Happy Wednesday, we are almost to the halfway point through November which means we are quickly speeding into the holiday season. On this week's Big I Buzz we are discussing the possibility of a new COVID-19 vaccine, where Gov. Evers' capacity limits currently stand and how social movements and COVID-19 have affected the EPLI market.

First, before we dive into the news from the past week, we want to call out a great fundraising effort from our Emerging Leaders. Last year, the IIAW Emerging Leaders Committee collected gifts for children receiving care at the Children's Hospital during the holidays. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, the hospital cannot accept in-kind gifts so instead our Emerging Leaders Committee is making donations to the Child Life Department Fund to purchase gifts for patients throughout the year. Please join us in contributing to this great cause - every bit helps! You can donate here. 

Pfizer Vaccine Trial Success Signals Breakthrough in Pandemic Battle

According to Reuters, "Pfizer Inc's experimental COVID-19 vaccine is more than 90 percent effective based on initial trial results, the drugmaker said on Monday, a major victory in the war against a virus has killed over a million people and battered the world's economy." On Monday, November 9th, we saw the Dow soar 1,500 points after a weekend full of news about the potential for a vaccine from Pfizer, the election and a potentially split Senate. The vaccine had an immediate impact on the market. Learn more about the vaccine trials here. 

Wisconsin Supreme Court Sends Virus Capacity Limits Case to Lower Court

According to Insurance Journal, on November 4th, the Wisconsin Supreme Court declined to consider reinstating Democratic Gov. Tony Evers' coronavirus restrictions limiting the size of public gatherings deferring to a lower court to decide. Evers' administration issued an order in early October that limited the size of indoor public gatherings to 25% of a building or room's occupancy or 10 people in places without an occupancy limit. The powerful Tavern League of Wisconsin filed a lawsuit challenging the order, arguing it would drive bars and restaurants out of business. A Sawyer County judge blocked it on Oct. 14, only to have a Barron County judge reinstate it five days later. That sparked an appeal from The Mix-Up bar in Amery and Pro-Life Wisconsin, which argues that the capacity restrictions limit its fundraising gatherings. Learn more about Gov. Evers' restrictions here. 

A Changed Landscape: EPLI in the Age of COVID-19 and Social Movements

Headlines regarding social movements and COVID-19 are dominating the headlines in the business environment. According to the Independent Agent Magazine, "As states introduce legislation and rules protecting potential victims, the employment practices liability market is feeling the impact. "We have a lot of states that are enacting separate laws to govern the employee-employer relationship," says Joe Kelly, senior vice president, employment & ERISA liability national practice leader, Sompo International Insurance. "Add to this the ramifications of COVID-19, and we have the perfect storm for the EPLI market."

How will this impact the future? According to the Independent Agent Magazine, "Carries are not looking to take on a lot of extra employer risk right now; some are not even offering terms...For independent agents, making an early start on acquiring the coverage your client is looking for is key." Read more about how COVID-19 and social movements are impacting the EPLI market here. 

For more news, check out the Action News section of our weekly e-newsletter Big I Buzz. If you aren't subscribed, click  here to add your email to our emailing list. We hope that everyone has a great rest of their week! 

By: WAHVE |  Work At Home Vintage Experts

This article was originally shared in our November 2020 Magazine. Read the full magazine here. 

Zoom fatigue. By now, you’ve not only heard of it – you’ve experienced it. Before the pandemic, those of us who worked from home were accustomed to conducting most of our meetings remotely. Now that remote meetings are the norm, it seems everyone is feeling a little more burnt out than usual. Zoom meetings are causing fatigue because we have to make more emotional effort to appear and stay engaged during hour after hour of online meetings – followed by more Zooming with friends and family after work. In the absence of non-verbal cues, we’re all straining a little harder to pay attention and maintain sustained eye contact all day long, which can be draining. There are a few things all of us can do to combat the fatigue – while still maintaining Zoom etiquette.

To really up your game, adjust your camera to be at eye level so that other people aren’t looking up your nose or at the side of your face. Make sure you have good lighting so that you look less tired from all the extra hours you’re putting in now that the workday never really ends. It’s also important to practice your presentation and how to share your screen before meetings so that you can avoid the embarrassment of everyone looking at the web page you still have up on your desktop called “DIY squirrel picnic benches.” Following these tips can help combat the fatigue to some extent, because you’ll feel less stressed about how to present and how you look.

Beyond this, here are some important ways you can get the most out of Zoom without it getting the most out of you.

