The American Insurance Association (AIA) tapped former California Chamber of Commerce lobbyist Jeremy Merz as its new vice president of State Affairs, Western Region, starting Jan. 9.
“We’re excited to have Jeremy join our state affairs team. His advocacy experience at the California Chamber and extensive legal knowledge on issues crucial to our industry will be a great asset for AIA’s members,” said AIA President and CEO Leigh Ann Pusey.
During his five years as a lobbyist for the California Chamber of Commerce, Merz represented more than 14,000 companies on a range of issues, including workers’ compensation, taxation, privacy, transportation and infrastructure.
“His background in workers’ compensation as a claims case manager and navigating state and federal policy as a private attorney make Jeremy a great fit for our membership. He’ll be a wonderful addition to our California office, working with Katie Pettibone, as AIA strives to achieve sound public policy outcomes, while laying the ground for future initiatives,” added AIA Senior Vice President for State Affairs Joe DiGiovanni.
Prior to joining the California Chamber of Commerce, Merz was an associate with Sacramento law firm, Downey Brand, LLP.
“I’m thrilled to be joining AIA and working with its diverse membership to achieve their public policy goals,” said Merz. “With many legislatures about to convene their 2017 session, I look forward to representing the nation’s leading property-casualty trade association and working with policymakers to promote an efficient regulatory system that benefits insurers and their policyholders.”