With insurance affordability and regulation poised to dominate the next legislative session, IIAT is strengthening its advocacy efforts to ensure independent agents have a strong, early voice at the Capitol.
At the Joe Vincent Management Seminar on Monday, January 26, IIAT introduced Marquez Public Affairs (MPA) as its new external government affairs firm. Marquez will join IIAT’s Government Affairs team, working alongside IIAT Technical Affairs Director Carie Ann Roach and Executive Assistant Connie Hernandez, who brings more than 35 years of experience as a secretary to four different Texas senators, adding even greater depth to IIAT’s legislative expertise.
The move follows months of member feedback and planning aimed at expanding IIAT’s legislative bench and preparing well ahead of the upcoming session. “As you all know clearly, advocacy is a major part of our cornerstone and our mission,” IIAT President & Executive Director Marit Peters told attendees. “We can’t wait until the end of the year to get ready for the 90th legislative session. We’ve got to start work now.”
Austin-based Marquez Public Affairs brings deep experience in Texas government, regulatory policy, and legislative strategy. The firm is led by Brandy Marty Marquez, former Chief of Staff to Governor Rick Perry and former Commissioner of the Public Utility Commission of Texas, and Enrique Marquez, former Chief of Staff to the Speaker of the Texas House. During the seminar, the MPA team emphasized their backgrounds in public service and their commitment to advocacy that reflects real-world impacts on communities and consumers. “What we do now is an extension of public service,” Brandy Marquez said. “You all stand with your neighbors and your communities in times of crisis – protecting you is one of the best ways we can protect Texans.”
“What we do now is an extension of public service — protecting you is one of the best ways we can protect Texans.“Brandy Marquez, Principal, Marquez Public Affairs
The addition of Marquez Public Affairs complements IIAT’s existing advocacy team and signals a renewed focus on early engagement, relationship-building, and grassroots involvement. Members are encouraged to share their relationships with legislators and take an active role in advocacy efforts, supported by IIAT staff and MPA. With Marquez Public Affairs now on board, IIAT is already engaging policymakers and regulators, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to protecting agent independence and serving Texas consumers.
“Partnering with Marquez Public Affairs is a strategic move that strengthens our voice at the Capitol. Their proven expertise and deep understanding of Texas policy will help ensure independent insurance agents are heard and represented on the issues that matter most to them and their clients.“Marit Peters, IIAT President and Executive Director
Do you know a Texas legislator or staffer? Complete the Legislative Connections form to help IIAT and Marquez Public Affairs strengthen advocacy, protect independent agents, and improve insurance affordability.
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