While the New York state Senate went into recess last week, the state Assembly extended its legislative session for a few more days—an extension that has paid dividends for PIANY and its members. On Monday, the Assembly passed S.5331-A, a top legislative priority for PIANY that promises to modernize how auto insurance is verified in the state. With this latest action, the bill now heads to Gov. Kathy Hochul’s desk for consideration.
A legislative victory for insurance modernization
Sponsored by Sen. Jamaal Bailey, D-36, and Assemblymember David Weprin, D-24 (as A.4404-A), the bill would establish a real-time, web-based auto insurance verification system administered by the state Department of Motor Vehicles. It’s a significant departure from the current system, which relies on delayed batch data uploads from insurers. These outdated methods often lead to serious consequences for consumers—mistakenly identifying insured drivers as uninsured, triggering fines, suspensions or even vehicle impoundments.
The passage of S.5331-A represents a strong commitment to using modern technology to close these gaps, improve administrative efficiency and prevent needless penalties for New York drivers. Learn more about the bill here.
Next steps: Governor’s desk and implementation
The passage of S.5331-A in both chambers marks an important step toward a more accurate, efficient and consumer-friendly insurance verification system in New York state.
As the bill moves to Gov. Hochul’s desk, PIANY remains committed to working with state leaders to ensure the measure becomes law and is implemented effectively.
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.
