissioner's Corner Strike Lightning Damage Before it Hits By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Spring weather inevitably raises many questions regarding damage caused by severe storms. One common question involves the aftermath of lightning strikes, which can bring down power lines, start fires and short out electronics. Every year an average of 50 lightning bolts strike within one mile of each person in Oklahoma. Nationwide, about 37 people a year are killed in lightning-related...Read More

April 11, 2013 News Releases OID Anti-Fraud Investigation Leads to Guilty Plea OKLAHOMA CITY – A Bixby business owner has pleaded guilty to a wire fraud charge that resulted from an investigation by the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s (OID) Anti-Fraud Unit. Christopher Bland, 36, was arrested in January with the assistance of the FBI and Oklahoma Highway Patrol. The arrest came after OID investigators discovered Bland was taking commissions earned by insurance agents working for his company....Read More

April 8, 2013 Commissioner's Corner Fallen Trees & Homeowners Insurance: What’s Covered? By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Springtime brings new life to the Oklahoma landscape but also ushers in severe weather, heavy rains and wicked winds. Some days, wind speeds go off the charts, reaching up to 50 miles per hour. Winds like that can do some serious damage, usually by cracking tree limbs or even toppling entire trees. Homeowners need to be prepared for this springtime hazard. Am I Covered?...Read More

March 28, 2013 News Releases FBI Raids Florida Insurance Company, Some Oklahomans Must Choose New Medicare Plan OKLAHOMA CITY –Some Oklahoma Medicare beneficiaries must select new Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans after a Florida insurance company was deemed insolvent, or unable to pay its debt. Thursday, agents with the FBI and Department of Health and Human Services executed search warrants at the St. Petersburg offices of Universal Health Care. The Florida Department of Insurance Regulation has accused the company of financial...Read More

March 25, 2013 News Releases Insurance Commissioner Warns of New Telephone Scam OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak and the Medicare Assistance Program are alerting Oklahoma seniors to a new telephone scam. The warning comes after reports of scammers telling victims that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires them to gather personal information for a national medical card. But such a card does not exist.   “Unfortunately, these types of scams are widespread,...Read More

March 22, 2013 News Releases Homeowners Statewide to Benefit from ISO Reviews OKLAHOMA CITY – Homeowners’ insurance rates are on the rise, yet, some Oklahoma homeowners may see a significant savings on their premiums in the coming year. A targeted effort by the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) to encourage the Insurance Services Office (ISO) to aggressively review communities’ Public Protection Classification (PPC) may lead to premium reductions for individual homeowners.  ...Read More

March 21, 2013 News Releases Obamacare Set to Make Health Insurance Unaffordable for Millions OKLAHOMA CITY – A new congressional report confirms that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) will not only fail to make healthcare more affordable as promised, but may increase health insurance premiums by as much as 200 percent for some Americans.   “For this very reason, I have made my opposition of Obamacare very clear,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “This report confirms...Read More

March 20, 2013 Commissioner's Corner Don’t Let a Flood Sweep Away Your Savings Damage from a flood is NOT covered under a standard homeowners policy By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner The top four disaster risks we face here in Oklahoma are tornadoes, hail, wildfires and floods. Yet, of those four risks, one is not covered by a standard homeowners policy. Flood protection requires additional insurance. This week is National Flood Safety Awareness Week. It’s a great time to remind...Read More

March 15, 2013 News Releases Insurance Commissioner Refuses to Enforce Obamacare OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department will not be participating in a collaborative effort with the Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight (CCIIO) to enforce the Affordable Care Act, according to a letter released by Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak.    “It is unfortunate that health insurers are being forced into a system of dual regulation by the overreaching...Read More

March 15, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Announces Appraisal Complaint Hotline in Continued Efforts to Fight Fraud Appraisal Complaint National Hotline: (877) 739-0096   OKLAHOMA CITY – Beginning operation of a toll-free Appraisal Complaint National Hotline was announced this morning, the first phase of a three-phased implementation plan. The hotline serves to receive and refer complainants of alleged violations in real estate appraiser financial transactions to appropriate state and/or federal agencies.  ...Read More

March 14, 2013 News Releases New Report Highlights the Increasing Number of Oklahomans Vulnerable to Tornadoes OKLAHOMA CITY–A new report from Lloyd’s of London, the world’s specialist insurance market, found that a growing number of Oklahomans are becoming increasing vulnerable to tornadoes. The report, Tornadoes: A Rising Risk? indicates that the growing density of mobile home parks in Oklahoma and other ‘Tornado Alley’ states is placing a greater risk on lives and homes. “This report should be a wakeup...Read More

March 13, 2013 News Releases NAIC President, Mississippi & North Carolina Insurance Commissioners Attend National Tornado Summit OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak welcomed National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) President and Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelan, Mississippi Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney and North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin to the 2013 National Tornado Summit.    "No state is immune to the devastating effects of severe weather," said...Read More

March 13, 2013 Tornado Summit National Tornado Summit Donates Marriott Rewards Points to American Red Cross OKLAHOMA CITY - The National Tornado Summit is pleased to announce the donation of its Marriott Rewards points to the American Red Cross. The points were accumulated by scheduling the 2012 and 2013 conventions at the Renaissance Oklahoma City Convention Center Hotel and Spa.   "This donation just makes sense," said National Tornado Summit Committee co-chairman John Wiscaver. "After a disaster, many families...Read More

March 7, 2013 News Releases Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Promotes National Severe Weather Preparedness Week OKLAHOMA CITY – During National Severe Weather Preparedness Week, March 3-9, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is emphasizing the need to develop a strong emergency plan and prepare a full home inventory. “We are committed to lessening the devastating effects of severe weather in our state by helping Oklahomans prepare for the worst,” said Doak. “As Oklahomans, we know how to come together during times of...Read More

March 5, 2013 News Releases Free Weather Fair Sunday in Oklahoma City Free Weather Fair Features Storm Chasers, Meteorologists, Storm Shelter & Weather Radio Giveaways Family-friendly event held in conjunction with National Tornado Summit OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma families are invited to attend the first annual Weather Fair, a free event held in conjunction with the National Tornado Summit. The event will be held March 10th at the Cox Convention Center in downtown Oklahoma City from 1:00 p.m....Read More

February 22, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Applauds Bill to Fight Obamacare’s Contraceptive Insurance Law OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has announced his support of Senate Bill 452, authored by Sen. Clark Jolley, R-Edmond. The proposal, which just passed a Senate panel, gives Oklahoma employers the option of not including contraceptives and abortions in employee insurance plans. “My support of Senate Bill 452 is a continued expression of my concern for upholding religious freedom in our state and the...Read More

February 19, 2013 News Releases Resolution to Support Religious Freedom Passes Committee OKLAHOMA CITY –In a joint statement released today, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak and Representative Gus Blackwell, R – Goodwell, announced the passage of House Joint Resolution (HJR) 1020 through committee, the first step in the legislative process to becoming a state question. The joint resolution proposes to amend the Oklahoma Constitution to prevent any employer from being forced to offer health insurance that...Read More

February 8, 2013 News Releases Insurance Commissioner to Help Raise Awareness of Congenital Heart Defects in Children Insurance Commissioner to Help Raise Awareness of Congenital Heart Defects in Children OKLAHOMA CITY –Just two days after doctors performed a cardiac procedure on his daughter, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak will take part in a balloon release to raise awareness of congenital heart defects in children. “This is an issue that is near and dear to my heart,” said Doak. “My daughter Kasey was born...Read More

February 5, 2013 News Releases Commissioner Doak Recommends Legislation to Create Temporary Insurance Plan for Uninsured Drivers Insurance Commissioner Also Announces Creation of Coalition Against Uninsured Drivers   OKLAHOMA CITY – A pair of legislative proposals would allow law enforcement officers to remove the tags of uninsured vehicles and create a temporary insurance plan for them. Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak announced the bills Tuesday at the State Capitol.   “We simply cannot afford...Read More

January 24, 2013 News Releases Insurance Commissioner Announces Creation of Anti-Fraud Advisory Board OKLAHOMA CITY –Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has created an Advisory Board to increase the effectiveness of the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Anti-Fraud Unit. The board includes four legislators, a county undersheriff, a police chief and two professors of criminal justice. “The advisory board will serve a significant purpose in our fight against insurance fraud,” said Doak. “The board’s...Read More

January 16, 2013 News Releases Oklahoma Hosts National Tornado Summit OKLAHOMA CITY – Emergency managers, policymakers, insurance industry professionals, teachers, weather experts and weather enthusiasts are invited to attend the 2nd annual National Tornado Summit in Oklahoma City March 10-12. “Since severe weather impacts everyone, this summit is for everyone,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “While the experts can learn valuable lessons about preparedness and...Read More

January 16, 2013 News Releases OID Investigation Leads to Federal Indictment OKLAHOMA CITY –An investigation by the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Anti-Fraud Unit has resulted in a federal indictment against a Bixby business owner. Tuesday, OID investigators and FBI agents, with the assistance of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, arrested Christopher Bland, 36, at his Bixby home. An OID investigation found that Bland, owner and general manager of Business Consultants of South Tulsa, was taking commissions...Read More

January 8, 2013 News Releases Uninsured Driver Problem Costs Oklahoma $8.8 Million a Year OKLAHOMA CITY – A new evaluation by the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) found that the state of Oklahoma is losing $8.8 million a year in premium taxes from drivers who fail to obtain the state-required minimum coverage for auto insurance. “When people break the law, and don’t pay their fair share, it hurts all of us,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “Half of that money would go into...Read More

January 4, 2013 News Releases Oklahoma Earthquake Prompts Insurance Review OKLAHOMA CITY – A shaky start to the new year in southern Oklahoma is a good reminder to review your homeowners and renters insurance policies and consider purchasing earthquake insurance. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported a 2.8-magnitude quake in Stephens County on Tuesday. It’s the first of what is likely to be many earthquakes Oklahoma will experience in the upcoming year. “We have had a significant...Read More

January 3, 2013 News Releases Insurance Department Mourns Loss of Horace Rhodes OKLAHOMA CITY –The Oklahoma Insurance Department is mourning the loss of former Deputy Insurance Commissioner Horace Rhodes. Rhodes, 86, died Tuesday after a long illness. “I am deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Horace Rhodes,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “Horace was a dedicated public servant whose contributions to the state of Oklahoma are still being felt decades later. Our...Read More

December 31, 2012 News Releases Insurance Commissioner Praises Illinois Court - Feels America is Losing Religious Freedoms Daily OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has praised the decision by a federal appeals court to temporarily bar the U.S. government from requiring an Illinois company to obtain insurance coverage for contraceptives. The owners, Cyril and Jane Korte, fought the Obamacare mandate because it violates their religious faith. Doak has been a fierce opponent of the contraception mandate since Obamacare became law....Read More

December 27, 2012 News Releases Keeping New Year’s Resolutions Could Lead to Lower Insurance Rates OKLAHOMA CITY – Making – and keeping - your New Year’s resolution may help lower your insurance rates in 2013. While bad habits can be hard to break, the motivation to save money may keep you on track in the new year. “We work hard throughout the year to educate Oklahomans on all aspects of insurance, particularly when we can share ways to save money,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak....Read More

December 17, 2012 News Releases Medicare Open Enrollment Counseling Helps Oklahomans Save Over $2 Million OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is pleased to announce that Oklahoma’s Medicare beneficiaries saved more than $2 million after receiving free assistance during Medicare’s Open Enrollment period.   “I cannot even begin to say how pleased I am that we could help Oklahoma seniors navigate this very important process,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D....Read More

