When producers speak, PIANH listens—and acts.
In response to growing concerns from insurance producers about troubling trends in the Medicare insurance market, PIANH took decisive action. On Oct. 31, 2025, PIANH sent a formal letter to the New Hampshire Insurance Department, urging the department to investigate carrier practices that appeared to undermine fair competition and consumer access.
Specifically, PIANH highlighted reports of carriers slashing or eliminating producer compensation mid-year—often without notice—and removing access to enrollment materials for certain Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement products. These actions not only jeopardize the livelihoods of licensed producers, but they also threaten the ability of New Hampshire’s senior citizens to make informed coverage decisions with the help of trusted professionals.
PIANH’s letter called on the department to investigate these practices under the state’s Unfair Insurance Trade Practices Act (RSA Section 417:1 et seq.), and to issue clear guidance to ensure transparency, fairness and accountability in the marketplace.
The NHID responded swiftly and decisively. Just days later, the department issued Bulletin INS 25-082-AB, to affirm that the conduct described—if verified—may indeed violate New Hampshire law. The bulletin makes it clear: carriers cannot reduce producer compensation mid-year, obscure access to approved products, or create disincentives that discourage producers from serving Medicare-eligible consumers.
This is a significant win for producers—and for the consumers who rely on them.
PIANH thanks Commissioner D.J. Bettencourt and the NHID for their prompt and thoughtful response. Their action sends a strong message that New Hampshire will not tolerate unfair practices that harm producers or limit consumer choice.
This outcome also underscores the power of advocacy. PIANH’s efforts on behalf of its members helped bring a critical issue to light and prompted meaningful regulatory action. It’s a reminder that when producers raise their voices, and when their association stands behind them, real change is possible.
Bradford J. Lachut, Esq.
Bradford J. Lachut, Esq., joined PIA as government affairs counsel for the Government & Industry Affairs Department in 2012 and then, after a four-month leave, he returned to the association in 2018 as director of government & industry affairs responsible for all legal, government relations and insurance industry liaison programs for the five state associations. Prior to PIA, Brad worked as an attorney for Steven J. Baum PC, in Amherst, and as an associate attorney for the law office of James Morris in Buffalo. He also spent time serving as senior manager of government affairs as the Buffalo Niagara Partnership, a chamber of commerce serving the Buffalo, N.Y., region, his hometown. He received his juris doctorate from Buffalo Law School and his Bachelor of Science degree in Government and Politics from Utica College, Utica, N.Y. Brad is an active Mason and Shriner.