Limit video calls only to those that are necessary

Turning on your camera should be optional. Reserve your camera for important communications such as one-on-ones with your manager or leadership calls that require you to follow social cueing. Pick a few meetings each day where you can give your camera – and you – a break. Just remember that turning off the camera doesn’t mean it’s time to multitask. We’ve all been on meetings when someone says “Sorry, I was on mute. Can you repeat that question?” or “I didn’t catch that last part – can you repeat that?” If you’re multitasking, you probably don’t need to spend your time at the meeting – which leads us to the next tip.

Come prepared

Come to the meeting with an expectation about what you will need to be an effective participant. Back when we gathered physically, do you remember the people who wandered into the meeting but didn’t contribute or track to-dos? No paper, no pen, no notebook, no PC.

Don’t be “that person” on a Zoom call, Anticipate the needs of the meeting and be prepared to share data, documents and to give input that helps the team make quick decisions. Too often now on Zoom calls, unprepared people are more than happy to kick the can to the next meeting, or waste 12 minutes sharing their screen while you get a front row to their filing system as they look for the latest spreadsheet or report. If you have your ducks in a row ahead of time, the meeting should be more efficient, and you may be able to end it early.

Track the meeting

Pull out a physical notepad and track the meeting using handwritten notes. The act of tracking forces the brain to stay in lockstep with the meeting, learn something of value, and provide guidance to others because you are practicing the loop of active listening and recording. Think of how wonderful it will be when the meeting ends 8 minutes early because everyone stayed engaged and came to a quick consensus.

Share – but don’t overshare

Spending a few minutes during each meeting connecting with everyone is good Zoom etiquette, but there can be such a thing as too much sharing. The 15 minutes everyone spends “reconnecting” at the beginning of five Zoom meetings per day means that’s happening 20 times a week, and 80 times a month. We’re all craving connection, so consider setting aside regular time that’s specifically reserved for team members to connect and share as needed.

Know your speed keys

If you could get a minute back for every minute someone had to repeat the conversation that they had with themselves while inadvertently on mute, you’d only need 15 minutes to conduct a 30-minute meeting.

Memorize these shortcuts or have a sticky note on the side of your screen that lists the most used quick tasks:

Mute or unmute audio: Alt + A

Start or stop video: Alt + V

Start recording a meeting: Alt + R

Pause or resume screen recording: Alt + P

Pause or resume screen sharing: Alt + S

Being an effective Zoom participant means being an effective communicator. That means coming prepared, being an active listener, and practicing social awareness.  It’s a new world we live in with everyone on cameras and audio, but these few tips can boost your Zoom etiquette and improve how you feel during and after meetings.

By: Misha Lee | IIAW Government Affairs

This article was originally published in our October Wisconsin Independent Agent. Read the full October issue here. 

State Senator Chris Kapenga (R-Delafield), Representatives Mark Born (R-Beaver Dam) and Dan Knodl (R-Germantown) recently unveiled a legislative proposal that would shield Wisconsin businesses, schools, universities, and otherentities from the threat of lawsuits alleging  liability for COVID-19 exposures. Many are still struggling amid the prolonged pandemic and some lawmakers are actively seeking ways to keep the economy moving despite the   Legislature not being in session.

Under the proposal, such liability protections would only apply to those entities that take adequate precautions to keep their premises safe for their employees and customers.  Specifically, the bill protects from the threat of litigation by providing “safe harbor” to owners, lessees, occupants, or other individuals/entities in control of a premises so long as they follow public health orders and take reasonable precautions to protect the public. This liability exemption does not protect bad actors who knowingly violate public health orders or act in a manner that is reckless, willful, or wanton. Passage of this  legislation would put Wisconsin among a growing list of states that have taken the commonsense step of protecting businesses, schools and other entities against predatory lawsuits as a result of COVID-19. As Wisconsinites look to reboot our economy and return to some sort of normalcy in an extremely challenging environment, passage of liability protections are also essential to ensure that people do not fall victim to predatory  lawsuits by some unscrupulous plaintiff’s attorneys who view the pandemic as an opportunity.

In early September, a broad and diverse coalition of 70 groups, including the  Independent Insurance Agents of Wisconsin (IIAW), Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce (WMC), National Federation of Independent  Businesses (NFIB-Wisconsin), Wisconsin Civil Justice Council (WCJC), Wisconsin Association of School Boards (WASB), Wisconsin Builders  Association (WBA), Wisconsin Restaurant

Association (WRA), Midwest Food Products Association (MFPA), many local chambers of

commerce and Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin (ABC), sent a memo urging the Legislature to co-sponsor and take  action on the bill with committee hearings and floor votes in both houses. Unfortunately, the Legislature is not in session as lawmakers are in full campaign mode with the November fall elections approaching quickly. There is a slight possibility that the Republicans would convene a extraordinary session following the election to act on this and other targeted issues related to the pandemic. It appears more likely that any action on liability reforms will happen in early 2021 when the Legislature convenes its 2022-23 session. However, it also is unclear whether or not  Governor Tony Evers would support such a  measure.