December 14, 2012 News Releases Police Chiefs Give Insurance Commissioner, Anti-Fraud Unit Unanimous Support OKLAHOMA CITY – By unanimous vote, the Oklahoma Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) has passed a resolution of support for the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Anti-Fraud Unit.   “I really appreciate the show of support from the OACP, an organization dedicated to law enforcement in Oklahoma,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “We work hand-in-hand with those guys to protect...Read More

December 6, 2012 Commissioner's Corner Lower Temperatures Raise the Risk of Home Fires By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner   OKLAHOMA CITY – While Oklahoma has experienced some pretty mild weather this Fall, things are about to change. With forecasters predicting a major cold snap coming our way, now is a great time to make sure your home heating system is working properly. Proper maintenance not only protects your family from avoidable fire dangers, but protects all of Oklahoma from...Read More

November 30, 2012 News Releases Insurance Commissioner Responds to Concerns About Anti-Fraud Unit OKLAHOMA CITY –Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak issued the following statement in response to reported concerns about the department’s Anti-Fraud Unit. “I’m happy to address any concerns people may have.  I am very proud about what our Anti-Fraud Unit is doing, especially since it doesn’t come at taxpayer expense. The Unit includes former OSBI agents, Tulsa homicide detectives, and other...Read More

November 27, 2012 Commissioner's Corner 5 Tips to Protect Purchases this Holiday Season By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner It’s the most wonderful time of the year, which includes the fast-paced, holiday shopping season. As those hard-earned dollars start dropping for the perfect gifts on your Christmas list this year, remember the importance of protecting your investments. Whether your next purchase is a big-ticket item or a simple stocking stuffer, take some time to review the coverage on your insurance...Read More

November 21, 2012 News Releases Security Breach Compromises Personal Information of Oklahoma Customers OKLAHOMA CITY –The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) has been notified that the personal information of 534 Oklahomans may have been compromised during an online security breach at Nationwide Insurance Company headquartered in Columbus, OH. The computer network, used by Nationwide and Allied Insurance, was attacked on Oct. 3. “Protecting the privacy and security of consumers is a top priority,” said Oklahoma Insurance...Read More

November 19, 2012 News Releases Uninsured Driver Crackdown Declared Major Success OKLAHOMA CITY – A safety checkpoint in Tulsa County on Saturday netted 31 citations for driving without auto insurance. Law enforcement officers towed 11 of those uninsured vehicles. The checkpoint was the result of a partnership between the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Anti-Fraud Unit and the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office. “This checkpoint was very enlightening,” Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John...Read More

November 19, 2012 News Releases Doak Supports Gov. Fallin’s Decision to Reject a State-Based Exchange OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak announced Monday that he backs Gov. Mary Fallin’s decision not to pursue a state-based health insurance exchange for Oklahoma. “I fully support the Governor’s choice to forego a state-based exchange,” said Doak. “Oklahomans have been very clear about Obamacare. They don’t want it. An overwhelming majority, 65 percent, voted to outlaw...Read More

November 16, 2012 News Releases OID, Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office Team Up to Ticket Uninsured Drivers OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) and the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office have teamed up to address Oklahoma’s uninsured driver problem. Law enforcement officers from both agencies will work together to operate driver safety checkpoints in Tulsa County.   “Our Anti-Fraud Unit is excited to work with the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office and continue our efforts to reduce the number of...Read More

November 14, 2012 Commissioner's Corner Be a Quitter! Take Part in the Great American Smokeout By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner  Tobacco use is the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in the United States. If that is not enough to encourage you to rethink your next cigarette, here’s a figure that should hit home: close to 16 people a day in Oklahoma die as a result of their tobacco use. That’s 6,200 Oklahomans a year! The Oklahoma Insurance Department is committed to...Read More

November 7, 2012 News Releases Former Insurance Agent Headed to Prison for Defrauding Oklahoma Seniors OKLAHOMA CITY –Former insurance agent Marshall Virden has been sentenced to two years in prison for defrauding senior citizens in Wagoner County.  The punishment comes after a lengthy investigation by the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID). “Our Anti-Fraud Unit worked diligently to bring to light the full scope of Virden’s criminal activity in the state of Oklahoma,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John...Read More

November 6, 2012 News Releases MAP Counselors Answer Medicare Questions at Tulsa Event OKLAHOMA CITY – OklahomaInsurance Commissioner John D. Doak announced a Medicare question and answer event to be held in Tulsa Nov. 9-10. Medicare counselors will be on hand from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Reasor’s on 71st and Sheridan to answer questions related to Medicare open enrollment. “This is a great opportunity to get answers to all your Medicare questions. You can talk face-to-face with counselors from the...Read More

November 1, 2012 News Releases Commissioner Doak Supports Hobby Lobby’s Fight Against the Affordable Care Act OKLAHOMA CITY – OklahomaInsurance Commissioner John D. Doak has pledged his support for Oklahoma-based Hobby Lobby in its suit against a provision in the Affordable Care Act. The provision would require businesses to provide their employees with coverage for the morning-after pill and the week-after pill. “My firm belief is that employers should not be required to provide coverage for items that they object to based on...Read More

October 25, 2012 News Releases Two More OID Employees Graduate From CLEET OKLAHOMA CITY –Two more Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) employees have graduated from the Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET) Academy. “I am tremendously pleased that we have two more CLEET certified officers to help us protect Oklahoma consumers,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “I have no doubt that the expansion of our Anti-Fraud Unit will lead to more arrests across...Read More

October 9, 2012 News Releases Dobbins Named General Counsel for the Oklahoma Insurance Department OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak announced today the appointment of Susan Dobbins, J.D. to the position of General Counsel for the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID).   “Susan’s expertise, professionalism and dedication to service make her a perfect fit for General Counsel,” said Commissioner Doak. “I am thrilled that has she accepted this position. I know that she...Read More

October 5, 2012 News Releases Doak Calls for Bold Moves in Workers’ Compensation Reform OKLAHOMA CITY– Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak says it’s time for the Legislature to address Oklahoma’s biggest economic issue: workers’ compensation reform. “Workers’ compensation costs are spiraling out of control,” said Doak. “Oklahoma has some of the highest costs in the country and businesses have had enough. We’ve had several large employers tell us that if...Read More

October 5, 2012 News Releases Commissioner Doak Completes 77-County Tour OKLAHOMA CITY - With events held this week in Murray, Garvin and McClain Counties, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak completed his annual 77-County Tour. “The tour represents a promise I made when I was first elected, and my administration’s effort to represent the entire state of Oklahoma,” said Doak. “By holding community outreach events, the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is better able to...Read More

September 25, 2012 News Releases OID Opens Booth at Tulsa State Fair, Plans “Ask the Commissioner” Day OID Opens Booth at Tulsa State Fair, Plans “Ask the Commissioner” Day  OKLAHOMA CITY –Visitors to the Tulsa State Fair can get their insurance questions answered at the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s (OID) Consumer Assistance booth. “We had a tremendous response to our booth at the Oklahoma State Fair. Now we’re excited for round two in Tulsa,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner...Read More

September 18, 2012 News Releases Summits Planned to Educate Seniors About Medicare Open Enrollment OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma’s Medicare beneficiaries can learn more about their enrollment options during a series of Senior Summits conducted by the Oklahoma Medicare Assistance Program. The free events, held at ten locations across the state, are funded through a grant provided by the Senior Health Insurance Counseling Program (SHIP).The summits coincide with Medicare’s upcoming enrollment period for 2013, Oct. 15 to Dec....Read More

September 5, 2012 News Releases Additional Charges Filed Against Former Insurance Agent in Creek County OKLAHOMA CITY –A former insurance agent in Creek County has been charged with four additional felonies after an investigation by the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID). Donna Parrick, of Depew, is charged with two counts of Exploitation of an Elderly Person and two counts of Embezzlement. “It’s rare for an insurance agent to take advantage of a client,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “But...Read More

August 30, 2012 News Releases OID Schedules Additional Senior Fraud Conferences OKLAHOMA CITY – Due to popular demand, the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) has scheduled Senior Fraud Conferences in two more cities, Ponca City and Durant. “We’ve had a great response to these conferences,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “That tells me that Oklahoma’s senior adults are concerned about their financial safety and they want to do all they can to protect...Read More

August 27, 2012 News Releases New WreckCheck Mobile App Takes the Guesswork Out of Auto Accidents OKLAHOMA CITY — With the Labor Day weekend approaching and heavy highway travel expected, the Oklahoma Insurance Department is highlighting a new tool to help drivers who are involved in a crash.   According to the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office, more than 69,000 wrecks occur every year in Oklahoma. However, according to a July 2012 survey from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), many Americans do...Read More

August 27, 2012 Commissioner's Corner Labor Day a Great Time to Review Your Auto Policy Labor Day a Great Time to Review Your Auto Policy By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner This Labor Day 386,000 Oklahomans are expected to hit the road to have fun and visit family and friends. While it can be a great time to catch up with loved ones, the influx of travelers raises the risk of an auto accident. Law enforcement also expects a rise in the number of drunk drivers. Given those two factors, now is a...Read More

August 24, 2012 Commissioner's Corner Covering a College Student By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Sending a student to college can be an emotional and trying time. Remembering to pack everything they will need while away from home is a challenge — and so is understanding your changing insurance needs. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) offers these tips to help you review and update your insurance policies to cover your college student. Health...Read More

August 24, 2012 News Releases Partial Wildfire Aid Not Enough for Oklahoma OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has both praise and criticism today for the agency that approved federal aid for Oklahoma wildfire victims in one county, but denied the same aid for three other counties. This week, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) notified Gov. Mary Fallin that assistance for individuals and business owners impacted by wildfires in Creek County was approved, but denied for...Read More

August 23, 2012 News Releases Oklahoma Insurance Agency CEO Named National Chairman of the IIABA OKLAHOMA CITY –Ardmore insurance agency CEO Bob Bramlett has been named chairman of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”). “Bob has been serving Oklahoma consumers with respect and professionalism for decades,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D.Doak. “This appointment is well deserved. We offer him the sincerest of congratulations and look forward to...Read More

August 17, 2012 News Releases OID Educates Homeowners on Home Repair Fraud OKLAHOMA CITY – Homeowners dealing with storm damage, fire damage or renovations can learn how to protect themselves from fraud at a free forum hosted by the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) and the National Center for the Prevention of Home Improvement Fraud (NCPHIF). “Unfortunately, Oklahoma is very familiar with rebuilding after a disaster,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “Every time we...Read More

August 15, 2012 Commissioner's Corner Back to School a Perfect Time for Insurance Reviews By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Believe it or not, back-to-school time is upon us. Vacations, sports camps and extended bedtimes are coming to an end as parents and children get ready for classes to begin. As you prepare for a new school year, it’s also a great time to reevaluate your insurance needs. Here’s a quick checklist: Health Insurance Anyone with kids knows that being around a lot of other...Read More

August 10, 2012 News Releases OID Lawsuit Returns $15.3 Million to Oklahoma Hospitals, Doctors OKLAHOMA CITY –Health care providers across Oklahoma will be receiving checks worth more than $15.3 million this month, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak announced today. The funds are actual damages owed by the defunct AmCare Health Plans of Oklahoma, Inc., a health maintenance organization (HMO). “This is great news for Oklahoma hospitals and medical providers,” Doak said. “They were left holding the...Read More

August 7, 2012 News Releases OID Counting Claims, Providing Assistance to Wildfire Victims MANNFORD, Okla. – The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is working with other state agencies and charitable organizations to provide assistance to wildfire victims.   “This is a major disaster,” said Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “It will take a coordinated effort, over a long period of time, to help these communities get back on their feet.”   Doak, along...Read More

