CAJPA Cast

California's public liability costs have tripled in just seven years, and the communities feeling it most may not even know why. In this episode, host Amy Conley sits down with Marinda Griese and Beth Lyons to unpack CAJPA's Protecting Public Funds project, a landmark research initiative examining how escalating liability claims are eroding community well-being across the state.

From "nuclear verdicts" to joint and several liability, they break down what's driving the crisis, what the newly released Beacon Economics report reveals, and why a small fraction of claims are consuming nearly 70% of total costs. Most importantly, they share what local agencies can do right now to support meaningful tort reform.

Resources:

Learn More and Join the Coalition

Cost of Claims: What It Means for California's Communities

2026 POLCO Data Findings

In this episode, Amy Conley, General Manager at CIRA and CAJPA Cast host, leads a dynamic group discussion on artificial intelligence with panelists from one of the most highly rated sessions at the CAJPA Fall Conference.

Joining her are:

This is part two of our three-part series on AI. Part one examined AI-use policies, governance structures, and the “rules of the road” for public agencies and JPAs beginning to adopt AI tools. In this episode, the focus shifts from policy to practice and covers prompt engineering, data privacy, and AI accuracy. These are critical areas as more organizations begin testing and integrating AI into daily operations.

Don’t miss this insightful conversation designed to help risk management professionals navigate the evolving AI landscape.

Host Amy Conley sits down with guests Sam Adams, Bill Scribner, and Robert Greenfield to unpack how artificial intelligence is reshaping the pooling industry and why strong AI policy matters now more than ever. Together, they explore the real-world challenges pools face in defining scope, navigating legal and ethical risks, and preparing staff for new tools and responsibilities.

Listeners will hear insights on proactive vs. reactive approaches to AI adoption, governance and oversight best practices, and how organizations can balance innovation with compliance. The episode also offers practical tips for pools just beginning their AI policy journey—plus a look ahead at the emerging issues likely to shape the industry in the next few years.

Whether you’re part of a large pool or just starting to consider AI’s impact, this conversation provides actionable guidance and resources to help you move forward with confidence.

Welcome to the third episode of CAJPA Cast! In this episode, host Amy Conley explores the origins, roles, and future of risk financing JPAs, which provide essential financial stability for public agencies, including cities, counties, school districts, and special districts. Learn how these organizations pool resources to manage risk, control costs, and protect public services from expensive lawsuits and claims. Amy is joined by three experts—Martin Brady, former Executive Director of SIA; Beth Lyons, Executive Director of PERMA; and Jennifer Jobe, Director of Pooled Programs for ACWA JPIA. Together, they discuss the evolution of risk financing JPAs, the impact of legislative issues like AB 218, and the critical role CAJPA plays in advocating for public agencies. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the future of risk pooling and how these organizations ensure public agencies can continue to serve their communities.

In Episode 2 of the CAJPA Cast, we explore the Pillars of CAJPA—advocacy, accreditation, and professional development—and the latest legislative updates affecting public sector risk pools in California. Join Amy Conley as she speaks with Marinda Griese, Robin Flint, and Catherine Smith to learn how CAJPA supports its members and drives change in the public sector.

In Episode 1 of the CAJPA Cast, we’re giving you an exclusive preview of our upcoming CAJPA Fall Conference, themed "Cultivating Change" which is taking place September 10-13, 2024 in beautiful South Lake Tahoe! Join us as we sit down with some fantastic guests who will provide insights into what’s in store.