Prohibits insurers from refusing to renew a policy on certain automobiles used for volunteer social service transportation.
Impact
The enactment of A05710 will directly affect the relationship between insurers and policyholders, specifically targeting volunteer service providers. With this change in legislation, insurance companies will be compelled to offer renewal policies to vehicles used for volunteer work, thereby encouraging more individuals to participate in such altruistic activities without the fear of insurance repercussions. This could likely increase the number of volunteers willing to provide transport services, ultimately benefiting charitable organizations across New York.
Summary
Bill A05710 seeks to amend the insurance law in New York to prohibit insurers from denying renewal of policies for privately-owned automobiles that are used for specific volunteer activities, such as social service transportation or volunteer firefighting. This legislation aims to ensure that individuals who use their vehicles for community service are not unfairly penalized by insurance companies. By broadening the scope of eligibility for vehicle insurance, this bill attempts to promote and support volunteerism within communities.
Contention
The bill, while generally supported for its intent to assist volunteers, may lead to concerns from insurance companies regarding their risk management. Insurers might argue that this could increase their liability or lead to higher risks associated with volunteer-driven vehicles on the roads. Additionally, the insurance industry may express concerns about how broad this policy may be and whether it might cause confusion regarding what constitutes acceptable volunteer-related use. Thus, discussions could arise over balancing protective measures for volunteers while also considering the financial implications for insurance providers.
Prohibits insurer from increasing auto insurance premiums upon renewal for persons 60 years of age or over based solely on the ground of the insured's age.
Prohibits insurance companies from discriminating based on genetic predisposition including refusing to issue or renew, charging any increased rate, or restricting any length of coverage; prohibits insurers from requiring genetic testing.
Prohibiting the use of credit information in underwriting and rating personal automobile and homeowners insurance policies and prohibiting certain surveillance practices by insurers.
Requires insurers and corporations that issue, sell, renew or offer a specialized dental benefits plan policy or contract to report annually on data related to such dental benefits plan policies.
Requires insurers and corporations that issue, sell, renew or offer a specialized dental benefits plan policy or contract to report annually on data related to such dental benefits plan policies.