This week, members of Big I NY's Group of 100 traveled to Albany for our “Day on the Hill" to meet with state lawmakers and urge them to support proposals that will help New York consumers. The state budget process is in full swing, and Governor's recently released budget includes many proposals that will impact policyholders.
First and foremost is the dire state of New York's insurance market. Policyholders are struggling with rising rates and shrinking availability, and agents are facing new challenges obtaining coverage for their customers.
G100 members lobbied in support of common-sense changes to the recently enacted supplemental spousal liability law, including applying automatic coverage only to married insureds and exempting commercial auto policies. We also lobbied in support of a $400+ million investment in climate resiliency efforts, including grants for improvements to properties and funding for a voluntary buyout program for flood prone properties. We urged lawmakers to support a modernization of the state's insurance verification system to help prevent drivers from being unfairly penalized for errors in the reporting of their insurance status. We lobbied for the extension of the points reduction program which is a valuable tool to help drivers save money on their car insurance.
We strongly opposed a proposal to expand the states unfair, abusive, and deceptive acts and practices law. While well-intentioned, this expansion creates major incentives for litigation, including mandatory attorney's fees and minimum damages of $1,000 per violation. While we agree it is crucial to protect consumers from unfair business practices, this bill is very broadly and subjectively written and is certain to invite a wave of abusive lawsuits which will increase costs to businesses, and further strain the states precarious insurance market.
After our meetings at the Capitol, we hosted a meet and greet reception with our members and members of the legislature and their staff. Agents had the opportunity to meet with their lawmakers, build new relationships, and discuss the importance and value of the independent insurance model.
G100 members had the opportunity to speak up and make a difference for their customers and the industry, while learning and having fun. Thank you to all who joined us and helped make the day a success!
HEAR WHAT THE AGENTS HAVE TO SAY