The start of New York state’s legislative session comes with its fair share of traditions and responsibilities. From the swearing-in of new assemblymembers and senators to the unveiling of committee rosters, these rituals set the stage for the year ahead. Last week,...
Conn: Bill would ban credit history as an underwriting factor for homeowners insurance
To enhance consumer protections and promote fairness, a new bill has been introduced in Connecticut that would impact what factors insurers can use in underwriting. If passed, this legislation would amend Title 38a of the general statutes and would prohibit insurers...
N.Y.: First-in-the-nation PPL policy takes effect
On Jan. 1, 2025, New York became the first state in the country to offer paid time off for prenatal care or any medical care related to pregnancy. In her efforts to make New York one of the most worker friendly states in the nation, Gov. Kathy Hochul stayed true to...
Infrastructure series: Transportation spending and its impact on insurance
The passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in 2021 represents one of the most significant investments in U.S. infrastructure in decades. Allocating $1.2 trillion over 10 years, the act emphasizes modernizing transportation systems, repairing aging...
Tesla model cars cited for being at high risk of fatal crashes: what is behind this?
Tesla cars are becoming a more frequent sight on the road. In 2023, the company sold delivered 1.8 million Model 3/Y cars to its customers—while they aren’t the most dominant car brand, drivers see at least one or two of them during their morning commute. While these...
The insurance gaps of e-bikes and e-scooters
In recent years, e-bikes and e-scooters—or micromobility vehicles—have taken off across the United States, offering a greener, cheaper and more convenient way to get around, especially in crowded cities and sprawling rural areas. Whether it’s commuters, leisure riders...
Unable to leave: why people stay behind in disasters
Before a natural disaster hits your community, it’s generally agreed that the best possible thing you can do is evacuate. However, as in the case of the recent Hurricanes Helene and Milton, we hear stories about people staying behind to weather the storm. Usually, the...
Key benefits of offering specialized insurance products to niche markets
If you’re an independent insurance agent, today’s clients—like those of, well, any service provider—expect handcrafted personalized solutions tailored to their specific needs—whether it’s their industry, niche or unique circumstances. The best thing about this...
Conn. election results: State-level highlights
Connecticut’s recent state elections brought some changes to the Senate and House while leaving key leadership positions and party dominance intact. Although constitutional offices (governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, treasurer, comptroller and secretary...
N.Y. election update: Status quo maintained
In the recent New York state elections, both the Senate and Assembly experienced some notable changes, setting the stage for shifts in legislative dynamics when the Legislature reconvenes in January. Senate overview The New York state Senate Democrats successfully...