N.Y.: New bill would provide association members additional CE credits

The 2025-26 legislative session is continuing to prove to be a season of modernization of New York state’s continuing-education requirements for insurance professionals. While the PIANY-backed A.6652-A just cleared the state Assembly—pushing forward a proposed bill that would allow insurance producers to carry up to seven excess CE credits into their next licensing period—another proposed bill would afford additional CE earning opportunities to insurance professionals. S.5237 would provide insurance producers with an active membership in a statewide professional insurance producer association three credit hours of CE.

This bill is significant because it would reward insurance producers for engaging with statewide professional associations, like PIANY, that promote ethical practices, professional development, and networking opportunities. By incentivizing membership in these organizations through CE credits, the bill would enhance the overall competency and professionalism of insurance producers in New York state. It also would help to foster mentorship opportunities, particularly for younger producers, by connecting them with seasoned professionals.

Once again, PIANY is strongly in favor of this bill, as it would support the growth of the industry, strengthen ethical standards, and ensure that insurance producers remain informed and up to date with the latest industry best practices.

Specifics of the bill

If passed, S.5237 would allow insurance producers to obtain three CE credit hours for active membership in a statewide professional insurance producer association during each biennial period. To qualify for these credits, the bill sets specific requirements for both the association and its members.

The association must have existed for at least 10 years, and its membership must consist of individuals who hold an insurance producer’s license issued by the New York State Department of Financial Services’ superintendent of insurance. Additionally, the association must be dedicated to promoting integrity, professionalism, and business interests through education, advocacy, social interaction, and the development of ethical and sound business practices.

This would be done by meeting certain educational and publication criteria, such as:

• Creating and distributing a professional publication or journal that is issued not less than four times a year;
• The issuance of not less than six guidance or fact-based policy statements or instructional memoranda on topics pertaining to professional practice, customer service, ethics or a substantive issue; or
• Distribution of not less than 12 such statements or memoranda produced by another organization.  

An active member would be defined as one who is in good standing with dues paid, has read the association’s code of ethics, and has attended at least one educational program or seminar each year. Additionally, the association must submit an annual report to the DFS superintendent of insurance detailing its members in good standing, its code of ethics, and other relevant information.

If passed, the bill will take effect immediately.

What’s next?

Currently, S.5237 is awaiting consideration by the Senate Insurance Committee.

PIANY will continue to advocate for swift passage in both chambers and encourages all members to stay engaged.

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.