Why it Matters

Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee is entering federal lobbying for the first time. The mutual insurer hired Crossroads Strategies LLC to represent them on insurance matters. This marks a strategic shift from purely state-level advocacy to direct federal engagement.

By the Numbers

  • Lobbying Registration Details:
  • First-time federal lobbying client
  • $0 initial filing amount
  • Focus area: Insurance (INS)
  • Single lobbyist: Mathew P. Lapinski
  • No previous federal lobbying expenditures on record

Team Composition:
Crossroads Strategies assigned Lapinski as lead lobbyist. He brings private sector lobbying expertise rather than congressional staff experience.

Broader Context

Tennessee faces mounting disaster costs and federal policy changes. The state experienced devastating April 2025 storms killing 10 people and causing $27.6 million in property damage. Hurricane Helene’s 2024 aftermath continues straining state resources with $500 million in recovery costs.

The Trump administration quadrupled disaster declaration thresholds. This would eliminate 71% of historically approved disasters. Tennessee would lose 37% of federal assistance received from 2008-2024, roughly $468 million.

Congress passed the $66 billion One Big Beautiful Bill Act in July 2025. It includes $6 billion for crop insurance improvements and enhanced premium subsidies.

The Agenda

The lobbying registration lists insurance as the focus area. No specific legislation is identified in the filing. Multiple insurance-related bills are moving through Congress affecting state regulation, agricultural programs, and disaster relief.

Competitive Landscape

Other agricultural insurers are actively lobbying Congress. Multiple insurance industry groups support pending legislation like The FARMER Act and reforms to crop insurance delivery systems. Farm Bureau organizations nationwide advocate for enhanced agricultural insurance programs.

Between The Lines

Congress is debating competing visions for insurance regulation. Senator Katie Britt introduced legislation limiting federal oversight of state-regulated markets. Meanwhile, Senator Josh Hawley conducts aggressive oversight of insurance claim practices.

The Senate Agriculture Committee held hearings emphasizing crop insurance’s central role in farm safety nets. Witnesses warned against creating ad hoc disaster programs competing with private insurance.

H.R.2435 – Save Our Small Farms Act and H.R.827 – Homeowners’ Defense Act could directly affect Tennessee farmers and property owners.

The Bottom Line

Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee’s lobbying entry reflects growing federal influence over insurance markets. Recent disasters, policy changes, and new legislation create both challenges and opportunities requiring direct Washington representation.

Spot something wrong? Report an issue with this article