Continuing Education Courses

DATE: August 21, 2002 RE: Continuing Education Courses TO: All Continuing Education Providers The Department of Insurance (the Department) has been made aware that some of our authorized providers offering continuing education (CE) courses are not complying with the Section 27-8A, Code of Alabama 1975. We are receiving complaints that the following abuses are occurring in the following areas: Overnight CE; Internet CE; and Advertising and Offering courses not approved. According to Section 27-8A-3, Code of Alabama 1975, all courses, providers, and certifications are subject to audit by the commissioner. In addition, course or course providers may be disqualified at the discretion of the commissioner. Also, those producers failing to complete the required number of hours are in direct violation of compliance requirements. Pursuant to 27-8A-1(a): any natural person licensed in this state as an insurance producer or service representative for the lines of insurance listed in subsection (b), and not exempt under subsection (c), shall satisfactorily complete a minimum of 12 classroom hours per year of courses, programs of instruction, or seminars as may be approved by the commissioner pursuant to this chapter. The Department views the continuing education mandates as necessary and important requirements. Therefore, the Department will not tolerate abuse by providers and/or producers, as such activity will subject those to disciplinary actions, which include, but are not limited to, suspension and/or revocation of license and penalties. Furthermore, the Department expects anyone aware of the above practices to notify us immediately.