The political wing of PIANY strengthens your association’s credibility as a serious political force in New York state elections.

Donor Profile

Jason E. Bartow, AAI, CPIA, TRA

 

Q. What is your insurance origin story?

Is this like a superhero origin story—how I was born on the planet Coveragii and was sent here to write policies? Actually, once my internship with the Yankees ended, I needed a place to work and figure out my future. My father, who owned the agency, told me to come work for him while I searched. That was 25 years ago, and I’m still figuring it out. 

Q. What first sparked your interest in supporting the Agents Advocacy Coalition and its causes?

I’ve always been politically active. I was a national staffer and convention staffer for Bill Clinton in 1992 and a New York director for Bill Bradley in 2000. When I started working with the New York Young Insurance Professionals, I realized how misunderstood insurance was at both the state and federal levels. I wanted to be a voice for my insureds and help affect policy changes that benefit them. I’m always amazed when talking to legislators just how many misconceptions there are about our industry. 

Q. In your opinion, what are the most important issues or policies the Agents Advocacy Coalition is helping to support?

Right now, the AAC is on a hot streak. It has assisted PIANY in being successful with photo inspection reform, and we’re waiting on the governor to sign the windstorm standardization bill and Coastal Market Assistance Program expansion bill. We’ve also got important work ahead on issues like the anti-arson bill, excess-line reform, e-bikes and tort reform. 

Q. If you could give one piece of advice to potential new donors considering supporting the AAC, what would it be?

Every dollar counts. The AAC is careful with its resources, and while we’re always outspent by carriers, legal groups and corporations that oppose our priorities, every donation helps. It allows us to educate legislators on why we support the policies we do. It may seem like a small contribution, but each one helps us expand our reach. 

Q. Lastly, can you give readers one book, movie, or show recommendation?

For a book, I’d recommend All Roads Home by Bryan Trottier. My movie recommendation is The Princess Bride, and for a show, it’s got to be Ted Lasso. 

 

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