As we kick off 2025, PIANY has unveiled its legislative priorities for the year. These initiatives aim to modernize New York state’s insurance regulations, reduce administrative burdens, and promote fairness and transparency.
Let’s take a closer look at the key areas PIANY plans to address during the upcoming legislative session.
Repeal of anti-arson application requirement in NYC
Enacted in the 1970s to combat a spike in arson cases, Section 3403 of the Insurance Law mandates that certain property owners in New York City submit an annual anti-arson application to maintain fire or explosion coverage. While relevant in its time, this requirement has become outdated due to modern fraud-detection systems introduced in 1996.
PIANY is pushing to repeal this unnecessary regulation, which creates significant administrative challenges for property owners and insurers. Missed deadlines can lead to policy cancellations, leaving insureds and third parties at risk.
With cities like Buffalo and Rochester already having eliminated similar mandates, PIANY believes it’s time for New York City to follow suit and adopt fraud-prevention measures that reflect today’s technological advancements.
Carryover of CE credits for insurance producers
Insurance producers in the state are required to complete 15 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain their licenses. However, any extra credits earned cannot be carried over to the next licensing cycle—discouraging producers from pursuing additional education.
PIANY is advocating for a carryover policy that would reward producers for exceeding minimum requirements, reduce administrative burdens and incentivize further professional development. Neighboring states like New Jersey and Connecticut already permit CE credit carryover—as do other professions, such as law.
By aligning New York’s policies with these best practices, this change would enhance industry expertise and benefit consumers served by knowledgeable, highly skilled professionals.
Regulation of lawsuit lending
The growing prevalence of third-party litigation funding—or lawsuit lending—has raised concerns about its lack of regulation. These agreements often include exorbitant interest rates and predatory terms, placing financial burdens on plaintiffs.
PIANY supports efforts to regulate lawsuit lending to ensure fairness and transparency. By establishing reasonable guidelines, lawmakers can protect plaintiffs from exploitation, maintain balanced legal costs and stabilize insurance premiums for everyone.
Insurance framework for e-bikes and scooters
The rising popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters has brought with it increased risks. Between 2017-22, incidents involving these vehicles led to nearly 250,000 emergency room visits and over 200 deaths, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
To address these concerns, PIANY advocates for the creation of a clear insurance framework for e-bikes and e-scooters. This would include adequate liability coverage to protect operators and others involved in accidents, ensuring public safety and financial accountability.
Tackling no-fault insurance fraud
The state’s no-fault insurance system—designed to simplify claims and reduce litigation—has unfortunately become a target for fraud. Staged accidents and inflated medical expenses are driving up premiums, creating financial strain for policyholders.
PIANY is calling for expanded criminal penalties for individuals who orchestrate or recruit others to participate in fraudulent activities. Strengthening these laws would deter fraud, reduce costs, and realign the system with its original purpose—providing efficient and affordable coverage.
Raising minimum auto insurance limits
New York state’s minimum auto insurance limits haven’t kept pace with inflation or rising medical and repair costs. PIANY supports an increase in these limits to ensure adequate financial protection for all parties in an accident.
Modernizing these thresholds would help reduce the financial burden on injured parties and make auto insurance coverage more meaningful, fostering a fairer and more sustainable insurance market.
A vision for a stronger insurance industry
PIANY’s 2025 legislative priorities reflect a commitment to creating a more efficient, equitable and modern insurance environment in New York state. From repealing outdated regulations to addressing emerging risks, these initiatives are designed to benefit insurance professionals, policyholders and the public alike.
Stay tuned as PIANY continues to work with lawmakers to bring these vital changes to fruition, shaping a brighter future for the industry and its consumers.
Get involved
If you want to get involved with PIANY’s legislative and advocacy work, there are many ways to engage with the association:
Participate in PIANY’s District Office Visit Program;
Become a member of Agents Advocacy Coalition; and
Watch your PIA Northeast publications and PIA Northeast’s social-media channels for important New York updates, and share them with your followers.
Bradford J. Lachut, Esq.
Bradford J. Lachut, Esq., joined PIA as government affairs counsel for the Government & Industry Affairs Department in 2012 and then, after a four-month leave, he returned to the association in 2018 as director of government & industry affairs responsible for all legal, government relations and insurance industry liaison programs for the five state associations. Prior to PIA, Brad worked as an attorney for Steven J. Baum PC, in Amherst, and as an associate attorney for the law office of James Morris in Buffalo. He also spent time serving as senior manager of government affairs as the Buffalo Niagara Partnership, a chamber of commerce serving the Buffalo, N.Y., region, his hometown. He received his juris doctorate from Buffalo Law School and his Bachelor of Science degree in Government and Politics from Utica College, Utica, N.Y. Brad is an active Mason and Shriner.
