"We must reform property insurance ratemaking," says Insurance Commissioner Goodwin

As indicated in his public press release here, Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin expressed his appreciation to the members of Legislative Research Committee on Property Insurance Rate Making for their diligent study in the area of homeowners insurance. Goodwin addressed the committee on March 21, 2012, and recommended five ways to improve property insurance rate making through greater transparency in rate filings, public comment periods, more flexibility in the insurance commissioner’s authority to set rates and other measures.

"My job, ultimately, is a balancing act,” said Goodwin. “Consumers want to know they’re getting a fair insurance rate, particularly in the coast areas of North Carolina. The insurance industry wants to know it has the opportunity to make a fair and reasonable profit."

But he stressed how imperative it is that the State reform its property insurance ratemaking laws. "Homeowners' insurance is the insurance crisis in North Carolina, not car insurance," he added. Changes should be targeted so that no there are no negative, unintended consequences, the statewide-elected official posited. The committee issued its final recommendations on April 12. The General Assembly will consider the committee's report and is expected to take up some of the suggestions. To read the full text of the Insurance Commissioner’s remarks, click here at this hyperlink.

State Representative Melanie Wade Goodwin Climbs Higher in Legislative Rankings!

Here's the link to the news story, based on the latest report from the NC Center for Public Policy. Below is an excerpt from the Richmond County Daily Journal reporting on her additional leap of eight more spots to the 23rd slot among 120 House members:

Goodwin, who is not seeking a fourth term in the upcoming election, said she was especially honored with her rise in rankings since she is not seeking reelection.

“My colleagues have given me quite an honor by ranking me this high,” she said Friday.

During her three terms in the legislature, she said she feels her work as the chairwoman of the Election Law and Campaign Finance Reform has had the most impact.

“We’ve made some significant changes in the campaign finance laws to increase transparency in campaign reporting and increase the public’s confidence in their elected representatives ability to account for their campaign funds,” Goodwin said.

The rankings are no surprise, really, because everyone who has had the chance to work with Goodwin and Senator Bill Purcell knows that they are top-shelf, ultra-responsive, excellent public servants. North Carolina's finest they are.

Insurance Commissioner Goodwin Attends, Heralds 2010 NC Economic Forecast Forum

The North Carolina Bankers Association and the North Carolina Chamber of Commerce – in conjunction with many sponsors, including Bank of America, Progress Energy, S&A Cherokee, North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives,
and Duke Energy Corporation – offered a program today providing the first outlook for North Carolina business in the new year.

Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin and many State officials and other business leaders converged at the Progress Energy Performing Arts Center for the daylong Raleigh program. This is the eighth year such a program has been held.

The packed audience heard from a unique panel of experts.

First, attendees listened to observations and valuable information from Secretary of Health and Human Services, Lanier Cansler. His comments, including how some parts of our health system rely on 1970s (!) information technology, prefaced the morning session about health care reform and the pending health insurance legislation in the U.S. Congress.

Many in the audience next awaited comments from Brad Wilson of Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina, who is the incoming CEO of BCBSNC. Joining him in analyzing the health insurance reform legislation were the Dean of the UNC School of Medicine, the CEO of Coldwell Banker Commercial Trademark Properties, Duke University’s Chancellor for Health Affairs, and the Senior Vice President of GlaxoSmithKline.

In addition to the overall analysis of the proposed Congressional health insurance reforms, state Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin noted how each of the panelists stressed that an “individual mandate” was necessary, how the mandate language needed sharper teeth to ensure the largest pool of insureds and lowest costs for consumers, and how the benefits of a strong mandate for health insurance are akin to the public policy behind mandatory automobile insurance that’s been long in force for North Carolina drivers.

Wilson’s description of a “progressive plutocracy” in North Carolina was very interesting to members, prompting several to mention it in the hallways afterward. He stated that business leaders in the State have most often throughout its history advanced measures that benefited public education, public health, and the general citizenry.

He also emphatically underscored how – despite all the animus and frenetic activity in all directions about health insurance and the like over the past year – the State’s future looked bright and positive, so long as North Carolina and its leaders stayed true to that visionary heritage. He said that opportunities abound for good things to happen for all North Carolinians.

