Ario Confirmed as Insurance Commissioner
The state Senate on July 3, 2008, unanimously confirmed Joel Ario as insurance commissioner.
Ario was nominated for the position in June 2007, but his confirmation was held up by Senate Republications—led by Sen. Don White (R-Indiana), chair of the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee—who wanted two conditions met.
Republicans said they wanted legislation giving the legislature oversight in the proposed merger of Highmark and Independence Blue Cross (IBC). That legislation is on its way to the governor for his signature.
They also wanted Ario to prove he would be independent and not follow the instructions of Gov. Ed Rendell in his independent regulatory functions. White has indicated that Ario is fulfilling this condition.
Last Updated: 7/17/2008