Advocacy

Abstract: The New York State Department of Health (DOH) recently announced that, effective January 1, 2026, compensation to licensed brokers and agents for Essential Plan health coverage via the NY State of Health Marketplace will no longer be permitted for new enrollments or renewals. Body: ​The New York State Department of Health (DOH) recently announced that, effective January 1, 2026, compensation to licensed brokers and agents for Essential Plan health coverage via the NY State of Health Marketplace will no longer be permitted for new enrollments or renewals.  The Essential Plan is an affordable health plan for New York residents who are not eligible for…

Abstract: Lawmakers concluded their regularly scheduled 2025 legislative session this week, but work is far from over. Body: ​Lawmakers concluded their regularly scheduled 2025 legislative session this week, but work is far from over. Big I New York and the insurance industry secured legislative wins and stopped several negative bills. The largest bill category, however, is important proactive bills that were held in one or both chambers. This means that there is much work to be done over the next six months to prepare for the 2026 legislative session.Big I New York tracked hundreds of bills this session. The following represents the status of just a handful of priority…

Abstract: In politics, persistence and perseverance pay off. Today, the State Senate followed the lead of the Assembly and passed legislation repealing the NYC “Anti-Arson” application! Big I New York will urge Governor Hochul to act quickly on this important insurance industry reform. Body: ​In politics, persistence and perseverance pay off.  Today, the State Senate followed the lead of the Assembly and passed legislation repealing the NYC “Anti-Arson" application!  Big I New York will urge Governor Hochul to act quickly on this important insurance industry reform. Despite this relic from the 1980's having long outlived its usefulness, the bill remained stuck in the State Senate, allegedly…