About IGN
What is IGN and what is its purpose? The Insurance Grassroots Network (IGN) is a communications system that connects employees of the insurance industry with their elected state lawmakers. Its purpose is to educate and guide Indiana policymakers on critical insurance issues. IGN was created in 1987 to balance the efforts of anti-insurance groups that stand to severely alter Indiana's favorable insurance climate through harmful legislation.
Why should I join? There are many benefits to IGN membership. Not only do you have the opportunity to become acquainted with those elected to represent you in state government, but you also have access to those people whose decisions will govern how you and your company may operate in the future. The Insurance Institute will also send informative messages on a monthly basis, so you will be kept up to speed on the happenings in Indiana government. Participation is strictly voluntary and no fees are charged. Executives at all Insurance Institute member companies are notified of your participation in the network. Additionally, at the annual meeting in June, the Institute will recognize one company and several individuals who took an active role in the Grassroots Network the previous year. The Institute gives the awards to individuals who respond regularly to Action Alerts and who provide constructive feedback on ways to improve the IGN. Winners of this award will receive a plaque.
How do I join? To join IGN, contact Suzanne Alexander at (317) 464-2452 or sba@insuranceinstitute.org, or simply register here. How will I know when I should contact my legislators? You are encouraged to contact your legislators on an informal basis anytime. However, there are certain instances when the timing of a letter or a telephone call is of critical importance. Through e-mail Action Alerts, IGN members will be asked to contact lawmakers concerning a specific bill/issue prior to an important vote or other significant legislative action. It is critical that you follow the timeline stated in the Action Alert. Indiana's lawmaking process moves extremely quickly, and there will be times when there are only a few hours to get through to your legislators.
Will IGN bombard me with useless e-mails? We hope not. In a given year, you may receive ten or fewer e-mails from us.
Who are my state lawmakers and how do I contact them when I receive an Action Alert? There are 150 members of the Indiana General Assembly, 50 in the Senate and 100 in the House of Representatives. Each Indiana citizen is represented by one state senator and one state representative. You can find your legislators by signing up for the grassroots network. When you receive an Action Alert, you will be provided with a brief explanation of the Insurance Institute's position, but you we encourage you to put our thoughts into your own words. After you write your message, IGN will send an e-mail to your legislator or allow you to print a letter and mail it.