ALBANY, N.Y.—The Professional Insurance Agents of New York State Inc. applauds Gov. Kathy Hochul, who officially has signed legislation (A.9407-A/S.9021) that introduces important changes to supplemental liability coverage in auto policies into law. PIANY strongly supported the legislation and actively advocated for these amendments to address the confusion that began last year when legislation was passed to require auto policyholders to “opt-out” of SSL coverage—even if they didn’t have a spouse.

Under the amended law, policyholders will need to “opt-in” to SSL coverage for it to be included in their auto policies—reverting to the pre-2023 requirement. 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.

“The confusion surrounding supplemental spousal liability coverage in New York state, which began last year, has now been addressed,” said PIANY President Richard Andrews, LUTCF. “This legislative update simplifies the process, reduces confusion and ensures that SSL coverage is clearly and appropriately offered to policyholders in the state. Thank you to all the PIANY members who participated in the numerous grassroots campaigns that the association undertook to advocate for this amended law.”

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PIA New York is the premier professional association for independent insurance agents, working to advance the needs of its members and be a leading voice in the insurance industry. PIANY provides members with the very best education, information, advocacy, and business tools possible.