Lucy Wang Discusses the California Insurance Commissioner’s Role in Protecting Consumers

Hinshaw senior counsel Lucy Wang was quoted in a CalMatters article discussing the critical role and responsibilities of the California Insurance Commissioner. The position is up for reelection in November.

Responsibility of the California Insurance Commissioner

As a former special counsel for the Insurance Department led by the current Insurance Commissioner, Ricardo Lara, Lucy offers insight into the commissioner's role and responsibilities. “Your role is not to be friend or foe, except (be a friend) to the California consumer,” she said.

Most insurance commissioners are appointed. California is one of 11 states where commissioners are elected. The California Commissioner leads the Insurance Department, which regulates home, auto, life, health, workers’ comp, and other insurance. The Commissioner is responsible for ensuring that policies are available, premiums are affordable, and insurance companies deliver on their promises.

Regulation for Managing Solvency Risks

The article also discusses Commissioner Lara’s proposed regulation that would require insurers to submit their plans for managing solvency risks to the Insurance Department.

Although insurance companies are already required to share financial information with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, Lucy noted, “The idea [behind the proposed rule] is that the

• • CalMatters: “What California’s insurance commissioner does — and how it affects your wallet” (September 9, 2026)