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Austin Welcomes New Insurance Commissioner Amanda Crawford

Government building representing the Texas Department of Insurance

Austin, January 9, 2026

Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Amanda Crawford as Texas’s new Commissioner of Insurance, aimed at strengthening the $293 billion insurance market. With a wealth of experience and a term extending to 2027, Crawford is set to oversee regulation for thousands of companies and agents, ensuring consumer protection and economic stability.

Austin Welcomes New Insurance Commissioner Amanda Crawford

Governor Abbott’s latest appointment aims to bolster Texas’s $293 billion insurance market

Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Amanda Crawford as the new Commissioner of Insurance for Texas, a role that comes with significant responsibility given the size of the state’s insurance market, which is the second-largest in the nation at $293 billion. Her term will extend until February 1, 2027, allowing her to influence policy in an industry that affects millions of Texans.

Crawford, a resident of Round Rock, brings a wealth of experience to the position, currently serving as the executive director of the Department of Information Resources and Chief Information Officer for the State of Texas. Formerly, she was the deputy attorney general for administration and general counsel at the Office of the Attorney General of Texas. A member of the State Bar of Texas and former president of the National Association of State Chief Information Officers, her extensive background positions her well for this new role.

Key Responsibilities as Insurance Commissioner

As the Commissioner of Insurance, Crawford will oversee the regulation of approximately 3,400 companies and more than 875,000 agents and adjusters. Her leadership will be crucial in ensuring consumer protection, reviewing rates and policy forms, and coordinating responses to insurance-related disasters. The Texas Department of Insurance also monitors the financial solvency of insurers, further emphasizing the critical nature of this role in maintaining a competitive market.

Implications for Texas’s Economy

The appointment of Crawford is significant not just for those involved in the insurance industry but for the broader Texas economy. The robust and well-regulated insurance market fosters an environment conducive to entrepreneurial innovation and resilience. A well-functioning insurance system is essential for businesses and individuals alike, particularly as factors like climate change lead to an increase in the frequency and severity of natural disasters.

Community and Industry Reactions

As Crawford steps into her new role, community leaders and industry stakeholders are expressing optimism. Many view her background in public service and information technology as key advantages that will enable her to streamline operations, improve consumer access, and potentially reduce regulatory burdens—essential moves that can lead to economic growth and job creation.

Continuity and Change in Leadership

Crawford’s appointment follows the retirement of Cassie Brown, who served as Commissioner of Insurance for more than four years. Brown was recognized for her leadership during a challenging period in the industry, navigating the 2020 pandemic and its repercussions on the insurance landscape. Under Crawford’s guidance, stakeholders hope for continued stability with an innovative approach to regulation and consumer protection.

A Broader Perspective on State Governance

This transition in leadership within the Texas Department of Insurance is set against a backdrop of further developments in the state’s public service sector. From significant recognition of local government initiatives to community projects, it’s clear that Texas is making strides across various sectors. Ensuring effective governance without excessive red tape is essential for fostering an environment that promotes business growth and entrepreneurial endeavors.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Texas’s Insurance Landscape

Amanda Crawford’s extensive qualifications and proactive leadership style position her well to navigate the complexities of the Texas insurance market. As individuals and businesses alike rely on strong insurance support, her approach may enhance community trust in the system. Stakeholders are encouraged to remain engaged and support local initiatives that foster a thriving business environment across Texas.

FAQ

Who is the new Commissioner of Insurance for Texas?

Amanda Crawford has been appointed as the new Commissioner of Insurance for Texas.

What responsibilities does the Commissioner of Insurance have?

The Commissioner of Insurance oversees the regulation of Texas’s $293 billion insurance market, which includes supervising approximately 3,400 companies and over 875,000 agents and adjusters.

When does Amanda Crawford’s term expire?

Crawford’s term as Commissioner of Insurance is set to expire on February 1, 2027.

What was the position of Cassie Brown?

Cassie Brown served as the Commissioner of Insurance for over four years before her retirement.

Feature Details
New Commissioner Amanda Crawford
Term Expiry February 1, 2027
Market Size $293 billion
Number of Companies Regulated Approximately 3,400
Number of Agents/Adjusters Over 875,000

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STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER

The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.

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