A Conversation with State Representative Brian Lampton

As Government Affairs Manager for OIA, I have the privilege of connecting with Representative Brian Lampton on a regular basis. Representative Lampton has the distinct privilege and responsibility of serving as the Chairman for the Ohio House Insurance Committee. Through his work as committee chair, Rep. Lampton plays a major role in determining P&C policy in our state.  

Rep. Lampton doesn’t just serve Ohio in the Statehouse; Lampton is an OIA member who owns an Independent Agency in Beavercreek and has been an agent for over 30 years. I enjoyed the opportunity to sit down with Representative Lampton and hear his story. Lampton’s journey shows how an agent can transition into meaningful public service and demonstrates why other independent agents are uniquely positioned to do the same.  

From Business Frustration to Civic Curiosity

Like many agency owners, Lampton’s introduction to public policy was personal. Starting his insurance business from scratch, he quickly became familiar with the realities of payroll taxes, income taxes, and regulatory burdens. 

“You go through those very lean first few years, and it can be very disappointing to send all that money away. I got very interested in where that money was going.” 

That curiosity became the foundation for Brian’s civic engagement. 

Rather than staying on the sidelines, Lampton began connecting with local leaders through organizations like the Chamber of Commerce and Rotary. What started as networking for business quickly turned into something more. 

Getting Involved: Campaigns Before Candidacy

Before running himself, Lampton spent time supporting other candidates by attending fundraisers, meeting elected officials, and learning how campaigns work. Through this time, Lampton built political prowess and made meaningful connections with mentors, allies, and future supporters.  

Eventually, an opportunity presented itself: an open statehouse seat with multiple candidates. Lampton ran a strong race but lost narrowly. 

“I came in second my first time running. I lost by about 800 votes.” 

Rather than ending his journey, that loss became a learning experience, offering insight into the importance of campaign strategy, organization, and experience. 

Persistence Pays Off

Lampton ultimately decided to wait for the right opportunity. He supported another candidate in 2012, while continuing to build his relationships and strengthen his position. Later, when the seat opened again in 2020, Lampton stepped forward and won his primary and general election resoundingly. 

His first campaign victory came during the uncertainty of the 2020 election cycle, proving that persistence and preparation matter more than perfect timing. 

Making an Impact: Distracted Driving Reform

When asked about his proudest accomplishment in the Ohio Legislature, Rep. Lampton’s answer was immediate: distracted driving legislation. What seemed like a straightforward issue turned into a two-year legislative effort filled with challenges. 

“I thought it was a no-brainer… it wasn’t. It took every bit of those two years.” 

Through collaboration and persistence, Rep. Lampton’s distracted driving legislation, House Bill 283, was amended into Senate Bill 288. This legislation was ultimately passed and was signed into law on January 3, 2023.   

Rep. Lampton’s hard work helped put a law in place that has, and will continue to, save lives in Ohio. 

Bringing Real-World Experience to Government

Today, Rep. Lampton’s background as an independent agent and agency owner continues to shape his work in the legislature. 

“Business owners understand payroll, taxes, and employee issues. They understand what’s right and what works in the real world.” 

Insurance agents bring added value because of the breadth of their experience. Agents are impactful because they understand financial risk and regulation, work with people from all socioeconomic levels, and hear directly from clients about real-life challenges.  

“That gives them a tremendous advantage when dealing with what the legislature works on.” 

The Advantage of Being an Insurance Agent

One of the biggest takeaways from Rep. Lampton’s story is how naturally the insurance profession prepares someone for public service. 

“This is a person-to-person business and that’s how you meet people and make connections.” 

As an independent agent, you are embedded in your community. You build trust with a broad range of clients, and you naturally develop relationships with local leaders. Those connections became invaluable for Rep. Lampton when he later considered running for office. 

“It’s good to know all the local folks—but even better if they like you.” 

A Front-Row Seat to Real Life

What truly sets insurance agents apart, however, is the unique perspective they gain from their clients. Insurance agents don’t serve just one type of customer; they serve everyone. Agents interact with families living paycheck to paycheck, small business owners navigating growth and regulation, and people from all political backgrounds.  

“You talk to customers; you understand those that are living paycheck to paycheck… When they tell you their life stories—divorces, hardships, everything—you see it firsthand.” 

This exposure gives agents a deep, practical understanding of real-world issues that policymakers often only encounter in theory.  

“Insurance agents are exposed to such a wide variety of life that other folks just aren’t.”

A Call to Action for Independent Agents

Representative Lampton’s story reinforces a clear message: independent agents are uniquely qualified to serve in public office. The same skills that make someone successful in the industry—relationship-building, listening, problem-solving, and community involvement—are exactly what make someone an effective public leader. 

For those who are considering public service, your path can start small. Consider joining local organizations, attending community meetings, and building relationships with candidates and elected officials. From there, opportunities can grow, just as they did for Chairman Lampton. 

Rep. Brian Lampton represents the good in public service. He is a man of integrity who knows insurance and small business. On top of serving as House Insurance Chairman, Lampton still finds time to serve his clients, play the drums in his band, and announce Beavercreek High School sporting events.  

Rep. Lampton’s public service didn’t begin with a title; it began with his engagement. Lampton’s path to public service should serve as a blueprint and an example to other independent agents.  

The independent agent’s perspective isn’t just valuable at the Statehouse; it’s needed. 

About the Author:

George Christy joined the Ohio Insurance Agents (OIA) as the new Government Affairs Manager in January 2025. George brings experience from his previous roles at the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT). At ODOT, he was part of the communications team, and he worked on legislative and regulatory issues with the Legislative Affairs team. George brings experience from his work on state legislative campaigns, his time as a Legislative Aide in the Ohio House of Representatives, and his roles at a state agency. George grew up in Delaware County and is a graduate of The Ohio State University where he studied Political Science and Economics.