Connecticut Governor M. Jodi Rell has appointed Barbara C. Spear acting Commissioner of Insurance effective today.  Governor Rell’s office confirmed the appointment of Ms. Spear, who currently serves as the Director of Consumer Services and Business Regulation at the Connecticut Insurance Department (the “CID”).  According to media reports, prior to joining the CID, Ms. Spear spent 28 years in the property and casualty industry, including management roles involving claims and client services at local, regional and national levels.  Ms. Spear will replace outgoing Thomas Sullivan, whose resignation becomes effective today.

Governor-elect Dannel Malloy will appoint a permanent Insurance Commissioner after he takes office on January 5, 2011.