BCW Advocates for Auto Insurance Reform

A broad coalition of over 30 organizations, including the Business Council of Westchester, is urging Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins to support Gov. Kathy Hochul’s proposals to reform the automobile insurance system.

The coalition highlights that New York’s current “no-fault” system is a breeding ground for organized fraud, and the BCW includes this pressing matter in its 2026 Legislative Agenda.

In 2023, the state recorded over 1,700 staged collisions and tens of thousands of suspected fraudulent incidents. These activities, orchestrated by unethical networks of lawyers and medical providers, have driven premiums to unsustainable levels for families and small businesses.

Key Arguments for Reform:

• National Alignment: The proposal seeks to bring New York’s liability standards in line with 33 other states.
• Proven Results: The letter cites Florida’s recent reforms, which led to insurance companies filing for rate reductions of up to 20%, benefiting over 80% of drivers.
• Economic Impact: High premiums function as a hidden tax, increasing operating costs for trucking companies and municipalities, which raises the price of goods for all consumers.

The organizations emphasize that the proposed common-sense measures would stabilize premiums and discourage opportunistic lawsuits without stripping protection from those with legitimate injuries.

Click here to read the full letter.