ATCP & Indiana Dept. of Insurance Meet to Elevate Industry Standards
“I think it is great that an association has been formed in a proactive manner… typically these sorts of things are done in response to something negative, but it’s great that you are being proactive. We appreciate the work you do.”
On November 18, 2025, the Association of Tree Care Professionals (ATCP) marked a significant milestone in our mission to professionalize the industry. Our leadership team met with Holly Williams Lambert, the Indiana Insurance Commissioner appointed by Governor Holcomb, to discuss a shared vision: protecting consumers through education and ethical contractor practices. This meeting represents a massive step forward, moving our industry from being “tolerated” to being recognized as a vital partner in consumer protection.
Proactive Self-Regulation: Leading from the Front
Commissioner Lambert, a veteran of the Department for nearly 15 years with deep roots in the Consumer Protection Division, applauded the ATCP’s strategy. While government regulation usually arrives as a punishment for bad behavior, the ATCP is changing the narrative. As Stephan Leblanc noted during the call, “It represents a shift toward policing ourselves before the government has to do it for us.” By establishing our own high ethical standards, we are earning the trust of the highest levels of state government.
The discussion highlighted critical gaps in the current landscape. Mark Goodpasture and Joe Whitledge (owner of ETR) brought the reality of the field to the Commissioner, explaining how misinformation (such as the misrepresentation of the “$500 coverage limit” or blanket denials) harms homeowners. Joe emphasized that professional tree care billing should be treated with the same respect as medical billing, noting that Assignment of Benefits (AOB) is a tool for professionalism, not exploitation.
Collaboration Over Regulation
The most exciting outcome of this meeting is the open door for collaboration. The Department of Insurance acknowledged a “huge gap” in education between policyholders and insurers. Commissioner Lambert and her team requested to connect with the ATCP to gather our educational materials for their public outreach channels. This is a game-changer: The State of Indiana wants to connect with ATCP resources to educate the public. This validates every member who operates ethically and professionally.
Key Wins for ATCP Members
This meeting confirmed that ethical billing and professional standards are the future of this industry. Here is what this partnership means for you:
- Direct Government Access: We have opened a direct line of communication with the DOI to discuss coverage disputes and policyholder education.
- Validation of Authority: The DOI’s interest in our educational materials positions ATCP members as the “Subject Matter Experts” in the eyes of the state.
- Consumer Protection Alignment: By aligning with Commissioner Lambert’s passion for consumer protection, we differentiate ourselves from “bad actors.”
- Combating Payment Fraud: We raised the issue of policyholders retaining insurance checks, and the DOI is open to resources on how to explain the claims process to homeowners.
The Future is Ethical
This meeting proved that when we stand together to promote integrity, the government listens. We are not just cutting trees; we are navigating complex insurance landscapes to protect homeowners. The ATCP is ensuring that when regulations are discussed, we are at the table, not on the menu.
We are building a legacy of trust, and the State of Indiana is ready to walk that path with us.
Arm Yourself with Knowledge
The DOI requested our educational materials because of a shared common goal. Protecting policyholders, and contractors. Make sure you are using the same resources to educate your clients and protect your business.
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