Advocacy

​​We are pleased to announce that Governor Cuomo has signed legislation to require state agencies to consider specific impacts on small businesses when creating new regulations​​. The bill​, sponsored by Assemblywoman Simotas (D, Queens) and Senator Kaplan (D, Nassau County), is an important victory for small independent agencies across the state. Effective November 1, 2020, state agencies will be required to​ conduct an assessment of the minimum time needed by small businesses and local governments to apply with a new regulation, including practical, legal, and economic constraints on compliance. Furthermore, state agencies will be required to actively solicit the participation of small businesses and local governments during the rulemaking process. …

​​Tod​ay, Governor Cuomo signed legislation (S.1405/A.7531) aimed at protecting homeowners from "storm chasers," unscrupulous roofers who exploit​ homeowners in need of home repair services after a major storm, performing sub-standard work that must be redone, or no work at all​. Big I NY and partners in the insurance industry undertook a multi-year campaign to pass this legislation to protect our customers. Big I NY member agents sent emails to lawmakers and the governor urging passage of this important bill.  The legislation, which takes effect 180 days from today, establishes a number of protections, including: ​Establishing specific requirements and responsibilities of roofing contractors Requiring a roofing contractor to enter into…