The Financial Modernization Act of 1999, also called Gramm-Leach-Bliley, established a comprehensive framework to permit affiliations among banks, securities firms and insurance companies. Gramm-Leach-Bliley once again acknowledged that states should regulate the business of insurance. However, Congress also called for state reforms to allow insurance companies to compete more effectively in the newly integrated financial service marketplace and to respond with innovation and flexibility to evermore demanding consumer needs. States already have taken action to meet the specific requirements of Gramm-Leach-Bliley.
Forty-six states have enacted a model law to establish a system of reciprocity to license out-of-state insurance agents and brokers. This already exceeds the 29 states required by federal law to prevent establishment of the National Association of Registered Agents and Brokers—a quasigovernmental entity that would preempt state laws. In response to another provision that requires states to set minimum standards to keep insurance information private, the NAIC drafted model privacy regulations, and 49 states and the District of Columbia now meet or exceed the federal privacy requirement.