See a copy of the proposal LRB-6434 relating to COVID-19 Safe Harbor Liability Reform at 

http://bit.ly/OctGovAffairs.

By: Mallory Cornell | IIAW Vice President and Director of Risk Management

This article was originally featured in our October 2020 Wisconsin Independent Agent. You can read the full October 2020 magazine, which focused on our Exclusive Supporting Company Members here. 

“Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success.” - Henry Ford

By now, we hope that you recognize this quote from Henry Ford as it has become somewhat of a compass for us here at the IIAW. On March 12th, the IIAW launched its COVID-19 website and vowed to bring together our community and offer support, encouragement, and direction in any way that we could. Likewise, we saw our members step up in ways they never have before. Yes, there was a continued focus on customers, but also a new sense of urgency and attention for communities and employees.

As we continue our focus on “staying together”, the IIAW will be launching an Online Community to help facilitate networking, connecting, and supporting one another. And your participation will not go unnoticed. The IIAW wants to support your local communities through donations to area restaurants and non-profit organizations and will regularly be recognizing our conversation starters, thought leaders and reputable users in the Online Community.

We couldn’t have done this without direction and support from our Exclusive Company Members, featured in this month’s publication. The amount of kindness and compassion that has spread across the state and the nation is beyond belief. Here are just a few ways that our Exclusive Company Members have had an impact on their communities in the past six months:

AAA: This company has done a great job of continuing to raise awareness of safe driving and is doing so by giving back to the community. The company joined forces with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation for the MSG2TEENS Driving Safety Video contest. In addition to this campaign, AAA donated over $100,000 in grants to assist public health, safety and law enforcement partners addressing the issue of marijuana impaired driving.

Acuity: Acuity is well-known for its community programs which have not skipped a beat during the last few months. The organization announced a $450,000 donation to the UW-Whitewater Cyber Defense Program to support the university’s commitment to providing education and awareness of cyber attacks. Acuity also recognized independent agents who were going above and beyond in serving their communities through their Acuity Agents Have Heart campaign.

Burns & Wilcox: The giving spirit runs deep throughout Burns & Wilcox and their efforts did not slow down during the pandemic. The company continued to support employees and their communities by dedicating the month of May as a month of giving. In addition, Burns & Wilcox donated $63,840 to benefit hunger-relief organizations including Feeding America and Forgotten Harvest.

IMT Insurance: With the headquarters in Iowa, the team at IMT acted when it came to storm clean up needs after Derecho devastated many areas of the state. The company also supported the American Cancer Society with sponsorships on multiple projects and supported local community projects by partnering with independent insurance agents during their 2020 Community Contest.

Integrity Insurance: The team at Integrity gave back in a big way and the employees were an important part of their efforts. Through support of local community blood drives and filling backpacks for kids going to back to school, the team did not disappoint. In addition to these local events, the Grange Enterprise Gives campaign raised $490,160 to support the communities of their employees.

Liberty Mutual/Safeco: The team at Liberty Mutual took a strong stand in support of systemic racism and we applaud their efforts. The company donated $1,000,000 to the Equal Justice Initiative and matched employee donations to similar organizations. In a time of need, the Safeco team mobilized and headed West to set up Mobile Response Vehicle support centers for individuals impacted by the destructive wildfires in places like California, Oregon and Washington.

Penn National: The United Way does amazing things for local communities and Penn National showed their support this year by donating $50,000 towards COVID relief efforts. In addition to their financial support, the company donated 19,000 face masks to a Pennsylvania hospital to show support for the tireless work of healthcare professionals.

Progressive: Progressive is no stranger to giving back to communities, but this year it is the Big “I” that is extending a huge thank you. The company donated $2,000,000 to establish the Trusted Choice COVID-19 Relief Fund. The fund allowed independent insurance agencies to apply for grants through the national Big “I” and provided financial relief for many agencies during a time of uncertainty.

SECURA: This company has put in the time, effort and hard work to help their community and was recognized for their efforts. SECURA was named one of the Top 10 Generous Workplaces by the United Way of the Fox Cities. Whether they are partnering with local independent agents to provide financial support for community programs or holding their first annual plant sale in the parking lot, this team is giving back!

