Cameron to JFAC: Co-chairs’ titles easier to remember now, both ‘Madam Chair’

State Department of Insurance Director Dean Cameron, former co-chair of JFAC, is making his first budget presentation to the joint committee this morning. “It’s wonderful to have you here, director,” new Senate Finance Chair Shawn Keough, R-Sandpoint, told her predecessor. “I wish I could say the same,” Cameron responded amid some laughter, his voice hoarse from a cold. He told the members of the joint budget committee that he misses being a part of it, and said, “I want you to know that I cherish every moment I had with you in this body.” He added, “One thing I won’t miss is being called ‘Madam Chair.’ I’m sure it’s much easier for agency directors now, as they have just one title that they have to remember.”

Cameron served as co-chair of the joint committee with House Appropriations Chairwoman Maxine  Bell, R-Jerome. Now both of the joint committee’s co-chairs are women.

The state Department of Insurance regulates the insurance industry in Idaho and oversees the state fire marshal’s office; it has 73.5 employees. It receives no state general funds; instead, it’s funded by fines, fees and insurance premium taxes.