After two hours of networking during lunch, an even larger crowd gathered for speeches about North Carolina’s economic forecast.

Given that it was his first day on the job, the remarks from the new President and CEO of Bank of America, Brian T. Moynihan, were greatly anticipated.

Following reflections from Governor Elizabeth Duke of the Federal Reserve System, business leaders and public officials heard the forecast – good and bad – from economist John Connaughton of UNC-Charlotte.

All in all, Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin found the program beneficial.

“As Insurance Commissioner, I know that the health insurance debate and our economic rebound depend in part on the work of the state insurance regulator. For that reason, I had my Chief Deputy Commissioner, Assistant Commissioner, and Legislative Counsel join me in attending today’s successful and enlightening forum.”

The Department of Insurance and your Insurance Commissioner are committed not only to consumer protection but also to North Carolina's economic rebound.

Rep. Melanie Wade Goodwin: On Balancing Motherhood and Public Service

Rep. Melanie Wade Goodwin, as readers of "Wayne's World" and other news posts recall from last year, was the first North Carolina legislator to give birth while serving in the General Assembly. This development led to some changes in the legislature itself at the Legislative Building in Raleigh. Watch this five-minute video here - recorded just a few weeks ago - on how she balanced motherhood and public service. ... On a related note, Melanie's excellent service to the State and in her own community in myriad ways led her to being named last week the recipient of the 2009 Richmond County Citizen of the Year, the county's highest honor.

Chris Heagarty: From Advocate Frying Pan Into the Legislative Fire

It is an unusual set of recent circumstances for my good friend, Chris Heagarty of Raleigh.

For many years he has been a citizen leader advocating for campaign finance reforms and election law changes.

As Executive Director of the North Carolina Center of Voter Education (also known as "The Center" or "NCCVE") for seven years, Chris played a large role in advocating for and recommending substantial improvements to the state's election laws. Unlike some folks currently involved on those subjects, his efforts predate and were bolstered by the various scandals involving Meg Scott Phipps, Jim Black, Frank Ballance, and Thomas Wright.

Among the changes Chris advocated for were:

- greater transparency in campaign reporting
- State-published voter guides mailed to households statewide
- an emphasis on legislative and candidate ethics

as well as

- the nationally-recognized and much-lauded public finance system option for judicial elections and several Council of State posts, experiments that have proven successful, by the way.

To accomplish these feats he was a daily fixture among the Honorables down on Jones Street and sometimes in other settings such as in the courts or speaking at rallies or in press conferences.

Every waking day Chris focused his energy and zeal toward educating voters and encouraging more citizens to be active and engaged in the political process, no matter their party preference.

Chris also focused on voter registration and establishing a partnership with UNC-TV public television so that candidate fora could be broadcast statewide and greater links to information for voters about issues and campaigns could be created.

After taking an almost three year sabbatical in law school, Chris witnessed yet another lawmaker and public official ousted by a serious pattern of major campaign finance violations. This time, though, it was his own State Representative in the North Carolina General Assembly and it was personal.

Chris decided to put theory into practice -- to walk the walk and not just talk the talk: He decided to throw his own hat into the ring for the seat.

After a deftly-organized and successful campaign effort among those persons authorized to select and recommend a replacement in the House seat, Governor Bev Perdue appointed Heagarty to the post last week.

Chris joins the legislature at an awkward time in some respects. It's between sessions, he has to file for election almost immediately, and he is in a swing district that could make the difference in whether the Democrats retain the majority in the House or not. And, on top of that, we're in the midst of the worst economy in 70 years.

But he also faces some high expectations: Chris, as the knight who fought many a battle royale on the outside for clean elections and public financing and good government, is now on the inside and is expected to continue his crusade.

I trust he will prevail, and am very proud of my friend who has chosen this new means of engaging civic participation.

After all, I've personally had the benefit of watching him in action before,
during and after my own years as State Representative. Chris is well-respected
by legislators and folks all across party lines, and is a trusted, hard-working, ready-to-serve advocate well-versed in constituent service and the bedrock
principles of the Democratic Party. In my opinion, he will be an immediately
effective legislator for District 41.