August 6, 2012 News Releases OID Expands Assistance to Wildfire Victims MANNFORD, Okla. – Oklahomans who suffered losses in the recent wildfire outbreak will have more places to go for answers to insurance questions. Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has directed new Consumer Assistance field locations be opened in Drumright and Noble/Slaughterville area. The location at the Drumright Fire Department, 124 W. Broadway, opened today. Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) staff will be...Read More

August 5, 2012 News Releases UPDATE: New location in Mannford OID Consumer Assistance is now set up at a more convenient location for affected residents in Mannford. Consumers can find help with insurance issues in the parking lot of LakeChurch at Hwy. 51 & Hwy. 48. The church is also providing food, drinks, clothes and more for wildfire victims at that location. ...Read More

August 5, 2012 News Releases Insurance Help Available for Wildfire Victims Oklahomans affected by wildfires need to know help is available for their insurance issues. Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak and Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) staff members are on the scene of the wildfire near Mannford today. OID's catastrophe team and industry executives are meeting with affected residents, answering questions and sharing information. Starting this afternoon, consumers in that area can visit...Read More

August 4, 2012 News Releases Commissioner Doak Visiting Luther Wildfire Area OKLAHOMA CITY -- Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak will be in Luther this afternoon for a firsthand look at the wildfire devastation and offering the Department's help. Commissioner Doak will be visiting with affected homeowners, as well as local officials and emergency crews. The Insurance Department's Anti-Fraud unit will have team members in the area and will be available to assist to law enforcement. The...Read More

July 30, 2012 News Releases Commissioner Doak Urges Wildfire Preparedness OKLAHOMA CITY – As the state’s hot, dry, windy weather continues to fuel wildfires, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak urges residents to protect their families, homes and property. “Firefighters battled wildfires all weekend and there is no end in sight,” Doak said. “Oklahomans need to check their home insurance policies, be aware of burn bans and do all they can to prevent wildfires.”...Read More

July 17, 2012 News Releases Open Enrollment for Child-Only Coverage Ends July 31st OKLAHOMA CITY –Parents and guardians have just two weeks remaining to take advantage of open enrollment for child-only insurance.  Children age 1-18 can be enrolled in child-only coverage without a qualifying event until July 31st. The lack of child-only policies was an unintended consequence of the federal Affordable Care Act passed in 2010. It left about 4 percent of Oklahoma children with no options for insurance....Read More

July 11, 2012 News Releases Commissioner Doak, Gov. Fallin Visit Lloyd’s of London OKLAHOMA CITY –Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak, with Gov. Mary Fallin and insurance industry executives, have visited Lloyd’s of London, the world’s specialist insurance market. “This visit was much needed,” Doak said. “With all the natural disasters we have in Oklahoma, we have to meet the needs of consumers by staying competitive in the marketplace.” This is the first time...Read More

July 11, 2012 News Releases OID Investigation Leads to Exploitation of the Elderly, Embezzlement Charges OKLAHOMA CITY –A former insurance agent in Creek County has been charged with three additional felonies after an investigation by the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID). Donna Parrick, of Depew, is charged with Exploitation of an Elderly Person, Embezzlement and Violation of the Oklahoma Licensed Producer Act. “As Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner, it’s my job to protect consumers,” said Oklahoma Insurance...Read More

July 10, 2012 Commissioner's Corner Fun on the Water Could Lead to Tragedy By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Oklahomahas more man-made lakes than any other state in the nation. It’s a big reason why boating is a beloved pastime for so many residents. But that fun in the sun can also put your safety at risk. These statistics from the U.S. Coast Guard prove that driving a boat can be just as dangerous as driving a car.  In 2010, boating accidents caused 672 fatalities, 3,153...Read More

July 6, 2012 Commissioner's Corner Senior Fraud: Retaliate By Reporting By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner A recently defrauded Oklahoma senior citizen admitted, “I felt like I had ‘stupid’ written across my forehead." This common reaction of older victims is one of the reasons that many cases of senior fraud go unreported and unpunished. Many victims feel embarrassed or fear that their loved ones will doubt their ability to independently care for themselves. But...Read More

July 3, 2012 News Releases OID Announces Regulatory Settlement Agreement OKLAHOMA CITY – Nearly four years after levying a $20 million fine against HealthMarkets, Inc., a multistate evaluation of the company has shown a drastic turnaround. “HealthMarkets, Inc. has made substantial improvements,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “They took our concerns seriously, implemented several new programs and changed the company culture. That’s a big win for...Read More

July 3, 2012 News Releases Commissioner Applauds Flood Insurance Program Reauthorization OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak and other members of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) are commending Congress for passing legislation to reauthorize the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for another five years. The program was due to expire at the end of July. “This helps bring financial stability to an important program,” Doak said. “Flooding is one of...Read More

July 2, 2012 Commissioner's Corner Preventing Senior Fraud By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Medicare, investments, and prepaid funerals represent just a few of the areas in which you may become a victim of fraud. Unfortunately, the number of possible scams is limited only by the imagination of the con artist.  To protect yourself, you must be wary of some of the most common vehicles for these schemes. Telemarketing: Scammers who want to defraud you by phone assume...Read More

June 29, 2012 News Releases National Tornado Summit Planning Committee Honored OKLAHOMA CITY – Members of the planning committee for the 2012 National Tornado Preparedness Summit have been named Hometown Heroes by the Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) for their contribution to Oklahoma City tourism. The Summit, held March 11-13 in downtown Oklahoma City, was hosted by the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID), National Weather Center and National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)....Read More

June 29, 2012 Commissioner's Corner Summer Heat Can Be Deadly  By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner  Anyone who lives in Oklahoma knows the summer temperatures can be dangerous and even deadly, especially for children. Already this year, seven children in the U.S. have died after being left in hot cars. Last year, we had two such tragedies in Oklahoma. Since 2008, it has been illegal in Oklahoma to leave a child unattended in a motor vehicle, yet it still continues...Read More

June 28, 2012 News Releases Commissioner Doak: More Legal Challenges of Obamacare Possible OKLAHOMA CITY –While he is disappointed with the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold Obamacare, Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak said he will do his duty under the law. However, potential legal challenges remain, namely on the issues of religious freedom and navigators. “Today’s ruling gives the federal government wide-ranging powers it has never had before,” said Doak. “Not only is it a federal...Read More

June 14, 2012 News Releases OID Conferences Teach Senior Adults to Fight Fraud OKLAHOMA CITY –Many fraudsters see senior adults as easy targets, now the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) wants to give seniors the tools they need to protect themselves. Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak and the OID have scheduled five anti-fraud conferences for senior adults. Those who attend the one-day event will learn how to spot, avoid and fight fraud. “Fraud Is No Game,” will be held in Woodward,...Read More

June 13, 2012 News Releases Commissioner Supports Religious Freedoms in Health Care OKLAHOMA CITY – As the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) begins its Spring General Assembly, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is expressing his support of religious freedoms in health care. The USCCB has filed a dozen lawsuits against a mandate of the Affordable Care Act that requires health insurance companies to offer free birth control to employees of religiously-affiliated organizations. While the...Read More

June 11, 2012 News Releases New Effort to Help Fire Departments & Reduce Home Insurance Rates  OKLAHOMA CITY –While speaking at the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association (OSFA) Convention on Saturday, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak detailed a plan to improve the ratings of Oklahoma fire departments and reduce home insurance rates. “Our local fire departments are amazing,” said Commissioner Doak. “Whether they get paid a salary or they do the job for free, these firefighters save lives...Read More

June 5, 2012 Commissioner's Corner OID Stats Show a Slam Dunk By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner The 2012 NBA playoffs have brought great excitement to the state. The Thunder’s series with San Antonio has also come with some pretty amazing stats. If the Thunder wins Game 6, they’ll be just the 15th NBA team to come back from a 2-0 hole to win the series. In Game 4, Serge Ibaka went 11-for-11, the same night that Kevin Durant scored 16 straight points to help the Thunder...Read More

May 31, 2012 News Releases Open Enrollment for Child-Only Coverage Starts Friday OKLAHOMA CITY –Open enrollment for child-only insurance coverage begins June 1st and runs through July 31st. During this time, children age 1-18 can enroll in child-only coverage without a qualifying event. The lack of child-only policies was an unintended consequence of the federal Affordable Care Act passed in 2010. It left about 4 percent of Oklahoma children with no options for insurance. “This segment of the market is...Read More

May 30, 2012 News Releases Insurance Department Helping Storm Victims OKLAHOMA CITY – With one round of severe storms complete and another round expected, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D.   Doak has declared an emergency in Oklahoma. The declaration allows insurance companies to bring in additional adjusters to help in the claims process.   “I made the decision to order a Declaration of Emergency to help storm victims get the help they need quickly,” said...Read More

May 29, 2012 News Releases New Captive Law Will Invite Businesses to Oklahoma OKLAHOMA CITY –A proposed new law paves the way for more insurance companies to do business in Oklahoma. Senate Bill 1617, requested by Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak, caps the premium tax on captive insurance companies at $100,000. Captive insurance refers to a subsidiary corporation that provides insurance to the parent company and its affiliates. It allows corporations and groups to take financial control and manage...Read More

May 22, 2012 News Releases AUTO INSURANCE: Get Prepared Before Your Summer Road Trip Plenty of gas in the tank? – Check.  Properly-inflated tires? – Check.  What about your auto insurance?  How long since that’s been checked? “Many Oklahomans haven’t reviewed their auto insurance in years,” Insurance Commissioner John Doak said. “It’s a crucial safety feature to check before you hit the road on a summer road trip.  With hundreds of thousands of Oklahomans...Read More

May 18, 2012 Commissioner's Corner Commissioner's Corner: Teens and Parents: Beware of “100 Deadliest Days” Teens and Parents: Beware of “100 Deadliest Days” By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Summertime means parties, vacations and fun but it can also be a very dangerous time for teenagers. The American Automobile Association calls the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day “The 100 Deadliest Days,” for teen drivers. In fact, seven of the 10 deadliest days of the year for teens fall between...Read More

May 11, 2012 News Releases New Law Toughens Penalties for Insurance Fraud   OKLAHOMA CITY –Tougher penalties for insurance fraud are on the way, thanks to the passage and governor’s signing of Senate Bill 1439. Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak requested the bill, which is expected to save taxpayers millions of dollars.     “The law sends the message that if you steal money from Oklahomans, we’re going to come after you,” said Commissioner...Read More

May 9, 2012 News Releases INSURANCE COMMISSIONER ISSUES CITATION TO CHELSEA FIRE DEPARTMENT   Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has issued a citation of congratulations to the Chelsea Fire Department. The citation commends the department for its 100 years of service and dedication to public safety. The volunteer fire department celebrated its centennial Saturday with an all-city Appreciation Day. Fire Chief Matt Fraley said both current and retired firefighters wanted to thank the citizens of Chelsea for...Read More

April 25, 2012 News Releases New Private Sector Solution Will Lower Health Insurance Costs OKLAHOMA CITY – Many of Oklahoma’s small businesses can look forward to saving money, thanks to Governor Mary Fallin’s signing of Senate Bill 1621 today. The measure will allow small employers to purchase group insurance through an employer association, which can pool resources with like businesses.   Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak said, “SB 1621 has been a top priority this session because it will...Read More

April 23, 2012 News Releases Another First for Commissioner Doak: OID hosts Inaugural Domestic Conference   OKLAHOMA CITY – Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak hosted more than one hundred of Oklahoma’s domestic insurance business leaders and elected officials today during the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s inaugural Domestic Conference.  The 2012 Domestic Conference acted as a catalyst for the CEOs, CFOs and other leaders of insurance companies chartered in Oklahoma.  The goal of the event was to give...Read More

