Bill > S01196

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework to improve automobile insurance transparency and consumer protection in New York State through two primary mechanisms. First, it creates an Automobile Insurance Consumer Information Act that requires the state insurance department to maintain a database providing consumers with detailed information about insurance rates and company complaint rankings. Consumers would be able to request a list of the five lowest-cost insurers and five insurers with the best complaint rankings for their specific profile, including factors like vehicle type, driver age, and desired coverage. Second, the bill establishes an independent Office of Public Insurance Consumer Advocate, appointed by the governor, with broad powers to represent insurance consumers' interests. The advocate can intervene in insurance proceedings, access department records, recommend legislation, conduct investigations, and ensure consumer perspectives are represented in rate-setting and regulatory processes. Additional provisions require insurers and the insurance department to cooperate with the new consumer advocate, provide more transparency in rate filings, and allow municipalities to petition for insurance rate reductions. The overall goal is to make automobile insurance more competitive, transparent, and consumer-friendly by providing more accessible information and creating a dedicated consumer protection mechanism.

Business and Industry

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1196