IIAV Staff Day at the Capitol
During this year’s legislative session, IIAV staff had the opportunity to visit the General Assembly, where they spent the day meeting with representatives and observing the morning session in action.
Robert Bradshaw:
On February 25, a little more than a week after Crossover at the Legislature, the entire IIAV and VFSC staff went down to the General Assembly building for a tour to see what actually happens at the legislature. This was the first time for some of the members of our staff which I regret given that our legislative efforts are such a significant mission of the association. We toured the General Assembly Building, sat in on a committee discussion on legislation, met with some legislators and toured some of the legislators offices – both House and Senate members – and then went to the Capitol for a brief tour. While at the Capital, we sat in the gallery for a portion of the “morning hour” where legislators pontificate on the issues of the day. Following this visit, I asked the staff what they felt about their visit and their comments follow:
Rob Brill:
My visit to the Capitol Building and the General Assembly was great. It was awesome seeing Bob in his element, and it was wonderful to meet some of the politicians that support IIAV and what we do here. Getting to learn firsthand how these laws that affect us all are made really drove home the importance of the work that IIAV does to support the Independent Insurance Industry!
Stevenson Cocke:
I had the opportunity to visit the legislature with my team, and it was honestly a powerful experience. Seeing the day-to-day work firsthand gave me a much deeper appreciation for how policy decisions are made and how directly they can impact our industry.
What stood out most to me was realizing just how much work goes on behind the scenes to protect independent agents. Watching the process in action — sitting in on a legislative meeting, walking the Capitol, and meeting our state senator — made it real. It reinforced how important advocacy is and how intentional our efforts are in making sure agents have a voice.
If I were explaining it to a member, I’d say this: it’s one thing to hear that your association is advocating for you — it’s another thing to see it happening. Being there helped me understand the responsibility we carry on behalf of our members, and it gave me an even stronger sense of pride in the work we do for this industry.
I would absolutely recommend attending a legislative visit or our National Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C. It’s not just educational — it gives you perspective, access, and a tangible connection to the decisions that shape our business.
Stacy Lam:
My experience at the General Assembly was great! Our tour around the building included the Delegate’s and Senator’s offices and committee meeting spaces. Bob explained what his “routine” was and introduced us to Senator Obenshain from Harrisonburg. This peek into his work was eye-opening to say the least. The lobbying he does for independent insurance agents around the state is tireless and seemingly never-ending. The tour also included the Capitol which for me was a great historical experience. I’m the furthest from a political person so the historical parts of the tour were very interesting. The architecture and the old Senate and House Chambers were very cool. I enjoyed the day very much!
Lisa Harmon:
Although the basic principles of the United States are rooted in the Constitution and Declaration of Independence, the laws set forth in Virginia are established by the very people we elect to serve as our senators and representatives. If you have never seen the actual process they go through each year to vote on House and Senate bills it is quite the experience. I recently had the unique opportunity to spend a few hours at the General Assembly and sit while both Senate and House members discussed bills important to their constituents. Sometimes they can be a little long winded, but each has passion for the bills they have put forth and/or support, even if we don’t always agree.
It is a very busy place when in session with schools bringing kids to see the inner workings, the pages that have the honor of working and supporting the Assembly all while learning, as well as ordinary citizens and lobbyist trying to meet with their legislative reps to sway them in their position on a certain bill. I would imagine when it works it’s fun and when it doesn’t it can be frustrating. While there, be sure to have a Starbucks and lunch. It may be the highlight of your visit.
While there you must visit the Capital and take a tour to see all the things you probably saw as a young child or adult but forgot. Old Senate and House rooms that are now just reminders of what was, pictures and statues of President Washington and others who had the privilege of serving the people. As a Political Science major in college, I have a tremendous respect for our political process, but I also recognize that the very people we elect must have core values, morals, and beliefs that track with the Constitution they are there to uphold. `
Today was a reminder to me that when I have something I don’t like about how our establishment operates, I can challenge it and have every right to do so and it starts with putting our representatives on notice.
Sara Armor:
Visiting the Virginia General Assembly and the Virginia State Capitol in Richmond was more than just a tour of historic buildings — it was an opportunity to connect with the foundation of public service, governance, and civic responsibility in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
It gave me a deeper understanding of how laws/bills are created, debated, and enacted. Seeing where committees meet and where legislation is discussed reinforces how much thought, negotiation, and collaboration go into every decision that affects public programs and services.
The lobbying the IIAV gives our association allows us to have a seat at the table during legislative drafting, early warning on proposed bill changes, and the ability to shape regulations before they are finalized. I truly appreciate everything Robert Bradshaw does each year to advocate for our association members.
Melanie DeCola:
I think visiting the General Assembly is something everyone should do at some point. It was interesting to learn the process of how things are done from how a bill is presented to how it gets passed (or not). While I can’t say I still understand how it all completely works, it’s comforting in a way knowing that you have lobbyists, delegates, senators…etc…. either in your corner, or at least willing to listen to your concerns. I was surprised to learn that you could go and visit your delegates/senators to discuss issues/concerns. I never knew that before!
IIAV maintains a strong and proactive governmental affairs program, working closely with both the legislative and executive branches at the state level. Through these efforts, IIAV helps ensure that public policy and regulatory decisions align with the interests of independent agents, the insurance industry, and the insurance-buying public.