Congratulations, Representative Chris Heagarty!

State Representative Melanie Wade Goodwin Announces That She Will Not Seek a Fourth Term in the NC General Assembly

A STATEMENT TO THE PEOPLE OF THE 66TH HOUSE DISTRICT
FROM STATE REPRESENTATIVE MELANIE WADE GOODWIN (issued Sept. 8, 2009)

I have been privileged to have the trust of the people of the 66th House District and serve as their voice in Raleigh since I was first elected in 2004. As everyone knows, my family strongly believes in public service and the obligation each of us has to give back to our communities using our individual gifts and talents.

During my three terms, I have worked tirelessly for improvements to public education, a better court system, targeted economic growth in the District and rural North Carolina, enhanced public safety, and improvements to our elections process.

These goals will continue to have my firm attention and action as I complete my third term, which concludes in December 2010.

However, after much consideration, I have decided not to seek re-election to a fourth term next year.

Making my decision now allows others in Richmond and Montgomery counties who are interested in public service the time to weigh the very sizable commitment of personal and professional time, as well as resources, that it takes to be a member of the North Carolina General Assembly.

My decision also allows me to spend more time with my young children, and to focus on other personal goals and priorities in my life.

It has been a pleasure to serve the many kind, caring, and supportive people of my home. Although we are in the midst of challenging times, I believe that Richmond and Montgomery counties have a very bright future ahead.

Thank you for giving me this opportunity to give back and to make a difference.

# # #

Many colleagues, constituents and friends were quite surprised and saddened, yet understanding, of Representative Goodwin's decision.

As reported in the Montgomery Herald:

Economic Development Director Judy Stevens has worked with Goodwin since she was elected and said, “I was sad to hear that Representative Melanie Wade Goodwin has decided not to seek another term in the NC House of Representatives. Melanie has represented the 66th District with distinction. She has always been available, responsive and sensitive to our many needs and requests. We knew we could always count on Melanie to support our efforts to make our county more competitive for economic development. I appreciate her keen interest in service to her constituents and the entire state. She will be missed.”

County Manager Lance Metzler echoed the same sentiments saying, “I can honestly say that I have been in government for over 16 years and I have worked with many senators, representatives, US Congressman and Senators but I have never had any as responsive, kind, caring and reachable as Melanie Wade Goodwin has been. She embraced the community and the community embraced her back. She will be sorely missed representing Montgomery County. Whomever runs for this position will have some mighty big shoes to fill!”

Goodwin has also won the respect of those that have been around the halls of the General Assembly for many years. House Speaker Joe Hackney spoke kindly of Goodwin saying, “She is the ideal citizen-legislator: well connected with her constituents, eager to serve them and trained in the law. And a young mom to boot. I am distressed that she has chosen not to run again.”

Representative Pryor Gibson has worked with Goodwin since she took office. Gibson, a former representative of Montgomery County said, “Rep. Goodwin is a class act and will be hard to follow. She is a tremendous asset to the people of Montgomery and Richmond counties and all of North Carolina. She has that rare talent to listen, sort out complicated issues, and then deliver real solutions. I will miss her and intend to continue seeking her counsel.”

The Richmond County Daily Journal also ran a prominent front-page story.

8th District's Rep. Melanie Goodwin, Sen. Purcell Make Significant Gain in Effectiveness

Entitled "Local Leader Climbs in Poll", the April 10th issue of the Richmond County Daily Journal says, in part:

Rep. Melanie Wade Goodwin (D-Hamlet) made the biggest leap in effectiveness out of all of the members of the North Carolina House of Representatives, based on a poll released this month.

The North Carolina Center for Public Policy Research Inc. showed Goodwin vaulted from 73rd in 2005 to 31st this year — a difference of 42 places. The only lawmaker to come close was Rep. Grier Martin (D-Wake) who went up 38 spots. He was ranked 68th in 2005 and is now ranked 30th.

Goodwin is serving her second term in the house. She is a member of the appropriations committee and chairman of the election law and vice chairman of the Judiciary I committee. She also serves as a member of six other committees.

