Union funds accuse Markel, CNA, Berkshire Hathaway of surety bond failures

The case takes on added significance for the insurance industry because of the involvement of multiple surety and insurance providers. According to the complaint, Markel, Berkshire Hathaway, Western Surety, CNA, and Allianz Trade issued surety bonds to guarantee Commodore’s obligations on major public works projects, including the Culver Line and RFK Bridge projects. When Commodore allegedly defaulted, the Trustees demanded payment from the sureties. The complaint states that the sureties are liable for the proceeds of the bonds, including $2,132,741.19 for the Culver Line Project and $293,557.14 for the RFK Bridge Project, covering the period January 2025 through July 2025.