Untrustworthy Insurance Agents Will Lose Licenses in Washington

Insurance agents in Washington state can lose their licenses if they are deemed “untrustworthy.”

In an important decision, the Washington State Court of Appeals ruled that Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler was correct in revoking insurance agent Jack Chandler’s license based on the fact that he had shown himself to be untrustworthy in his sales conduct with elderly consumers.

The court also agreed with the commissioner that Chandler attempted to exploit senior citizens by using misleading marketing tactics to get them to buy reverse mortgages, living trusts and long-term care insurance. He also misrepresented himself on his Washington licensing application when he failed to disclose complaints against him in California.

As a result of Chandler’s actions, the insurance commissioner revoked his insurance license in 2002. Chandler appealed that decision on the grounds that the term “untrustworthy” is unconstitutionally vague and subjective. The court disagreed and upheld the license revocation. Chandler then attempted to appeal to the Washington State Supreme Court, but his petition for review was denied.

“Mr. Chandler preyed on some of our most vulnerable citizens and I cannot allow that to happen,” Kreidler said. “While this case took several years to reach conclusion, it was worth every minute. I am very satisfied with the result.”

For more information, visit www.insurance.wa.gov.

Topics Agencies Washington