The RLJ Companies has launched RLJ Insurance Services, created in conjunction with AV International (AVI), a minority business insurance firm providing services for state government, municipal and corporate clients.

RLJ Insurance Services expands AVI’s reach and capabilities in the stop-loss market, which provides protection against catastrophic or unpredictable costs. Under a stop loss policy, the insurance company reimburses the employer for legitimate health claims that exceed certain limits.

RLJ Insurance Services is minority controlled and diversity qualified and will market its core product, stop-loss insurance, for self-insured employer health plans directly and through agents and brokers with specific attention on state governments, municipalities and other corporate clients, said The RLJ Companies.

Robert Johnson, founder and chairman of The RLJ Companies, will serve as chairman of board for RLJ Insurance Services.

AVI partner Russell Naylor said, RLJ Insurance Services will allow more stop-loss options and product flexibility to meet customer needs and the expectations in today’s marketplace.