N.Y.: Federal Scaffold Law reform and the future of insurance affordability
For independent insurance agents in New York state, affordability is no longer an abstract concern. It is a daily challenge that shows up in difficult renewals, shrinking carrier lists, and clients struggling to absorb ever increasing premiums. Few laws have...
N.Y.: Proposed public adjuster solicitation bill would strengthen post-loss consumer protections
A new bill proposed in the New York state Assembly aims to protect property owners in the critical moments following a loss by placing temporary restrictions on public adjuster solicitation. The bill—A.9390-A/S.9082, sponsored by Assemblymember Sam Berger, D-27, and...
N.Y.: Have you met TED (again)?
As New York state’s budget season gets underway, the familiar alphabet soup of Albany returns—none more important to insurance professionals than the Transportation, Economic Development and Environmental Conservation budget, better known...
Staying safe in your home this winter
We're in the middle of winter, and we have a long way to go until spring. Who wants to get caught out in the cold? This means you’ll be spending more time indoors to avoid the nasty weather, which leaves you vulnerable to some risks at home as you try to keep warm....
Stay in tune: Insurance keeps musical instruments safe
Music is a wonderful thing, and the best part of it is that you can make it yourself. There’s very little stopping you from purchasing an instrument, finding an instructor and taking the time to hone your new craft. However, you must take great care of your...
Weekly Dispatch: Jan. 22, 2026
AM Best revises outlook on global reinsurance market from positive to stable. NHID celebrates 175 years of innovating the insurance industry. New Jersey’s new governor nominates Susan Ochs as DOBI commissioner. New York state introduces auto insurance legislation to address affordability. Plus, you can read about state-specific industry news, advocacy updates, technical resources, accolades, education opportunities and upcoming events in this issue of the Weekly Dispatch.
N.Y.: Proposed e-scooter insurance bill has vital implications for independent agents
Legislation (A.9568) introduced by Assemblymember Sam Berger, D-27, would amend New York state’s Vehicle and Traffic Law to require electric scooter service platforms to maintain liability insurance coverage for scooters offered to the public through app-based digital...
N.J.: New e-bike law closes insurance gaps: A win for public safety and common sense
New Jersey has taken a major step forward to regulate the growing use of electric bicycles with the passage and signing of S-4834—a measure strongly supported by PIANJ. As e-bikes have rapidly evolved from recreational novelties into legitimate transportation...
Avoid the hazards of certificates of liability insurance: Current legal requirements by state
Certificates of liability insurance were first created by ACORD in 1976, known as ACORD 25. However, the providing of evidence of financial responsibility for liability exposures dates to the late 19th century and early 20th century. The problem with COIs is that they...
On the origin of pet insurance
I’m fascinated by the process of evolution. As a kid, I was a dinosaur fanatic, and I was perplexed by the thought of a Stegosaurus (my favorite dinosaur) evolving into a bird. Luckily, I have since wrapped my brain around that. I’ve always thought of evolution as a...