April 16, 2012 News Releases Doak Tours Tornado Damage in Woodward WOODWARD – Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak joined Governor Mary Fallin, Senator Bryce Marlatt and Albert Ashwood, Director of Emergency Management, in a press conference Sunday afternoon following a tour of Woodward County’s tornado damaged areas.   “I would like to thank the Governor for her support of the Woodward citizens during their time of need,” said Doak, who was accompanied by former Senator...Read More

April 15, 2012 News Releases Oklahoma Insurance Department offers guidance for consumers affected by storms Tips for filing claims, preventing further damage, avoiding repair fraud The Oklahoma Insurance Department recommends individuals and businesses with damage from the storms in Norman, Mustang and Woodward contact their insurance companies as soon as possible. In a response to the severe storms, Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has issued a catastrophe declaration in Oklahoma allowing insurance companies to bring in additional...Read More

April 13, 2012 News Releases Doak Praises New Liability Law for Public Facilities OKLAHOMA CITY –Insurance Commissioner John Doak congratulated Sen. Ron Justice, Rep. Fred Jordan and Rep. Purcy Walker on the passage of SB 1316. Governor Mary Fallin signed the bill this week, which will protect public facilities from hefty liability claims.   “Senator Justice saw first hand the devastation of tornados in his district last spring.  He was a strong leader for his community in a very difficult...Read More

April 13, 2012 News Releases Doak introduces Prepare Yourself Initiative OKLAHOMA CITY –Commissioner John Doak wants every Oklahoma citizen to be aware of OID’s Prepare Yourself initiative, especially due to the extreme weather expected this weekend.   “The National Weather Service has declared a high-risk warning for much of Oklahoma and I advise everyone to take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their family and property during this severe weather warning,”...Read More

April 11, 2012 News Releases Charges Anticipated Against Customer Services Representative OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak announced today that the Anti-Fraud Unit of the Insurance Department is investigating the misappropriation of funds by a former employee of twelve years at the Oklahoma County branch of Farm Bureau.   The former employee is being investigated by the Insurance Department after a suspected loss of over $270,000 was discovered by an internal Farm Bureau auditing...Read More

April 10, 2012 News Releases Oklahoma Insurance Department Needs Assistance in Locating Victims OKLAHOMA CITY – Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak stated today, “Oklahomans need to be aware of a scam that recently targeted some of our senior citizens.”   In an on going investigation the Oklahoma Insurance Department wants to inform citizens that Marshall Virden, a former Oklahoma insurance agent has been arrested, but not yet charged, for exploiting several elderly individuals by selling them...Read More

April 7, 2012 News Releases Fraud Charges Filed Against Marshall Virden in Tulsa County Tulsa - Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak announces that additional charges have been filed in Tulsa County against Marshall Virden.  The victim, a resident of Collinsville, OK, has come forward alleging that Virden defrauded him of more than $2,000.   Oklahoma Insurance Department investigators found that the victim came to know Virden through their parents who were current clients.  Virden was delivering an...Read More

April 4, 2012 News Releases Broken Bow Agent Sentenced in McCurtain County OKLAHOMA CITY – Commissioner John D. Doak and McCurtain County District Attorney Mark Matloff announced the conviction and subsequent sentencing of Matthew Hammer, a formerly licensed insurance agent in Oklahoma.   The Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Anti-Fraud Unit led the investigation of Hammer, and the McCurtain County District Attorney’s office prosecuted. Hammer pled guilty to one felony count of...Read More

April 4, 2012 News Releases Additional Charges of Exploitation of the Elderly Filed Against Virden TULSA – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak announced that addition charges have been filed in Kay County against Marshall Virden. A subsequent arrest warrant has been issued and bond set at $50,000 for a single count of Exploitation of an Elderly Person by Trick or Deception. Assistant District Attorney Ed Goodman of Kay County filed the charge.   Oklahoma Insurance Department investigators found that...Read More

March 28, 2012 News Releases Collinsville Agent Arrested in Florida for Exploitation of Oklahoma Elderly WAGONER COUNTY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak, Wagoner County District Attorney Brian Kuester and Wagoner County Sherriff Bob Colbert announced the apprehension of Marshall Virden by the U.S. Marshall’s Fugitive Apprehension Task Force in Pinellas County Florida.   “We do not yet know the full scope of this criminal’s activity in Oklahoma and we are asking the media to help us find...Read More

March 28, 2012 News Releases Commissioner Doak Praises Supreme Court Opposition to Individual Mandate OKLAHOMA CITY - Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak today praised members of the Supreme Court for their resistance of the individual mandate during oral arguments. The Supreme Court heard two hours of discussion where it questioned the Constitutionality of the law and whether there would be any limit to Congress’ power if it were allowed to stand.   “I am thankful to see that the Supreme Court recognizes...Read More

March 22, 2012 News Releases Doak Urges President to End PPACA OKLAHOMA CITY - Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak urged President Obama today to repeal his highly unpopular federal takeover of health insurance. Doak said, “Hopefully, the President heard the voices of Oklahomans today and realize that his health insurance mandate is a mistake.”   “Oklahomans voted overwhelmingly against the president’s plan in 2010. If President Obama came to Oklahoma to...Read More

March 19, 2012 News Releases Oklahoma Hosted Nation’s Largest Summit on Tornado Preparedness National Meteorologist, U.S. Department of Homeland Security Leaders, Oklahoma Governor, Lt. Governor and Insurance Commissioner Addressed over 800 Insurance Professionals   The Oklahoma Insurance Department, National Weather Center in Norman, OK, and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners successfully hosted the first-ever National Tornado Preparedness Summit in Oklahoma City. The goal of the summit was...Read More

March 16, 2012 News Releases Commissioner John D. Doak Proudly Announces New Insurance Department Website OKLAHOMA CITY - Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak today revealed his department’s newly updated website at www.oid.ok.gov . The Oklahoma Insurance Department’s (OID) new site features a renewed template layout consistent with the recent Oklahoma Governor’s website helping to provide a trusted experience for citizens and Oklahoma’s insurance regulated entities since visitors will always know they are visiting...Read More

March 15, 2012 News Releases Insurance Agent Charged with Embezzlement LAWTON - Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak and Comanche County District Attorney Fred Smith made public their investigation of an embezzlement resulting in the signed confession and surrendered license of Amanda Sue Wilson from Lawton, OK.   The investigation of Wilson began when the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Anti-Fraud Unit received a referral from an audit consultant retained by a large Oklahoma...Read More

March 7, 2012 Media Advisory MEDIA ADVISORY: Commissioner Doak Set to Tour Wildfire Damage Commissioner John D. Doak will be visiting Kiefer, Liberty and the Mounds area today to examine the damage caused by wildfires which started on March 5th. The wildfires swept through the NE part of the state affecting mostly Tulsa, Creek, and Okmulgee counties.   “These areas were primed for wildfires given the high winds and dry conditions. The local and rural firefighters did a tremendous job protecting the property...Read More

March 6, 2012 News Releases Doak Draws Line in the Sand NEW ORLEANS – Commissioner John D. Doak called for a historic vote on Tuesday, March 6th during the 2012 NAIC Spring 2012 National Meeting concerning the protection of religious liberties in healthcare. “Religious freedom is a basic constitutional right granted by our founding fathers and paid for by the sacrifice of millions of veterans for all the citizens of the United States to enjoy, and currently that right is being...Read More

March 2, 2012 News Releases Doak asks Attorney Generals to Protect State’s Rights Against Federal Office of Insurance Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak asks State Attorney Generals to review the constitutionality of the creation of the Federal Office of Insurance.  Commissioner Doak believes that this newly created office will be duplicative and circumvent state based regulation. Doak stated, “The guidelines outlined for the FIO in the Dodd-Frank Act will naturally evolve to federal regulation.  Why else would you create a...Read More

March 2, 2012 News Releases Doak Announces New OID Mobile App NEW ORLEANS –While attending the NAIC Spring 2012 National Meeting, Commissioner John D. Doak announced the creation of a new mobile phone App for the Oklahoma Insurance Department. “This App is the first ever of its kind for any insurance department and it will give Oklahoma companies, agents and consumers a new avenue in which to find resources and communicate needs,” Doak stated. The new mobile phone App offered...Read More

March 2, 2012 News Releases Commissioner Doak Comments on Widespread Tornado Activity New Orleans - Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak commented from the NAIC 2012 National Meeting this afternoon concerning the line of extreme weather cutting across a wide portion of the country today. “The loss of life due to tornados and severe weather throughout our nation has been a great tragedy and our hearts go out to those families impacted by these events.”  The recent storms passing through the...Read More

March 1, 2012 News Releases Doak Disapproves of Senate Killing Blunt Amendment OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak expressed his strong disapproval of the US Senate voting 51 - 49 to kill the Blunt Amendment which would have protected the rights of religious organizations.   The Blunt Amendment, authored by Roy Blunt (R-MO.), was designed to combat the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) mandate which requires all health insurers to cover birth control...Read More

February 29, 2012 News Releases Oklahoma to Host Nation’s Largest Summit on Tornado Preparedness  National Meteorologist, U.S. Department of Homeland Security Leaders, Oklahoma Governor, Lt. Governor and Insurance Commissioner will address more than 700 insurance professionals The Oklahoma Insurance Department, National Weather Center in Norman, OK, and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners are partnering to host the first-ever National Tornado Preparedness Summit in Oklahoma City. The goal of the summit...Read More

February 9, 2012 News Releases Doak joins faith community in its stand against heavy-handed health care overhaul OKLAHOMA CITY –Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak has taken aim at new federal regulations requiring even religious organizations to provide contraceptives and family planning services that violate their beliefs as part of their workplace health insurance plans. Doak today continued to raise the call for overturning the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act in light of recent federal policy that has jarred members of...Read More

February 6, 2012 News Releases Doak urges Oklahomans to join ‘ShakeOut’ and consider earthquake insurance options OKLAHOMA CITY – On Tuesday the Oklahoma Insurance Department joins the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management, the Oklahoma Geological Survey and more than 2 million people in nine states in the second annual Great Central U.S. ShakeOut, an earthquake preparedness drill. “The Insurance Department participated in this event last year, and after an earthquake of record 5.6 magnitude struck near Prague in November, Oklahomans...Read More

February 2, 2012 News Releases Doak backs McDaniel bill to shore-up Oklahoma firefighter pension fund OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak voiced his support today for bolstering the pension funds of the state’s firefighters. Doak said he supports House Bill 2320 introduced by Rep. Randy McDaniel (R-Oklahoma City), which would restore solvency to the Oklahoma Firefighters Pension and Retirement System in part by increasing contributions from insurance premium taxes. The plan negotiated with...Read More

January 25, 2012 News Releases Doak slashes Insurance Department spending by nearly $675,000 in first year OKLAHOMA CITY –Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak today announced that a final accounting of Insurance Department expenditures revealed his administration spent nearly $675,000 less during 2011, his first year in office, than the Insurance Department spent in calendar year 2010. For the 12 months ending Dec. 31, 2011, the Insurance Department spent $11,160,855.28 compared to $11,833,228.01 in 2010, a total savings of...Read More

January 24, 2012 News Releases Doak works with High Risk Pool to bring health coverage to youngest Oklahomans OKLAHOMA CITY –Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak this afternoon praised a policy decision by the Oklahoma High Risk Pool that effectively closes any remaining gap in child-only health insurance coverage for Oklahomans. “We’ve worked for a year to address this issue and a complete solution is coming together,” Doak said. The Board of Directors of the Oklahoma Health Insurance High Risk Pool (OHRP)...Read More

