The OAPSLO bylaws specify the requirements for our 4 types of memberships.
- Specialty Broker
- Retail Agent
- Associate Member
- Honorary Member
From the Bylaws:
Membership shall consist of four (4) types of members.
Section 3.1 Specialty Broker (here-in-after to include Specialty Broker, Wholesale Broker and Excess and Surplus Lines Broker) – To become eligible as voting Specialty Broker member in this organization the individual or corporation or other professional entity must meet the following qualifications:
1. Any person, firm or corporation engaged in an insurance agency business, the organization of which includes at least one individual licensed as a surplus lines agent Pursuant to the Ohio Surplus Lines Law and has a permanent office located within the State of Ohio.
2. Must principally derive their income from insurance coverage’s placed on behalf of other licensed insurance agents.
3. Must represent at least one approved non-admitted insurance company.
4. Must deal principally through retail agents/producers.
5. Each applicant must be reviewed by the Membership Committee and a recommendation must be made to the Board of Trustees for approval or rejection for membership.
Section 3.2 Retail Agent (Limited Voting)
1. A retail agent who is also licensed as a surplus lines agent Pursuant to the Ohio Surplus Lines Law and has a permanent office located within the State of Ohio.
2. Services the insurance needs of insured’s or consumers on a direct basis
3. Membership shall be open to all qualified applicants who are interested in the purposes of the Association.
4. Retail Agent members may attend all general meetings and functions with the exception of the Officers or Trustees Meetings.
5. Retail Agent members may serve and advise the organization at its request.
6. Retail Agent members may only vote upon matters as previously directed by the Board of Trustees.
Section 3.3 Associate Member (Non Voting)
1. Membership shall be open to all qualified applicants who are interested in the purposes of the Association.
2. Associate members may attend all general meetings and functions with the exception of the Officers or Trustees Meetings.
3. Associate members may serve and advise the organization at its request.
Section 3.4 Honorary Member (Non Voting)
Persons connected with the insurance business and who are interested in the Purposes for which this Association was organized, and upon whom honorary membership is bestowed at any Board meeting.
a. Honorary members shall not be required to pay dues or assessments.
b. Honorary membership shall be subject to reconfirmation by the Board of Trustees annually.
c. Under no circumstances shall an Honorary Member be granted the privilege of voting.