OHIO DOI TO EXAMINE BID-RIGGING:

The Ohio Department of Insurance is investigating allegations of bid rigging and other sales-related insurance activities both locally and, in conjunction with other states, at the national level, Department of Insurance Director Ann Womer Benjamin announced. The allegations arose from a probe into illegal insurance sales practices in the state of New York. In addition to conducting its own comprehensive investigation, the department is participating in a national investigative effort being coordinated by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. “Ohio’s insurance industry is competitive and well-regulated,” Womer Benjamin said. “However, when potential wrongdoing in the industry comes to light, the scope of which may extend across state lines, we need to move quickly to investigate practices in Ohio to protect Ohio businesses and consumers.”