January 19, 2012 News Releases Doak says oil industry’s expertise and insurance would protect environment in job-creating pipeline OKLAHOMA CITY –Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak today voiced his displeasure that the Obama administration has rejected the Keystone XL pipeline project, saying the president killed Oklahoma job opportunities and dealt a setback to American energy independence in the face of undue environmental concerns.  “The project would have created an estimated 1,200 jobs for Oklahomans – positions in the oil and gas...Read More

January 18, 2012 Commissioner's Corner Bridging the gap between retirement and Medicare: Early retirement health insurance options By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Many baby-boomers are facing the prospect of retirement. For some in this age bracket a lifetime of hard work will add up to a good pension and ongoing benefits after they leave the daily grind. But for others, including those whose employers have converted their retirement benefits, the prospects are more precarious. In conjunction with the National Association of Insurance...Read More

January 12, 2012 News Releases Doak glad Democrats becoming aware of child-only insurance gap OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak today welcomed Democrats to the table where a health insurance issue critical to Oklahoma children is being addressed. He does have a few questions for them.   “I am glad that insuring Oklahoma children has finally become a priority for the state’s Democrats,” Doak said this afternoon. “I’d just like to know where they’ve been...Read More

January 11, 2012 News Releases Doak, Pruitt bring halt to man selling fake health insurance in Tulsa area OKLAHOMA CITY – An Oklahoma Insurance Department investigation has resulted in charges of embezzlement against a Tulsa area man who was unlawfully selling health insurance to Oklahoma customers.   Terry L. McCrackin, 64, was charged in Tulsa County by Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt’s office on Dec. 20. McCrackin made a preliminary court appearance in Tulsa Tuesday and was released on $2,500 bond....Read More

January 4, 2012 News Releases Doak fears ‘massive disruption’ of Oklahoma health market in wake of MLR waiver denial OKLAHOMA CITY –Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak expressed grave disappointment Wednesday that his state’s request for a waiver on Medical Loss Ratio requirements from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services was rejected.  Announcement of the rejection came this afternoon from Washington.  “This decision could lead to a massive disruption of our insurance markets in Oklahoma,” Doak...Read More

December 30, 2011 Commissioner's Corner Impaired driving is more than just a holiday problem By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Holiday seasons are filled with social events – good times with good friends – and more than a few warnings against drinking and driving. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), about four in 10 traffic-related deaths during the Christmas and New Year’s season involve drunk drivers. But the danger of impaired drivers is nearly as...Read More

December 21, 2011 Commissioner's Corner Space heater fire risk calls for caution and insurance coverage that is up-to-date By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner As bitter winter weather approaches, some Oklahomans will turn to the warmth of space heaters to keep their homes hospitable. Too often, comfort is achieved in exchange for safety. The National Fire Protection Association says supplemental heating equipment is the leading cause of home fires during the months of December, January and February. Home heating equipment is second only to...Read More

December 7, 2011 News Releases Doak notes 'golden opportunity' for Medicare-eligible to get last-minute enrollment help from OID Oklahoma City – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak said this afternoon that in an eleventh-hour move to help Medicare partners assist more seniors, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) earlier today  to extend open enrollment to Dec. 10 for Medicare-eligible consumers who call for help by midnight tonight. Doak decided the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Senior Health Insurance Counseling...Read More

December 5, 2011 News Releases Doak says Gov. Fallin’s signature on emergency rule revives ‘child-only’ insurance for Oklahoma Oklahoma City – Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin on Monday gave her approval to an emergency rule intended to close an insurance gap created by federal health care reform. For some 18 months, “child-only” policies for ages 19 and under have not been sold by any insurance company doing business in Oklahoma, a response by insurers to new federal regulations in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Insurance Commissioner...Read More

November 30, 2011 News Releases Doak says SHIP counselors stand ready as Medicare open enrollment deadline nears Oklahoma City – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is reminding consumers the Medicare open enrollment window is closing fast and the Oklahoma Insurance Department can help seniors make the right last-minute decisions. OID’s Senior Health Insurance Counseling Program (SHIP) has counselors trained to provide assistance to Oklahomans who have questions about Medicare prescription drug plans and other coverage. SHIP...Read More

November 22, 2011 News Releases Doak applauds Oklahoma company for adding new line of earthquake coverage Oklahoma City – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak announced that an Oklahoma general insurance agency is adding earthquake deductible buy-down insurance as a means of making the cost of recovering from earthquake damage more manageable for property owners. Midlands Management Corporation of Oklahoma City, which already offered standalone earthquake coverage for commercial risks, will immediately begin quoting the new...Read More

November 21, 2011 News Releases Doak invites California Earthquake Authority to consult with OID and University of Oklahoma Oklahoma City – At the behest of Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak, executives from the California Earthquake Authority met today with officials from the Oklahoma Insurance Department and media experts at the University of Oklahoma’s Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communications. Doak arranged the meetings in the wake of a state-record 5.6-magnitude earthquake that shook central  Oklahoma on Nov. 4,...Read More

November 17, 2011 News Releases Former Stigler agent begins five-year prison term for insurance crimes Oklahoma City – A Stigler woman began serving time in prison this month for crimes uncovered earlier this year by anti-fraud investigators at the Oklahoma Insurance Department. Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak revoked the insurance license of Amanda Jean Burgess on July 15. Burgess was accused by OID anti-fraud investigators of bilking both insurance companies she represented and individual customers. “The...Read More

November 15, 2011 News Releases Promise kept: Commissioner listens to consumers in all 77 Oklahoma counties Oklahoma City – With an insurance roundtable at the Medford Emergency Services Building this afternoon, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak made good on a campaign pledge delivered in 2010 to his future constituents. On the campaign trail the commissioner had promised that election season wouldn’t be the only time Oklahomans would see John Doak in their communities. He intends to meet and discuss Insurance...Read More

November 14, 2011 News Releases Doak says Supreme Court decision to hear health reform challenges good for country Oklahoma City – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak said on Monday that he is eager to see the United States Supreme Court tackle the constitutionality of sweeping federal health care reforms and he expects to see the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act struck down next year by the nation’s highest court. As widely anticipated, the Supreme Court agreed earlier Monday to decide the fate of PPACA by hearing...Read More

November 11, 2011 News Releases Death of Sen. David Myers mourned by Insurance Department executives Oklahoma City – Officials at the Oklahoma Insurance Department on Friday joined voices across the state in offering condolences and eulogies following the death of state Sen. David Myers, R-Ponca City. The Republican chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee died Friday due to a lung infection. “As a newcomer to politics, I feel so fortunate to have met and worked with Sen. David Myers during my brief tenure in...Read More

November 10, 2011 News Releases Doak announces new firm in Oklahoma earthquake insurance market amid aftershocks of major event Oklahoma City – A new carrier for commercial earthquake insurance represents the first fruits of an initiative launched by Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak to bring more products and competition to the Sooner State, and comes at a time when tremors have shaken awake the state’s insurance consumers. Van Wagoner Companies, the oldest managing general agency in Texas, will begin selling “monoline”...Read More

November 10, 2011 News Releases Doak addresses moratoriums as consumers wait for earthquake coverage Oklahoma City – Oklahoma insurance consumers have been shaken to attention by recent damaging earthquakes and many have inquired about being insured against future tremors. In most cases, uncovered customers have been temporarily turned away due to waiting periods on writing new coverage – known in the industry as “moratoriums” – put in place by the companies that offer earthquake insurance....Read More

November 9, 2011 News Releases Doak’s opposition to federal health reforms not deterred by D.C. ruling Oklahoma City – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak said Wednesday that he was not discouraged by a 2-1 ruling Tuesday in a Washington, D.C., federal appeals court upholding the constitutionality of federal health care reform laws. “This matter will be settled in the Supreme Court, not in the courts of appeals where rulings on the law and its constitutionality have disagreed and federal judges who have heard the same...Read More

November 8, 2011 News Releases Commissioner Doak sends reminder of Emergency Alert System test Oklahoma City – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak this afternoon reminded citizens that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will be conducting its first nationwide Emergency Alert System (EAS) Test on Wednesday from 1 to 2 p.m. Central Standard Time.  FEMA, in a collaborative effort with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), are testing...Read More

November 3, 2011 News Releases Doak’s 10-month turnaround of Insurance Department verified by NAIC National Harbor, Md. – First-term Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak said today that a major deficiency inherited by his administration in January has been corrected according to the national association that establishes and monitors the regulatory protocols of state insurance departments. A financial committee of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) confirmed Wednesday afternoon that the Oklahoma...Read More

October 28, 2011 News Releases Recent tremors should prompt policy review Oklahoma City – Over the past few days, minor earthquakes have rattled Oklahoma homes and businesses. At least seven tremors have been reported in Oklahoma during the month of October alone. Yet there are cracks in the insurance policies of many Oklahomans. Most property insurance policies exclude damage caused by earthquakes. Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak said Friday that now is a good time for policyholders to speak...Read More

October 21, 2011 Commissioner's Corner During Medicare Open Enrollment, When in Doubt, Ask OID’s SHIP and SMP By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Medicare open enrollment has begun, bringing with it both the opportunity for seniors to tailor their coverage to their needs and budgets and the opportunity for dishonest people to prey upon those seniors and the taxpayers who contribute to the program. Fraud is an issue that Medicare continually struggles to address. The federal government estimates taxpayer losses to Medicare fraud...Read More

October 4, 2011 News Releases Commissioner Doak to field insurance concerns for public at Tulsa State Fair Friday Oklahoma City – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak will be available to meet Tulsa fairgoers on Friday afternoon from 2 to 5 p.m. The Oklahoma Insurance Department has staffed an educational and consumer assistance booth at the Oklahoma City and Tulsa state fairs in addition to several county fairs and other events throughout the state. At the Tulsa State Fair, the OID display is located on the lower level of the QuikTrip...Read More

October 4, 2011 News Releases Doak cautions seniors, caregivers, commuity to be on watch for fraud during Medicare open enrollment Oklahoma City – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak is asking seniors, health care providers and others in the community to be alert for unscrupulous insurance agents during the upcoming Medicare open enrollment period, which begins Oct. 15 and ends Dec. 7. “Our Senior Medicare Patrol and its community volunteers work every day to protect seniors and taxpayers from Medicare fraud and abuse, but they need your help,”...Read More

September 30, 2011 Commissioner's Corner Fall Enrollment the Time for Oklahomans to Review Health Options, Make Best Choices By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner With economic concerns still weighing on many Americans and health care reform still a confusing and controversial subject, Oklahoma families should take more time than ever this year to consider their options as health insurance open enrollment begins this fall. Rising medical costs and new coverage laws make this an opportune time to review all available options, whether you have...Read More

September 28, 2011 News Releases Doak presents Bev Binkowski of BlueCross BlueShield with Insurance Professional of the Month Award Oklahoma City – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak has announced Bev Binkowski as the second recipient of the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Outstanding Insurance Professional of the month Award. Binkowski is the Director of Public Affairs for BlueCross BlueShield of Oklahoma, a division of Health Care Service Corporation, which also manages BlueCross BlueShield divisions in Illinois, Texas and New Mexico....Read More

September 27, 2011 Commissioner's Corner ‘Ready, Set, Go!’ Wildfire Preparedness Saves Lives and Property By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Cooler temperatures and welcome rain arrived recently and briefly in our state, but for the past few months, Oklahoma has been hot, dry and in many places, ablaze. Drought has turned most of the state into a tinderbox in which a carelessly discarded cigarette or the slightest spark can start a wildfire that rages for days. Thousands of acres have burned in Oklahoma this year. Hundreds...Read More

