A federal court’s class certification ruling in Ward v. Liberty Mutual highlights how purchased leads, telemarketing vendors, AI voice tools and TCPA compliance can create major liability for insurance agencies.
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Latest News
World Welcomes Worcester’s Wolpert Insurance
World Insurance Associates has acquired Wolpert Insurance Agency of Worcester, expanding its Massachusetts footprint and transportation specialty capabilities.
Lightning Losses Topped $1.65 Billion in 2025
Lightning losses rose 59% in 2025 as claim severity surged, driven by rising repair costs, inflation, and increased home technology exposure.
A ‘Seamless Experience’ Is What Customers Are Looking For
JD Power’s 2026 Auto Insurance Study found agents resolved 91% of cross-channel customer issues, outperforming websites and apps as customer experience becomes the top driver of satisfaction.
ADALB Moves to Clarify Licensed Appraiser Requirements for Repair Shops
Massachusetts ADALB seeks comment on advisory ruling reaffirming licensed appraiser requirements for insurance-related auto damage appraisals.
Massachusetts Bolstering Efforts to Prevent Wrong-Way Crashes
Massachusetts expands wrong-way driving detection with sensors, signage, and alerts as fatalities rise and safety efforts intensify statewide.
Pet Insurance Market Continues Double-Digit Growth in 2025
Pet insurance premiums hit $5.47B in 2025 with double-digit growth, low penetration, and rising liability risks for insurers and agents.
Risky Business: Economic Uncertainty Remains a Defining Feature of 2026
Gallagher survey finds 94% of business owners fear insurance gaps as cyber, AI, weather, and supply chain risks drive demand for coverage.
Insurance Coverage Cases
Appeals Court Redefines “Contractual Relationship” Under Public Bond Statute
Mass. Appeals Court rules third-party beneficiary rights create a “contractual relationship,” avoiding Section 29’s 65-day bond notice requirement.
Court Rules: ‘Regardless of Whether’ In Exclusion Creates Ambiguity
A Massachusetts Federal court finds insurer must defend Vineyard hangar operator after $1.45M propeller damage claim.
Insurance Fraud
Massachusetts Bolstering Efforts to Prevent Wrong-Way Crashes
Massachusetts expands wrong-way driving detection with sensors, signage, and alerts as fatalities rise and safety efforts intensify statewide.
Guilty Plea in $6 Million Payroll Concealment Scheme
The owner of a Lowell temporary staffing agency pleaded guilty in federal court to concealing more than $6 million in payroll and obtaining workers’ compensation coverage using false payroll records.
Ratings & Results
Best’s Special Report: Personal Auto and Homeowners Markets’ Stabilization Evident Despite a Decline in Approved Rate Changes
AM Best Downgrades Arrow Mutual Liability Insurance Company Ratings
Liberty Mutual Posts $2 Billion Quarter as It Shifts from Defense to Growth
$14.3M Q1 Loss For Safety: Back-To-Back Storms’ 1600 Claims Cost $42.7M
Record Q1 Results: The Hanover’s Combined Ratio Improves to 91.7%
Vermont Mutual Annual Meeting Shows Strong Results
Economic & Legislative News in Massachusetts
Health Insurers Say Drug Costs, Patient Expectations Tightening Cost Bind
Massachusetts insurers propose average 12.9% premium increases for 2027, citing specialty drug costs and rising provider reimbursement rates.
Report Flags Insurance Woes for Security, Airport Service Workers
New report finds many union security and airport workers lack affordable health coverage, with high uninsured rates despite employer-sponsored plans.
Poll: Fewer Parents Expect Their Kids to Pursue Bachelor’s Degree
New polling shows declining interest in four-year degrees among Massachusetts students, with sharp gaps by income, race, and parental education.
Annual Sales Tax Holiday Set for Weekend of Aug. 8-9
Massachusetts will hold its 2026 sales tax holiday Aug. 8–9, suspending the 6.25% tax on most purchases under $2,500.
Healey Throws Support Behind Happy Hour in Pursuit of ‘Vibrancy’
Gov. Healey backs happy hour and extended last call as Massachusetts tests new nightlife policies aimed at boosting business and retaining young residents.
Court Rejects Bid to Derail Marijuana Ballot Question
Massachusetts SJC rules AG’s summary fair and allows marijuana repeal ballot question to advance toward the November election.
Company Newswire
Arbella Insurance Foundation Raises Over $214,000 for Hunger Relief Programs Across New England
Arbella Insurance Foundation raises $214K for hunger relief, supporting 120 food programs across New England amid rising food insecurity.
MassMutual turns 175, Marking Generations of Delivering on its Commitments
MassMutual marks its 175th anniversary, highlighting policyholder focus, $1T in coverage, and a legacy of dividends and community support.
FM and Disney Relaunch ‘Disney Wild About Safety,’ Presented by FM
FM and Disney relaunch the Wild About Safety program, expanding global safety education through updated content and enhanced storytelling.
Patriot Growth Insurance Services Refreshes Brand Identity
Patriot Growth Insurance Services debuts a new brand identity, highlighting its national platform, agency connections, and continued expansion.
