SAN DIEGO, Nov. 18 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Former Montana Senate Majority Leader Fred Thomas (R-Stevensville) has assumed the office of Vice President/Treasurer of the National Association of Professional Insurance Agents (PIA). Thomas was installed during a meeting of the board of directors of the association held in San Diego, California on October 4, 2009.

Thomas built, operated and owned a very successful independent insurance agency in the Bitterroot Valley and served 16 years in the Montana Legislature. In 2008, Thomas was elected an officer of the National Association of Professional Insurance Agents, placing him in line to become national president of the organization in 2011-2012. He is currently Branch Manager of Western States Insurance of Stevensville.

"It is an honor to serve as an officer of PIA, a national association representing professional, independent insurance agents in all 50 states," said Thomas. "PIA is an activist, grassroots organization that seeks to protect the business and professional interests of its members, the owners of independent insurance agencies throughout the nation. Our commitment to our customers and our communities is exemplified by PIA's motto, "Local Agents Serving Main Street America."

As Majority Leader, Thomas led the successful effort in 2003 to remodel Montana's income tax code by cutting the tax brackets from a maximum of 11% to a maximum of 6.9% and cut capital gains from a maximum of 11% down to maximum of 4.9%. As a result, for the first time in many decades Montana has a competitive income tax code. This has contributed greatly to the creation of the more tax competitive environment Montana now enjoys.

"Understanding people and motivating them is a key to success," Thomas says. "I have used this in the insurance business, in the Montana Legislature and in all my leadership endeavors. This success is based on respecting others and their diverse opinions. It has served me well personally, in business and in public service."

Founded in 1931, PIA is a national trade association that represents member insurance agents and their employees who sell and service all kinds of insurance, but specialize in coverage of automobiles, homes and businesses. PIA members are Local Agents Serving Main Street America(SM). PIA's web address is www.pianet.com.

This press release is online at: http://www.pianet.com/NewsCenter/PressReleases/11-18-09.htm

SOURCE National Association of Professional Insurance Agents

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