BIP Winter 2024

T Across all regions, increasing membership and retaining members is a critical goal. Regions are doubling down on strategies like automated outreach programs and clearer communication

The latest focus areas for NABIP’s eight regions reflect the unique dynamics of each sector of the country and highlight the association’s shared priorities and challenges of 2025.

Alaska, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Oregon, Washington T here are NABIP members in Region VIII, and half are in California. In practicality, this makes continuing to support California’s

REGION VIII

channels to engage new members and boost participation. Still, obstacles remain, such as inactive chapters and lingering post-pandemic declines in face-to-face engagement. Meanwhile, leadership development is a priority, with regions emphasizing the importance of succession planning to ensure continuity and build growth. Programs like NABIP’s Leadership Academy and mentorship initiatives aim to equip members with the skills and motivation to take on leadership roles locally, regionally and nationally. Legislative engagement continues to be a unifying effort across regions, though its intensity varies by state. Several regions emphasize the importance of grassroots advocacy in shaping policies before they reach critical stages. From Medicare Advantage commission protections to combating single-payer initiatives, regions are rallying members to work with legislators and contribute to the PAC. The need to inspire more members to step up is a recurring theme. Each region is working to grow event attendance, increase legislative advocacy and strengthen leadership funnels. The ongoing challenge lies in translating these efforts into active involvement in NABIP’s broader mission to shape the future of healthcare and transform the benefits industry for the better.

roughly 2,200

legislative agenda a top priority for the region in 2025. “There, legislative efforts are at a whole other level compared to other states,” says Keith Wallace, Region VIII vice president. While other states in the region, like Wallace’s native Washington, don’t have as much influence on state politics, California NABIP members “are so plugged in that they really do,” Wallace says. He expects NABIP California members to continue to engage with the state’s legislative efforts at a high level, which will help NABIP

36 bip magazine Winter 2024