Recently, there has been confusion surrounding supplemental spousal liability coverage in auto policies in New York state. It has gone from an opt-in option, to automatic coverage, and back again to an opt-in option—unless a spouse is indicated on the application. This amendment (A.9407-A/S.9021), which passed the Legislature last year is an attempt to eliminate the confusion around this coverage, especially when the insured was single.
What has changed
Policyholders will once again need to opt in to SSL coverage for it to be included in their auto policies. However, there is one key exception: if the first-named insured indicates on the insurance application that he or she has a spouse, SSL coverage will be included in the policy automatically. The first-named insured still retains the option to decline this coverage by providing written notice to the insurance carrier.
This legislative update simplifies the process, reduces confusion, and ensures that SSL coverage is clearly and appropriately offered to policyholders in New York state.
PIANY—acting on concerns from association members—pushed for this legislation. We want to thank all the PIANY members who took the time to voice their concerns about the 2023 changes, and who assisted the association in achieving another legislative success with these 2024 amendments.
For more information about SSL, see New York Department of Financial Services announces the inclusion of spousal liability coverage on personal and commercial automobile insurance policies and Supplemental spousal liability FAQs.
Shirley Albright, CPIA, CISR
Shirley Albright, CPIA, CISR, has been a cornerstone of PIA since joining the association in 1983. Over the decades, she has contributed meaningfully across numerous departments, demonstrating unwavering dedication and leadership. In 1995, Shirley played a pivotal role in launching the Industry Resource Center, where she led the development of a comprehensive software system designed to log and manage all incoming and outgoing member inquiries—an innovation that transformed the center’s operational efficiency. As director of the Industry Resource Center, Shirley oversees the center’s daily operations, including the triage and resolution of thousands of member inquiries and multiple database updates, ensuring timely and accurate support across the organization. Her industry accomplishments include earning her New York state property/casualty broker’s license and has obtaining the CPIA and CISR professional designations, underscoring her deep expertise and commitment to excellence in the insurance industry.
