June 23rd, 2024 by WCBC Radio

Governor Wes Moore today announced the appointment of the director for the State Department of Assessments and Taxation and the interim commissioner of the Maryland Insurance Administration. "Daniel and Joy have dedicated their careers to public service and public good. Our state is stronger because of their leadership," said Gov. Moore. "I thank them both for raising their hands to serve. In partnership, we will continue to deliver vital services and supports that Marylanders depend on every day."

Governor Moore appointed Daniel K. Phillips to serve as State Department of Assessments and Taxation Director. A 35-year veteran of the department, Phillips has served as interim director since April. Phillips holds a degree in business administration from Salisbury University, is member of the International Association of Assessing Officers and is also a member and Past President of the Maryland Association of Assessing Officers. “I am honored to continue leading SDAT into the future and thank Governor Moore for this appointment,” said State Department of Assessments and Taxation Daniel K. Phillips. “Since I stepped into the interim director position two months ago, I have been focused on building partnerships across government, supporting our staff, and providing efficient service for SDAT customers statewide. I am excited to continue this work.”

Governor Moore also appointed Joy Y. Hatchette as Maryland Insurance Administration Interim Commissioner. The current commissioner, Kathleen Birrane, previously announced plans to retire at the end of June. A search is underway for a long-term successor. 

Hatchette currently serves as associate commissioner for the Consumer Education and Advocacy Unit at the Maryland Insurance Administration, where she oversees outreach to Maryland consumers. She also previously served as associate commissioner for Consumer Complaints and as an assistant attorney general. Prior to joining the Maryland Insurance Administration, she was an associate in the law offices of Gordon, Feinblatt, Rothman, Hoffberger and Hollander and served as a judicial law clerk for the United States Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals.

Hatchette is a graduate of the University of Virginia Law School and is a member of the bar associations in Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. “I appreciate Governor Moore’s confidence in me to lead the MIA during this transition,” said incoming Maryland Insurance Administration Interim Commissioner Joy Hatchette. “I look forward to working closely with Commissioner Birrane as well as the future Commissioner to ensure that the critical work of the MIA continues without interruption.”