September 14, 2011 News Releases Hope for Oklahoma job market: Doak declares state’s work comp trend reversed as NCCI filing approved Oklahoma City – Oklahoma employers who are tired of paying some of the nation’s highest workers’ compensation insurance premiums finally have some hope for relief. Insurance Commissioner John Doak announced today that the Oklahoma Insurance Department on Tuesday approved a filing by the National Council on Compensation Insurance reflecting a 1.7 percent decrease in the loss cost ratio used by many carriers to determine...Read More

September 13, 2011 Commissioner's Corner Comparing Online Auto Insurance Quotes: Savvy Shopping Can Save Money   By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Turn on a television, flip through a magazine or browse the Internet and you are likely to be bombarded with ads offering to save you money on auto insurance. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners recommends checking your car insurance policies annually to ensure the coverages are right for your current circumstances and that you are getting the best deal....Read More

September 13, 2011 News Releases Commissioner suggests auto policy checkup OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners urge consumers to take time for an annual review of their auto insurance policies. "Building a relationship with a local agent can result in getting the right coverage at the right price, with personalized service," Commissioner Doak said Tuesday. "Of course, today consumers also can...Read More

September 7, 2011 News Releases Doak seeks federal health care law waiver to protect Oklahomans’ access to insurance Doak seeks federal health care law waiver to protect Oklahomans’ access to insurance   Oklahoma City – In an effort to protect access to health insurance for Oklahoma consumers, state Insurance Commissioner John Doak on Thursday sought a waiver on a major provision of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.   Doak last week requested an adjustment from the U.S. Department of Health and...Read More

September 2, 2011 News Releases Doak Urges Family Conversation with a Professional about the Necessity of Life Insurance OKLAHOMA CITY - Insuranceis a product that you can't see or touch, and is often the last thing on your mind until you need it. Life insurance in particular is an often overlooked necessity that protects your family and legacy in the event of your untimely death. Oklahoma City government has declared September Life Insurance Awareness Month. Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak says that's an appreciated and valuable...Read More

September 1, 2011 News Releases Commissioner Doak views OKC wildfire damage, thanks firefighters for their response Oklahoma City – Insurance Commissioner John Doak and a Consumer Assistance team from the Oklahoma Insurance Department joined state Rep. Mike Shelton (D-97) Thursday to witness firsthand the damage caused by a multi-day wildfire in northeast Oklahoma City. The fire is one of dozens to strike across the state during this hot, dry Oklahoma summer. Though the scene in northeast Oklahoma City is not yet completely secure and damage...Read More

August 29, 2011 News Releases OID Assistant Commissioner Rick Farmer Meets With African Officials Regarding International Standard MBABNE, Swaziland – International standards are useful to protect Oklahoma’s insurance policyholders. Assistant Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Dr. Rick Farmer discussed these standards with insurance regulators in Johannesburg, South Africa and Mbabane, Swaziland last week. Farmer met with the Financial Services Board in Johannesburg, which regulates insurance in South Africa. In addition, he met with the Retirement...Read More

August 25, 2011 News Releases Workers’ compensation insurance analyst files request to decrease Oklahoma rates in 2012 Oklahoma City – Insurance Commissioner John Doak said today that the company which manages the nation’s largest database of workers’ compensation insurance information has filed a request with the Oklahoma Insurance Department to decrease the cost of workers’ compensation insurance in Oklahoma. Doak reported that the National Council on Compensation Insurance Inc. (NCCI) filed to reduce workers’ compensation...Read More

August 22, 2011 Legal Notices 11-0600-EMG Declaration of Emergency & Order Extension of May 21-22 severe outbreak of spring storms BEFORE THE INSURANCE COMMISSIONER OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA In Re:  Declaration of Emergency Pursuant to Section 6218 of the Oklahoma Insurance Code Case No.  11-0600-EMG EXTENSION OF DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY AND ORDER               The State of Oklahoma, ex rel. John Doak, Insurance Commissioner, on this 19thday of August, 2011, issues this...Read More

August 22, 2011 Legal Notices 11-0673-EMG Declaration of Emergency and Order Extension Jun 14-15 severe outbreak of spring storms BEFORE THE INSURANCE COMMISSIONER OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA In Re:  Declaration of Emergency Pursuant to Section 6218 of the Oklahoma Insurance Code Case No.  11-0673-EMG EXTENSION OF DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY AND ORDER               The State of Oklahoma, ex rel. John Doak, Insurance Commissioner, on this 19thday of August, 2011, issues this...Read More

August 22, 2011 Legal Notices 11-0584-EMG Declaration of Emergency and Order -Extension May 12-13 severe outbreak of spring storms BEFORE THE INSURANCE COMMISSIONER OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA In Re:  Declaration of Emergency Pursuant to Section 6218 of the Oklahoma Insurance Code Case No.  11-0584-EMG EXTENSION OF DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY AND ORDER               The State of Oklahoma, ex rel. John Doak, Insurance Commissioner, on this 19thday of August, 2011, issues this...Read More

August 16, 2011 Commissioner's Corner Understanding Faith-Based Options for Health Care By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner With health care costs escalating and the federal government grasping for control of everything from the purse strings to your choice of doctors, specialists and treatments, many Oklahomans are searching for innovative, individualized ways to achieve wellness. Among those options are faith-based health-care “sharing ministries.” Often invoking Scripture such as Galations...Read More

August 12, 2011 News Releases Doak Pleased By Appeals Court Ruling on PPACA O KLAHOMA C ITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak was pleased with Friday’s ruling by the 11 th Circuit Court of Appeals in Atlanta, which overturned a key component of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act during its review of an earlier ruling by a Florida judge in a legal challenge of the federal law filed by 26 states, including Oklahoma. The appellate court struck down...Read More

August 12, 2011 Commissioner's Corner Schools Are Open, Be Prepared By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner In communities across Oklahoma, schools are back in session. Each new school year is a time for individual growth and exciting opportunities. But as each child climbs the ladder of grades on the way to adulthood, he or she presents parents with many choices to make – including insurance-related decisions. It’s inevitable – when kids head back to classrooms, some of...Read More

August 11, 2011 Legal Notices 11-0829-EMG Declaration of Emergency and Order ( Aug 8 -10, 2011: severe outbreak of summer storms) BEFORE THE INSURANCE COMMISSIONER OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA In Re:  Declaration of Emergency Pursuant to Section 6218 of the Oklahoma Insurance Code Case No.  11-0829-EMG DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY AND ORDER               The State of Oklahoma, ex rel. John Doak, Insurance Commissioner, on this 11thday of August, 2011, issues this order based upon the...Read More

August 11, 2011 News Releases Insurance Department Fines Service Warranty Company For Operating Without License The Oklahoma Insurance Department has fined an unlicensed service warranty company $25,000 for violations of the Unauthorized Insurance Business Act and the Service Warranty Act. Choice Home Warranty was fined $25,000 for operating without an Oklahoma Insurance Department license. In July 2010, a cease and desist order was issued to the company for similar violations of state law. However, the company continued to do business and currently...Read More

August 4, 2011 Commissioner's Corner Beating Heat, Avoiding Injury Key as Fall Sports Seasons Arrive By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner August is here, bringing football season along with it, though the temperatures might try to convince us otherwise. Whether your child is competing on the gridiron or in one of the other fall sports offered by schools and youth programs in your community, it is wise to keep them safe through smart practice habits. I help coach youth football and the attention paid to player wellness in...Read More

July 27, 2011 News Releases Former Okmulgee Insurance Office Worker Charged With Bilking Agency and Its Customers   A former Okmulgee insurance agency employee has been charged with embezzlement following an investigation by the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Anti-Fraud Unit. Investigators say Deneice C. Carter, 28, embezzled funds totaling $960.88 from her employer McManus Insurance Agency of Okmulgee, through a series of smaller fraudulent transactions that took place during June and July 2008. “This case shows that the...Read More

July 26, 2011 Commissioner's Corner Smokers: It’s Time to Quit, and We Can Help By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner About one in five Americans is a smoker. In the Sooner State that figure is even higher. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 23.7 percent of Oklahomans have a smoking habit, third in the nation behind only West Virginia (26.8 percent) and Kentucky (24.8 percent). It’s a deadly habit that we at the Oklahoma Insurance Department want to help break....Read More

July 18, 2011 Legal Notices 11-0442-EMG Extension Declaration of Emergency and Order (Extension of Apr 8 & 9, 2011 wind & hail) BEFORE THE INSURANCE COMMISSIONER OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA In Re:  Declaration of Emergency Pursuant to Section 6218 of the Oklahoma Insurance Code Case No.  11-0442-EMG EXTENSION OF DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY AND ORDER               The State of Oklahoma, ex rel. John Doak, Insurance Commissioner, on this 15th day of July, 2011, and issues this...Read More

July 18, 2011 Legal Notices 11-0484-EMG Extension Declaration of Emergency and Order (Extension of Apr 14-15 severe outbreak...) BEFORE THE INSURANCE COMMISSIONER OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA In Re:  Declaration of Emergency Pursuant to Section 6218 of the Oklahoma Insurance Code Case No.  11-0484-EMG EXTENSION OF DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY AND ORDER               The State of Oklahoma, ex rel. John Doak, Insurance Commissioner, on this 15th day of July, 2011, issues this...Read More

July 18, 2011 Legal Notices 11-0515-EMG Extension Declaration of Emergency and Order (Extension of April 20 - 25) BEFORE THE INSURANCE COMMISSIONER OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA In Re:  Declaration of Emergency Pursuant to Section 6218 of the Oklahoma Insurance Code Case No.  11-0515-EMG   EXTENSION OF DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY AND ORDER               The State of Oklahoma, ex rel. John Doak, Insurance Commissioner, on this 15th day of July, 2011,...Read More

July 15, 2011 News Releases OID Anti-Fraud Unit Investigation Results in Felony Charge Against Former Edmond Agent A former Edmond insurance agent faces a felony charge of embezzlement as the result of an investigation by the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Anti-Fraud Unit. Insurance Commissioner John Doak and Attorney General Scott Pruitt have publicly partnered in an effort to crack down on insurance crimes in Oklahoma. Investigators at the Insurance Department found evidence that William J. Liebl, 30, of Okarche, defrauded a local couple by...Read More

July 15, 2011 Legal Notices 11-0484-EMG Declaration of Emergency and Order (April 14-15 severe outbreak spring storms - Amended) BEFORE THE INSURANCE COMMISSIONER OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA In Re:  Declaration of Emergency Pursuant to Section 6218 of the Oklahoma Insurance Code Case No.  11-0484-EMG   EXTENSION OF DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY AND ORDER             The State of Oklahoma, ex rel. John Doak, Insurance Commissioner, on this 15th day of July, 2011, issues this...Read More

July 15, 2011 Legal Notices 11-0442-EMG (April 8 and 9, 2011 wind and hail storms - Amended) BEFORE THE INSURANCE COMMISSIONER OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA In Re:  Declaration of Emergency Pursuant to Section 6218 of the Oklahoma Insurance Code Case No.  11-0442-EMG EXTENSION OF DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY AND ORDER               The State of Oklahoma, ex rel. John Doak, Insurance Commissioner, on this 15th day of July, 2011, and issues this...Read More

