N.J.: New e-bike law closes insurance gaps: A win for public safety and common sense 

New Jersey has taken a major step forward to regulate the growing use of electric bicycles with the passage and signing of S-4834—a measure strongly supported by PIANJ.   As e-bikes have rapidly evolved from recreational novelties into legitimate transportation...
On the origin of pet insurance

On the origin of pet insurance

I’m fascinated by the process of evolution. As a kid, I was a dinosaur fanatic, and I was perplexed by the thought of a Stegosaurus (my favorite dinosaur) evolving into a bird. Luckily, I have since wrapped my brain around that. I’ve always thought of evolution as a...

Weekly Dispatch: Jan. 15, 2026

Weekly Dispatch: Jan. 15, 2026

AM Best found that property/casualty insurers have managed to improve underwriting and operating results despite strong headwinds. New Jersey’s Insurance Commissioner Justin Zimmerman assigned to NAIC 2026 committee as vice chair. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul addresses p/c sector concerns in State of the State address. Plus, you can read about state-specific industry news, advocacy updates, technical resources, accolades, education opportunities and upcoming events in this issue of the Weekly Dispatch.

PIANY champions CE carryover for insurance producers 

PIANY champions CE carryover for insurance producers 

PIANY knows how much effort insurance producers put into staying informed and compliant with insurance laws and regulations. Continuing education isn’t just a requirement—it’s a commitment to professionalism and client...

N.Y.: State of the State address: Insurance takes center stage 

N.Y.: State of the State address: Insurance takes center stage 

Property/casualty insurance rarely gets the spotlight in a governor’s State of the State address. Most years, it’s a footnote—if mentioned at all.   However, this year is different. Gov. Kathy Hochul put home and auto insurance front and...

You’ve identified your niche, now you need an insurance carrier

You’ve identified your niche, now you need an insurance carrier

Developing a niche for your insurance agency works if you have relationships with enough insurance carriers that write a wide range of insurance policies to offer your clients choices to fit their unique needs. That is why it’s vital to have the right carrier...

Weekly Dispatch: Jan. 8, 2026

Weekly Dispatch: Jan. 8, 2026

PIA wishes you a happy new year! We look forward to our efforts in supporting independent insurance agents and consumers in 2026. Northeast slammed by winter weather—are you prepared for the rest of the season? WC loss cost rate decrease approved in Connecticut. WC rate level decrease approved in New Jersey. New York lawsuit-lending reform passed, officially enacted by Gov. Kathy Hochul. Plus, you can read about state-specific industry news, advocacy updates, technical resources, education opportunities and upcoming events in this issue of the Weekly Dispatch.