California Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner announced that he will take new actions to reduce the frequency of fraudulent claims made in his state.

The immediate changes Poizner intends to make include:

Creating a "fusion" center for insurance fraud investigations so law enforcement can share information more efficiently and quickly in order to identify emerging trends and crime patterns.

Better training for the special investigation units on the recognition, documentation, and reporting of suspected insurance fraud claims.

Formally recognizing insurance companies that go beyond compliance for their greater commitment to fighting fraud.

Increasing the outreach efforts of the California Department of Insurance (CDI) about the consequences of fraud, how the public can recognize it, and how to report it.

Adopting more aggressive recruiting and retention practices, including pay upgrades, so that CDI can recruit and retain qualified investigators.

The changes come as a result of a report issued recently by Poizner's Advisory Task Force on Insurance Fraud, a body created in May 2007. The report, entitled "Reducing Insurance Fraud in California" detailed a number of recommendations to reduce fraudulent claims in California.

While many of the recommendations require regulatory changes, legislative action, or additional funding, Poizner was able to adopt recommendations like the creation of a fusion center immediately.

A copy of the report can be found at www.insurance.ca.gov

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