July 14, 2011 News Releases Doak Names Farmers Insurance Group's Pepper Williams as First Insurance Professional of the Month In a new effort to recognize members of the insurance industry for their contributions to consumers and community, Insurance Commissioner John Doak named Farmers Insurance Group District Manager Pepper Williams as the first recipient of the Oklahoma Insurance Professional of the Month Award. Doak, who took office in January, instituted the monthly awards program through the Oklahoma Insurance Department to commend insurance agents,...Read More

July 1, 2011 News Releases Insurance Department’s Consumer Assistance Recovers $2.6 Million for Oklahomans (OKLAHOMA CITY) The Oklahoma Insurance Department’s Consumer Assistance Division recovered $2.6 million in benefits for Oklahomans during the first half of the year, Commissioner John Doak announced today. “Insurance can be a complex and sometimes confusing product,” Doak said. “Often people do not understand to what they are entitled or how to deal with insurance companies during disputes. Other times, mistakes...Read More

June 29, 2011 News Releases Insurance Department Revokes Agent’s License (OKLAHOMA CITY)  The Oklahoma Insurance Department has revoked the license of an insurance producer after the individual pleaded to a crime related to the breach of fiduciary trust. “One of my primary responsibilities is to protect the consumers of Oklahoma from unscrupulous individuals,” Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak said. “This is a classic case where someone acted in a way that barred them from working...Read More

June 28, 2011 Commissioner's Corner Fourth of July Fun Depends on Fireworks Safety Fundamentals By John D.  Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Most Americans look forward to the Fourth of July for more than just the day off it provides. Usually, Independence Day is also a time for family and neighborhood togetherness, good food, and fun in the outdoors. Don’t spoil the good times with mishandled fireworks. The National Fire Protection Agency notes there are more blazes reported on Independence Day in the...Read More

June 24, 2011 Commissioner's Corner Life’s Turns Can Take Your Car Insurance In a Different Direction By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Financial challenges have forced many Oklahoma consumers to make lifestyle changes to adapt in the current economy. Sometimes those changes can inadvertently cost you – or save you money – on your car insurance. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners reports that 53 percent of Americans have made economically driven life-changes in the past year that could...Read More

June 15, 2011 Legal Notices 11-0673-EMG Declaration of Emergency and Order (June 14th- June 15 severe outbreak of spring storms) BEFORE THE INSURANCE COMMISSIONER OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA    In Re:  Declaration of Emergency Pursuant to Section 6218 of the Oklahoma Insurance Code Case No.  11-0673-EMG  DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY AND ORDER             The State of Oklahoma, ex rel. John Doak, Insurance Commissioner, on this 15th day of June, 2011, issues this order...Read More

June 7, 2011 Commissioner's Corner Ensuring the Security of Prepaid Funeral Trusts By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Though the dollar figures involved are not in the millions, the broken trust can leave a victim emotionally bankrupt: Anti-fraud investigators in my department recently investigated a former Oklahoma funeral director for misusing nearly $10,000 in prepaid funeral funds from the accounts of two couples and one other individual. Cooperating with the office of Max Cook, District Attorney...Read More

June 7, 2011 News Releases DOAK REQUESTS ATTORNEY GENERAL’S OPINION REGARDING DRIVING RECORD FEE (OKLAHOMA CITY) Insurance Commissioner John Doak has requested that the attorney general determine whether a 2010 bill increasing the costs of driving records was properly enacted by the Legislature. “Driving records are routinely required to determine the appropriate premium rate for auto insurance,” Doak said. “Even if this higher fee is paid by a consumer’s insurer, the fee is indirectly passed on to all Oklahoma...Read More

May 26, 2011 News Releases Commissioner Doak Urges Oklahomans Not to Leave Children in Vehicles Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak warned the state’s residents on Thursday about the fatal dangers of leaving unattended children inside vehicles. Doak said, “2010 was a record year for hyperthermia deaths of children in the United States, with 49 youngsters reportedly killed after being left in cars, according to the Department of Geosciences at California’s San Francisco State University.” He added,...Read More

May 26, 2011 Commissioner's Corner Beat the Heat: Don’t Leave Children Alone in Vehicles By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Memorial Day is the symbolic start of summer. The school year ends for most children. Families plan their summer vacations. And, across America, statistics tell us that dozens of children will die when left alone in hot vehicles. It pains me to be the bearer of such alarming news. But in 2010, according to the Department of Geosciences at California’s San Francisco State...Read More

May 25, 2011 News Releases Commissioner Doak Declares Emergency Following Tornado Outbreak (OKLAHOMA CITY) Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak issued an emergency order Wednesday that will enable licensed out-of-state claims adjustors to immediately assist Oklahomans who suffered damage and losses from Tuesday’s tornado outbreak. “This order will help Oklahomans begin to recover from Tuesday’s tornadoes by permitting Oklahoma insurers to bring licensed adjustors from out-of-state to assist in the claims...Read More

May 25, 2011 Consumer Alerts Insurance Commissioner John Doak offers advice for Oklahomans after the recent tornado outbreak Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak offered the following advice for Oklahomans dealing with damage from Tuesday’s tornado outbreak:  What to Do if Your Home is Damaged: Call your insurance company or agent with your policy number and all relevant information as soon as possible. Cooperate fully with your company or agent, asking what forms, documents and data you will need to provide in order to process your claim....Read More

May 25, 2011 Legal Notices 11-0600-EMG Declaration of Emergency and Order (May 21-25 severe outbreak of spring storms-Amended) BEFORE THE INSURANCE COMMISSIONER OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA In Re:  Declaration of Emergency Pursuant to Section 6218 of the Oklahoma Insurance Code  Case No.  11-0600-EMG   AMENDED DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY AND ORDER              The State of Oklahoma, ex rel. John Doak, Insurance Commissioner, on this 25th day of May, 2011, issues this...Read More

May 24, 2011 Legal Notices 11-0600-EMG Declaration of Emergency and Order (May 21 - 22 severe outbreak of spring storms) BEFORE THE INSURANCE COMMISSIONER OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA In Re:  Declaration of Emergency Pursuant to Section 6218 of the Oklahoma Insurance Code  Case No.  11-0600-EMG   DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY AND ORDER              The State of Oklahoma, ex rel. John Doak, Insurance Commissioner, on this 23rd day of May, 2011, issues this order based...Read More

May 18, 2011 News Releases Commissioner Doak urges House to pass, governor to sign uninsured motorist legislation (OKLAHOMA CITY) Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak urged members of the House to approve and Gov. Mary Fallin to sign SB 272, a bill that prohibits uninsured motorists from obtaining pain and suffering awards in civil court.   “Driving is a privilege, not a right,” said Doak, who has more than 20 years of experience in the insurance industry. “In order to exercise that privilege, we require that drivers...Read More

May 17, 2011 News Releases Commissioner Doak returns federal grant, urges approval of SB 722 creating health care compacts OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Insurance Department formally notified federal officials this month that it is returning nearly $1 million in ObamaCare funds, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak announced Tuesday, while urging Gov. Mary Fallin to sign legislation that would reaffirm Oklahoma’s control over health care issues. “This is the fulfillment of my campaign promise to protect Oklahomans by opposing ObamaCare...Read More

May 13, 2011 Legal Notices 11-0584-EMG Declaration of Emergency and Order (May 12-13 severe outbreak of spring storms) BEFORE THE INSURANCE COMMISSIONER OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA In Re:  Declaration of Emergency Pursuant to Section 6218 of the Oklahoma Insurance Code  Case No.  11-0584-EMG DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY AND ORDER              The State of Oklahoma, ex rel. John Doak, Insurance Commissioner, on this 13th day of May, 2011, issues this order based upon the...Read More

May 9, 2011 Legal Notices 11-0515-EMG Declaration of Emergency and Order (April 20-25 severe outbreak spring storms) Amended In Re:  Declaration of Emergency Pursuant to Section 6218 of the Oklahoma Insurance Code  Case No.  11-0515-EMG AMENDED DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY AND ORDER               The State of Oklahoma, ex rel. John Doak, Insurance Commissioner, on this 9th day of May, 2011, issues this order based upon the following findings and conclusions of law, to wit:...Read More

May 5, 2011 News Releases Insurance Commissioner John Doak Supports Boating Under The Influence Legislation OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak expressed his support Thursday of legislation that would lower the legal blood alcohol concentration for Boating Under the Influence. “As Oklahoma’s Insurance Commissioner, I often stress the importance of properly insuring one’s personal property. Equally important, however, is proper and safe operation and use of that property, particularly automobiles and...Read More

May 5, 2011 News Releases Funeral Director Charged in Creek, Okfuskee Counties for Prepaid Funeral Frauds OKLAHOMA CITY – Anti-fraud experts from the Oklahoma Insurance Department and the Creek County District Attorney’s Office have collaborated to investigate and charge a former funeral director from Bristow for misusing funds intended to provide prepaid burial services. Ronald C. Schumacher, 62, was arrested in Creek County Wednesday and charged with three crimes in connection with his alleged mishandling of $4,513.82 in...Read More

May 5, 2011 Commissioner's Corner Play It Safe and Insure for Summer Fun That Is Secure By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Memorial Day is right around the corner, bringing with it a summer season filled with fun on Oklahoma’s highways, byways and waterways. It’s wise to follow all safety rules and to consider appropriate insurance coverage to protect your life, health and property, minimizing the chance that your good time will be spoiled. Boats The personal property coverage in your...Read More

April 28, 2011 Commissioner's Corner When at the Wheel, Protect Yourself from the Uninsured By John Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Next time you are commuting to work, taking the kids to school, or out running a few errands in the family car, carefully look around you at all the other vehicles on the streets and highways in your part of Oklahoma. Then consider the fact that statistics suggest one in every four of those motorists with whom you share the road is driving without insurance. Although carrying insurance...Read More

April 26, 2011 Legal Notices 11-0515-EMG Declaration of Emergency and Order (April 22-25 severe outbreak spring storms) BEFORE THE INSURANCE COMMISSIONER OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA In Re:  Declaration of Emergency Pursuant to Section 6218 of the Oklahoma Insurance Code  Case No.  11-0515-EMG   DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY AND ORDER               The State of Oklahoma, ex rel. John Doak, Insurance Commissioner, on this 26thday of April, 2011, issues this...Read More

April 25, 2011 News Releases Oklahoma Insurance Department hosts anti-fraud experts (Oklahoma City) - Nearly 150 members of law enforcement, special investigators and executives from insurance companies, and licensed adjusters gathered in Oklahoma City recently to take part in the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s 2011 Anti-Fraud Task Force. The event on the afternoon of April 13 was organized by Randy Brogdon, OID’s deputy commissioner of fraud and consumer affairs. Insurance Commissioner John Doak and Oklahoma...Read More

April 20, 2011 News Releases Doak Comments on Anti-Abortion Bills Doak Praises Approval of Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act, Legislation Requiring Separate Abortion Coverage Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak today praised the House and Senate for its approval of and Gov. Mary Fallin for signing HB 1888, the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act, and SB 547, which ensures that standard health insurance policies sold in Oklahoma do not include elective abortion coverage....Read More

April 15, 2011 Legal Notices 11-0484-EMG Declaration of Emergency and Order (April 14-15 Severe Outbreak Spring Storms) BEFORE THE INSURANCE COMMISSIONER OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA In Re:  Declaration of Emergency Pursuant to Section 6218 of the Oklahoma Insurance Code   Case No.  11-0484-EMG     DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY AND ORDER             The State of Oklahoma, ex rel. John Doak, Insurance Commissioner, on this 15thday of April, 2011, issues this...Read More

