Washington State Insurance Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of the insurance commissioner?

1. To create new insurance policies

2. To sell insurance products to consumers

3. To oversee the insurance industry's regulation

4. To evaluate insurance claims

The correct answer is: To oversee the insurance industry's regulation

The primary purpose of the insurance commissioner is to oversee the regulation of the insurance industry. This role involves ensuring that insurance companies comply with state laws, protecting consumers, and maintaining a stable insurance market. The commissioner has the authority to issue regulations, license insurers, and monitor their financial health to ensure they can meet policyholder obligations. This oversight is crucial for maintaining public trust in the insurance system and for promoting fair practices within the industry. The other options do not accurately reflect the responsibilities associated with the insurance commissioner's role. Creating new insurance policies is typically the domain of insurance companies themselves, while selling insurance products involves agents or brokers. Evaluating insurance claims may be part of adjusting or claims management functions handled by the insurers, but it is not a primary duty of the insurance commissioner.