STATEMENT ON RESIGNATION OF MILA KOFMAN

AUGUSTA—Senate Democrats released the following statement after learning of Mila Kofman’s resignation from the position of Maine Superintendent of Insurance.

Senator Barry Hobbins, of Saco, and Democratic Leader: “The people of Maine have been fortunate to have a nationally recognized insurance expert leading our Bureau of Insurance. I have the highest regard for the way in which Mila has held the post of Superintendent and will greatly miss her thoughtful opinions.”

Senator Justin Alfond, of Portland and Assistant Democratic Leader: “Mila’s resignation is a great loss for the people of Maine. Mila is exceptionally knowledgeable and professional. It is most concerning to me that many of the changes that have occurred during this administration appear to favor loyalty over talent. Mila is the number one expert for transitioning Maine toward the federal standard of the Affordable Care Act. It’s hard to imagine that we could get anyone who would even come close to having the depth of knowledge that Mila brings. This is certainly a loss.”

Senator Joe Brannigan, of Portland and Democratic Lead on Insurance and Financial Services: “Unfortunately, I am not surprised by this announcement. During the last couple of months, it seems as though Mila’s opinion has been muzzled. In more than 20 years of service in the Legislature, I have never seen such partisan antics. Mila, as an independent officer of the state, upheld her standard of political neutrality to a tee. Mila’s opinion will be greatly missed. I have great respect for Mila and her level of expertise. It will be a great loss to no longer have her opinion available.”

Kofman has served as the top insurance regulator in Maine since March 2008. She was renominated and unanimously reconfirmed for a 5 year term in April 2010.