New Pa. Commissioner Takes Over

NU Online News Service, Jan. 19, 1:25 p.m. EST

Michael F. Consedine has taken over as Pennsylvania's insurance commissioner.

He was appointed Jan. 13 by then Gov.-elect Tom Corbett. Gov. Corbett was inaugurated Jan. 18, the same day Mr. Consedine assumed responsibilities at the insurance department.

Mr. Consedine was a partner and vice chair at the law firm Saul Ewing LLP's Insurance Practice Group. He was with the firm for 12 years. Previously, he was counsel for the Pennsylvania Insurance Department.

"Michael Consedine has a reputation as a smart, creative attorney who works collaboratively and professionally," Gov. Corbett said in a statement. "His vast experience and knowledge of the insurance industry and regulations will be a key asset as we move Pennsylvania into the future."

The Saul Ewing website posted a note that read, "Congratulations to our former partner, Michael Consedine, who has been selected by Governor Tom Corbett to serve as insurance commissioner of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. He joined the administration on January 18, 2011, and we wish him much luck in this endeavor."

Mr. Consedine takes over for Robert Pratter, who had been serving as acting commissioner since former Insurance Commissioner Joel Ario left the department at the end of August to direct the unit that will develop and oversee the Health Insurance Exchange system, scheduled to go into effect in 2014 as part of the health insurance reform act.