Nevada Department of Business & Industry Director Dianne Cornwall announced that Betty C. Baker will serve as the Acting Commissioner of the Division of Insurance, effective Monday, September 8.  Baker will oversee the Division while a replacement is sought for Alice Molasky-Arman, who recently retired as Insurance Commissioner after 27 years of service.

Baker has served as Chief Insurance Counsel of the Division of Insurance since October 1999.  In this position, she has supervised the Division’s Legal and Enforcement Sections, handling a substantial case load which included prosecuting violations of the insurance code and defending the Division in administrative hearings.  Baker’s role as Chief Insurance Counsel has involved acting as hearing officer for Division hearings when appointed to do so by Commissioner Molasky-Arman.  She has also acted as Insurance Commissioner when appointed by Commissioner Molasky-Arman during her absences from the State.   Additionally, Baker has served on various internal committees within the Division and has advised Division staff members on legal issues as they have arisen.

“Betty’s hands-on knowledge of the Division’s many functions is a valuable asset,” said Director Cornwall.  “Betty’s extensive experience will help ensure a smooth transition of leadership while maintaining the stability of this important regulatory agency.”

Baker noted that she is looking forward to serving in her new role.  “This appointment is an exciting challenge for me.  I welcome the opportunity to guide such a dynamic agency through this change in management.”

A nationwide search to find a new Insurance Commissioner has been launched.  Baker will serve as Acting Commissioner until a final appointment is made.

For more information about the Division of Insurance, visit their website at http://doi.state.nv.us/.