April 14, 2011 News Releases Commissioner Doak to Return ObamaCare Grant Oklahoma City, OK - Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak announced Thursday that he will return a $1 million ObamaCare grant that was accepted by his predecessor. "I believe it is in the best interest of the Insurance Department and the state to return this grant, which was accepted by my predecessor," Doak said. "Oklahoma voters made their voices heard loud and clear in November that they do not want ObamaCare....Read More

April 13, 2011 News Releases Attorney General Pruitt and Insurance Commissioner Doak Announce Joint Focus on Claimant Fraud OKLAHOMA CITY – Attorney General Scott Pruitt and Insurance Commissioner John Doak today announced plans to revamp and streamline how insurance fraud is investigated and prosecuted in Oklahoma. "Fraud of any kind is a very serious matter in Oklahoma. We are very pleased these discussions embody an increased level of cooperation and shared responsibility between our two offices to investigate fraud," Pruitt said....Read More

April 11, 2011 Legal Notices 11-0442-EMG Declaration of Emergency and Order (April 8 and 9, 2011 wind and hail storms) BEFORE THE INSURANCE COMMISSIONER OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA In Re:  Declaration of Emergency Pursuant to Section 6218 of the Oklahoma Insurance Code  Case No.  11-0442-EMG   DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY AND ORDER               The State of Oklahoma, ex rel. John Doak, Insurance Commissioner, on this 11thday of April, 2011, and issues this...Read More

April 7, 2011 News Releases Commissioner Doak Recovers $50-plus Million for Ratepayers Oklahoma City - A Louisiana Supreme Court decision awarding Oklahoma approximately $51 million means most claims resulting from the insolvency of an Oklahoma health maintenance organization likely will be paid, Insurance Commissioner John Doak announced Wednesday. “This is great news for unpaid claimants of AmCare Health Plans of Oklahoma,” Doak said. “It is believed that most claims against the company will...Read More

April 6, 2011 Commissioner's Corner Shaken But Not Broke: The Value of Earthquake Insurance By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Parts of Oklahoma are at moderate risk for earthquakes. Oklahoma Emergency Management notes that 2010 and 2011 have seen an increase in earthquake activity in the state. Earthquakes can cause a great deal of damage that won’t be covered under your typical homeowners or renters policy. Are you sufficiently insured? Earthquake insurance can be purchased either separately and...Read More

March 31, 2011 News Releases Commissioner Doak Issues Emergency Cease and Desist Order Oklahoma City – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak issued an emergency cease and desist order Wednesday against Eagle Actuary Corporation and Terry L. McCrackin for violations of the Oklahoma Insurance Code. The order states that Eagle Actuary Corporation and McCrackin "…have acted as an insurance company without having a certificate of authority and without complying with specific requirements for authorized...Read More

March 28, 2011 Commissioner's Corner Take Inventory to Insure What is Yours By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner When choosing a homeowners’ insurance policy, most consumers probably think about the cost to replace their house and not the value of all the items inside. But when determining your coverage needs, it is crucial to understand that your personal property deserves protection, too, and an up-to-date home inventory is a vital part of this process. The average claim payment for...Read More

March 25, 2011 News Releases Doak promises to protect Oklahoma values in NAIC address Austin, TX - Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak promised Friday to protect Oklahoma values in the development of a state-based health insurance exchange during a speech at the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ national spring meeting. "I told the committee members that I have been and remain opposed to ObamaCare," Doak said, "but I am a businessman. I know you have to have a backup plan. I...Read More

March 21, 2011 News Releases Insurance Commissioner Doak Urges Spring Storm Preparation Oklahoma City – The start of spring traditionally marks the start of severe weather season and an increased risked risk of property damage from wind, rain, hail, floods and tornadoes, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak reminded Oklahomans on Tuesday. "Records show that two-thirds of Oklahoma’s tornadoes occur from March to May," Doak said. "While tornadoes may have the highest potential for significant...Read More

March 17, 2011 News Releases Doak Praises Senate Approval of SB 722, Urges House Passage Oklahoma City – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak praised members of the Senate Thursday who approved Senate Bill 722, a measure that would establish the provisions for Oklahoma to join an interstate health care compact to empower state legislatures, rather than the federal government, to continue dealing with health care issues. "I have always opposed the federal takeover of our health care system that was approved by...Read More

March 16, 2011 Commissioner's Corner Ask and Answer These Questions in Your Annual Insurance Checkup By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Whether you rent or own a home it is wise to review all of your insurance policies annually to be certain you have the right type of coverage, and for the right values. When performing an annual insurance review, first answer these three questions: 1. What type of coverage do I have? Homeowners’ vs. Renter’s Insurance:A homeowners’ policy covers the structure,...Read More

March 8, 2011 Commissioner's Corner Packing for Spring Break? Include Insurance Checklists By John D. Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner From the time students head back to school after Christmas, one thing is on their minds – spring break. But sometimes the fun is spoiled, so hoping for the best but preparing for the worst is wise, especially for parents about to send their children out for spring break on their own. Preparation Basics Before any trip, it is a good idea to review your insurance. If an older...Read More

March 1, 2011 Commissioner's Corner Do not Get Soaked by Floodwaters, Coverage Available Through the National Flood Insurance Program By John Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner March is Flood Insurance Month, so there’s no time like the present to consider flood insurance. It isn’t unusual for parts of Oklahoma to face drought conditions one day and receive a month’s worth of rain the next. That was the situation last June 14 when areas in Oklahoma City reported more than 10 inches of rain in less than 24 hours. Standard homeowners insurance...Read More

February 16, 2011 Commissioner's Corner American Heart Month Prompts Consideration of Added Protection By John Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner The American Heart Association and American Stroke Association designate February as American Heart Month, an ideal time to consider whether supplemental insurance to cover heart-related conditions is right for you. Every year, more Americans die from cardiovascular diseases than from all cancers and accidents combined, and heart disease is the No. 1 killer of American women. The National...Read More

February 7, 2011 Commissioner's Corner Valentine’s Day’s Life-Changing Moments Prompt Insurance Questions By John Doak, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Valentine’s Day is upon us, and romance is in the air. Have you considered the insurance ramifications? The Diamond Information Center estimates that one in every 10 American married couples became engaged on Valentine’s Day. Many other couples choose the holiday as their wedding day.  That makes Valentine’s Day a date of life-changing moments. So beyond...Read More

February 4, 2011 Legal Notices 11-001-EMG Extension Declaration of Emergency and Order (Extension of February 1, 2011) BEFORE THE INSURANCE COMMISSIONER OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA In Re:  Declaration of Emergency Pursuant to Section 6218 of the Oklahoma Insurance Code Case No.  11-001-EMG   AMENDED DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY AND ORDER               The State of Oklahoma, ex rel. John Doak, Insurance Commissioner, on this 4thday of February, 2011, and issues...Read More

February 2, 2011 News Releases Commissioner Doak Declares Emergency Following Winter Storm Oklahoma City – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak issued an emergency order Tuesday that will enable licensed out-of-state claims adjustors to immediately assist Oklahomans who suffered damage and losses from this week’s winter storm. "This order will help Oklahomans begin to recover from the winter storm by permitting Oklahoma insurers to bring licensed adjustors from out-of-state to assist in the claims...Read More

February 1, 2011 Legal Notices 11-001-EMG Declaration of Emergency and Order (Storms covering February 1, 2011) BEFORE THE INSURANCE COMMISSIONER OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA   In Re: Declaration of Emergency Pursuant to Section 6218 of the   Oklahoma Insurance Code.   Case No. 11-001-EMG   DECLARATION OF EMERGENCY AND ORDER   COMES NOW the State of Oklahoma ex rel. John Doak, Insurance Commissioner, on this 1st day of February, 2011, and issues this order based upon the following...Read More

February 1, 2011 News Releases Doak Organizes Catastrophe Response Task Force     Oklahoma City – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak announced Tuesday the formation of a catastrophe response task force to coordinate efforts of the department and the industry in the aftermath of the winter storm.  “This is the first time the department has joined with the industry to coordinate efforts in the aftermath of a catastrophe such as this,” Doak said. “Undoubtedly,...Read More

January 31, 2011 News Releases Doak: Florida judge made right decision OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak said U.S. District Judge Roger Vinson made the right decision Monday when he ruled that Congress exceeded its authority when it passed federal health care reform in 2010.  “Judge Vinson hit the nail on the head when he said Congress exceeded the bounds of its authority in passing the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act with a requirement that every individual...Read More

January 28, 2011 Consumer Alerts Drought Conditions Prompt Wildfire Warnings, Burn Bans in Oklahoma Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak notes that officials in 10 central and south ‐ central counties of the state enacted bans on outdoor burning this month in response to persistent dry conditions. The most recent U.S. Drought Monitor reports severe drought in central Oklahoma, primarily the Oklahoma City metro area. Portions of southeastern Oklahoma, including the region around Hugo, also are considered to...Read More

January 25, 2011 News Releases Doak Responds to State of the Union Address Commissioner Doak Praises President Obama, Senator Coburn  Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak on Tuesday commended President Barack Obama for a State of the Union address delivered in a conciliatory tone, to a Congressional body that chose to emphasize civility and unity on a night that typically is devoted to partisan agendas and rhetoric. The president called for input on his 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care...Read More

January 21, 2011 News Releases Commissioner Doak Gives Tips on Traveling in Winter Weather O KLAHOMA C ITY – Prompted by three traffic fatalities attributed to slick road conditions on Thursday, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak today urged Sooner State motorists to be better prepared for wintry weather before traveling, and to use more caution once on the road.   The Oklahoma Highway Patrol reported the deaths of a 70-year-old man in a rollover accident in Marshall County,...Read More

January 20, 2011 News Releases Anti-Fraud Division Refocused and Upgraded OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak today announced a reorganization of the department’s anti-fraud division.  The reorganization comes at the behest of Deputy Commissioner Randy Brogdon, Doak’s chief advisor in the areas of consumer affairs, fraud and advocacy for seniors. Brogdon told Doak that the state’s insurance investigators were spending most of their time investigating citizens...Read More

January 19, 2011 News Releases Commissioner Doak Responds to Wednesday’s Congressional Vote Oklahoma City -Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak on Wednesday applauded the 112th Congress for its vote to repeal the expensive, restrictive and unconstitutional mandates placed on states and consumers under recent federal health care reforms known as the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Doak previously joined a federal lawsuit against the reforms, and supported Oklahoma State Question 756, which permitted Oklahoma to...Read More

January 18, 2011 Commissioner's Corner Medicare Update: Dates and Benefit Changes Seniors Should Know If you’re a senior who relies on Medicare, you should be aware of changes to the program this year that could affect your benefits. As with every enrollment season, there are important points you should consider when evaluating your coverage needs. The Oklahoma Insurance Department offers this information to help you wisely consider your options. The enrollment deadline for Medicare Advantage Plans and Prescription Drug Plans...Read More

January 13, 2011 News Releases Commissioner Doak Gives Tips to Winterize Your Home, Protect Your Investment Oklahoma City - Recent bitterly cold temperatures prompt Insurance Commissioner John Doak to offer Oklahomans the following winter-weather emergency tips. What to Do if Your Home is Damaged Call your insurance company or agent with your policy number and all relevant information as soon as possible. Cooperate fully with your company or agent, asking what forms, documents and data you will need to provide in order to process your...Read More

January 12, 2011 News Releases Commissioner Doak Congratulates Predecessor Doak looks forward to working with Holland to improve Oklahoma The Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) announced on Tuesday former Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Kim Holland will be joining the BCBSA’s Washington office as Executive Director responsible for State Affairs. "I wish the very best to Ms. Holland regarding her new position," said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak. "The Department...Read More