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 service.
That’s why PIANY offers members high-quality education, and it supports legislation that would make the CE process smarter and fairer for producers across New York state.
What’s the issue?
Currently, producers must complete at least 15 CE credits every two years to maintain their licenses. On top of that, there are specific subject requirements—ethics, Insurance Law, flood insurance and diversity, equity and inclusion. For many insurance professionals, this means juggling multiple courses and deadlines—even when they’ve already gone above and beyond what is expected of them.
The solution: CE carryover
PIANY was instrumental in drafting legislation (S.6122-A/A.6652-B) that would allow producers to carry over up to five excess CE credits into the next licensing cycle. This simple change would reward proactive learning and reduce unnecessary stress.
Instead of scrambling to meet requirements at the last minute, producers who invest early in their education can bank those extra credits for the future.
Why does this matter?
Encourages lifelong learning. The best professionals don’t just meet the minimum—they exceed it. Carryover credits promote continuous growth rather than a compliance-only mindset.
Aligns with other professions. Attorneys, architects and engineers in New York state already enjoy this flexibility. It’s time insurance producers had the same opportunity.
Reduces redundancy. Many producers hold advanced designations (e.g., CPCU or CLU), which require rigorous study. This bill would ensure those efforts count, without forcing unnecessary repetition.
A win-win for everyone
This reform doesn’t weaken CE standards—it strengthens them by making the system more efficient and fairer. Producers would benefit from reduced administrative burdens, and consumers would benefit from an industry that prioritizes expertise and professionalism.
PIANY is committed to advocating for policies that support insurance producers in every aspect of their work. We believe this legislation is a balanced, practical solution that reflects the realities of today’s insurance marketplace.
What’s next?
As the second half of the 2025-26 legislative session begins, S.6122-A and A.6652-B have been referred to the insurance committees in both chambers. The bills enjoy strong support, with Sen. Jamaal Bailey, D-36, and Assemblyman David Weprin, D-24—chairs of their respective insurance committees—leading the effort. Their sponsorship highlights their leadership and their deep understanding of the needs of insurance producers.
PIANY will continue to work with the sponsors and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to push this bill forward. In the meantime, we encourage producers to stay engaged and informed—because when you succeed, the entire industry thrives.
Get involved
PIANY needs your voice and engagement to move these efforts forward. You can:
- Join the District Office Visit Program;
- Support the Agents Advocacy Coalition; and
- Share updates from PIA Northeast and amplify our message.
Together, we can shape a better future for New York state’s insurance industry.
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.