SFM: The SFM Work Comp Experts are dedicated to their communities and to helping provide future opportunities for young people looking to further their education. This year, the SFM Foundation awarded 14 post-secondary scholarships totaling $250,000. When the future can seem daunting, we thank you for making it a little brighter for these students!

Society Insurance: During these times, many families struggled to put food on the table due to the economic impact of the pandemic. That is where Society stepped up in a big way. The company provided financial support to the Coronavirus Rapid Response Fund at Feeding America of Eastern Wisconsin. They also partnered with local independent agents to donate 375 meals to organizations helping people in need.

West Bend Mutual Insurance: The West Bend Mutual Insurance Charitable Trust provided grants to more than 20 nonprofit organizations to directly support COVID relief efforts in local communities. Two of these organizations were Feeding America and the Red Cross of Southeast Wisconsin who each received $50,000 to help with their relief efforts during these uncertain times.

This is truly remarkable…and only a piece of what you have done to support the people within your communities. During a time where there is so much negative media, the Facebook posts and Twitter feeds filled with stories of people supporting one another remind us how powerful we can be when we work together. Watch for an invitation to join the IIAW Online Community so that we can continue to support our communities, together. Keep up the great work!

On this week's Big I Buzz, we are discussing the new Emergency Order from Gov. Evers, frequently asked questions about the new order limiting mass gatherings to 25% and a reminder about our next Agency Leadership Webinar Series. 

Gov. Tony Evers' Administration Limits Capacity to Bars, Restaurants and Stores to 25% as Virus Surges

On Tuesday, October 6th, Gov. Tony Evers directed Department of Health Services (DHS) Secretary-Designee, Andrea Palm, to issue Emergency Order #3 limiting public gatherings to no more than 25 percent of a room or building's total occupancy. You can learn more about the full order and the list of exemptions here. The directive takes effect at 8 a.m. on October 8th, 2020 and will remain in effect until November 6th. This order applies to any gatherings at locations that are open to the public such as stores, restaurants and other businesses that allow public entry, as well as spaces with ticketed events, according to the Press Release. 

Receive alerts as soon as they come in with the IIAW Text Alerts. Text IIAW to 833-384-0094 to subscribe. 

 Frequently Asked Questions About Emergency Order #3, Limiting Public Gatherings

In addition to their press release limiting mass gatherings to no more than 25% of a room or building's total occupancy, the Office of the Governor also released a FAQ page on the new order. Below are some questions from the FAQ: 

• What does the order prohibit? The order prohibits large groups of people from gathering in indoor spaces that are open to the public (unless an exception applies). The order prohibits groups larger than 25% of the indoor room's occupancy, as determined by the local municipality. A place is open to the public if it is accessible to the general public, such as stores, restaurants, bars or ticketed events. 

• Does the order apply to outdoor spaces or events? No, the order only applies to indoor spaces. The order does not apply to outdoor areas, such as park shelters, outdoor dining areas or playgrounds. 

• Does the order apply to weddings?The order applies to indoor, non-religious weddings or receptions that are open to the public. The order does not apply to private wedding ceremonies or receptions, religious wedding ceremonies or outdoor weddings or receptions. 

• Who is exempted from the order?

- Child care settings, before and after school programs, virtual learning support programs and other child welfare locations listed in the order

- 4K-12 schools

- Colleges and universities

- Health care and public health operations

- Human services operations, such as long-term care and assisted living facilities

- Public infrastructure operations, such as food processing and production facilities, airports, construction projects and public transportation

- State and local government operations and facilities

- Religious events, political events, demonstrations and other events with protected First Amendment speech

- State facilities under the control of the Wisconsin Supreme Court on the Wisconsin Legislature

- Federal facilities under the control of the federal government. 

Read more of the FAQ here. 

Agency Leadership Webinar Series - State and Federal Election Preview 

Join us on October 22nd at 10 a.m. for our second installment of our Agency Leadership Webinar Series. We'll be discussing a preview of the state and federal election. Lee Government Relations is a Wisconsin-based, multi-client lobbying firm specializing in influencing public policy to directly to the needs of the Independent Agents of Wisconsin. Misha is one of Wisconsin's top-respected, connected and effective lobbyist. He has experience dealing with all faces of Wisconsin state government and can open doors to top leaders in the Wisconsin Legislature, Office of the Governor, and state agencies attached to the Executive Branch. Register for the State and Federal Election Preview Webinar here. 

 For more news, check out the Action News section of our weekly e-newsletter  Big I Buzz.   If you aren't subscribed, click   here   to add your email to our emailing list. We hope that everyone has a great rest of their week!