“It’s an honor,” Goodwin said of the ranking. “I can say with every passing day I learn something new as a lawmaker. I’m learning how to get things done for my constituents and for general citizens. A lot of what I’ve learned is that getting legislation passed is all about the personal relationships you have with your colleagues. I’ve worked very hard to establish relationships not just in my party, but with members across the aisle so we can pass good laws for our citizens.”

It’s been a challenge for me, but I feel like it was the right time and I’ve enjoyed it tremendously,” Goodwin said.

To read the full article, then go to the following link:

http://www.yourdailyjournal.com/articles/2008/04/10/news/news03.txt

It mentions Sen. Purcell and Rep. Goodwin, as well as Rep. Grier Martin, Speaker Joe Hackney, and others.

We are very proud of two of the Eighth District's best state legislators!

And, of course, I am most proud of Melanie. She has not only served 2 terms in the legislature (and is ready for her 3rd), but has done it with amazing grace, competence, hard work, and style. Plus, our 2nd child is expected to be born in 3 weeks ... and she is s-o-o-o much a better legislator (and better looking) than her predecessor. :) Congratulations!

State Representative Melanie Wade Goodwin Files for Re-election to N.C. General Assembly

February 11, 2008

State Representative Melanie Wade Goodwin Seeking 3rd Term for Richmond, Montgomery Counties

(Rockingham) – State Representative Melanie Wade Goodwin filed on opening day of the 2008 election season for re-election to the North Carolina House of Representatives.

Presently in her second term, Goodwin has been a rising star within the Democratic Party’s legislative majority.

In the North Carolina General Assembly she is chairwoman of the House Election Laws and Campaign Finance Reform Committee and vice-chair of the Judiciary I Committee. Both committees are known for their consideration and passage of substantive legislative proposals. The local lawmaker also serves on the following additional committees: Appropriations; Appropriations Subcommittee on Justice and Public Safety; Education; Education Subcommittee on Community Colleges; and Juvenile Justice. Furthermore, House Speaker Joe Hackney has appointed her to several interim study committees. These duties require her to work part of every week in Raleigh, whether the legislature is in session or not.

“Our area of this State faces a number of significant challenges: jobs, schools, roads, water, sewer, access to affordable healthcare, and many others. I filed for re-election to a third term because this district deserves a State Representative committed to working full-time for its citizens to address these challenges. During my first two terms, this district has received significant appropriations, grants, and constituent services,” said Rep. Goodwin. “If re-elected, Richmond and Montgomery Counties will continue to benefit from my experience and legislative seniority.”
Speaker of the House Joe Hackney of Chatham County praised Rep. Goodwin’s decision to run for a third term.

“She is an excellent legislator, a legislator who brings remarkable experience to the General Assembly. Melanie is an attorney, mom, wife and career woman,” said Speaker Hackney. “We do not have a lot of youth in the legislature, but Rep. Goodwin has become a key spokesperson for young families and small businesspersons in rural North Carolina. … The House of Representatives needs members such as Goodwin who are younger and who know how to manage careers and family. ... She does it with style and gets her work done,” Hackney said.

Melanie Wade Goodwin earned her B.A. in English at UNC-Chapel Hill in 1992 and her Juris Doctor from Campbell University School of Law in 2000. She has been very active in the community as President of the Rockingham Junior Woman’s Club, a member of the Richmond County Juvenile Crime Prevention Council, President of the Richmond County Democratic Women, and the Girl Scouts North Carolina Coastal Pines Council. Goodwin is also a business owner, mother, attorney, and active member of the First United Methodist Church in Rockingham.

Goodwin is married to Wayne Goodwin, her predecessor in the legislature and presently the Assistant Commissioner of Insurance for the State of North Carolina. He joined her at the Richmond County Board of Elections for Monday’s filing. They have a five-year-old daughter, Madison, and are expecting their second child in April. They live in Rockingham.

To learn more about her legislative service as it happens, Rep. Goodwin has created “Melanie’s District Diary” at www.representativemelaniewadegoodwin.blogspot.com. District 66 includes Richmond and Montgomery Counties.