NU Online News Service, Feb. 19, 2:20 p.m. EST

U.S Rep. Joe Crowley, D-N.Y, will be a speaker at the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America's National Legislative Conference and Convention in Washington, D.C., the organization said.

Rep. Crowley, who serves as deputy whip for the House Democratic majority, will be one of the featured speakers at the legislative conference breakfast March 4, prior to IIABA member visits to their elected representatives on Capitol Hill.

Sen. Richard Burr, R-N.C. will also address the membership at the breakfast that morning.

"The Big 'I' is looking forward to hearing from Rep. Crowley, one of the top Democratic Party leaders, whose commitment to the small business community has been instrumental in protecting our members and insurance consumers," said Robert A. Rusbuldt, IIABA president and chief executive officer. "We look forward to hearing his perspective on small business issues, which is particularly important due to his numerous leadership roles in Congress."

Besides serving as Democratic Chief Deputy Whip in the House, Rep. Crowley serves as the chairman of the New Democrat Coalition, a group of moderate Democrats who are seen as business-friendly on a number of issues, the IIABA said.

He is also a member of the House Ways & Means Committee, vice chairman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, and serves as chairman of its business council.

Mr. Crowley is in his sixth term serving New York's seventh congressional district, which includes parts of the Bronx and Queens.

The IIABA's meeting is scheduled for March 3-5 at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington, D.C.

Additional information is available online at www.independentagent.com through the "Events and Conferences" link.