David Dickson, of Fairport , N.Y. , immediate past president of the Professional Insurance Agents of New York State Inc., has met with a number of local lawmakers throughout the Rochester region on insurance issues affecting consumers and businesses in the Western New York area. Dickson spoke with senators and members of the Assembly on the subject of the association's top legislative issues for 2008, which include: property insurance availability; auto insurance surcharges; claims being turned down for “late notice” to the insurer; and several items that remain to be addressed after New York state's historic workers' compensation reforms.

“Local businesses and homeowners are concerned about acquiring affordable insurance,” said Dickson. “By having conversations with our area legislators and keeping them aware of our needs, we can help ensure that these concerns are addressed throughout the year.”

PIANY's legislative priorities for this year are of particular importance to the insurance-buying public throughout New York state. The association's legislative agenda reflects issues that profoundly affect the business of all professional independent insurance agents and, as a result, directly impact their customers. For this reason, the association has arranged frequent meetings with local legislators to discuss insurance-related issues that affect residents of the Rochester area.

Dickson has met thus far with the following area legislators: Assemblywoman Susan V. John (D-131), Assemblyman David R. Koon (D-135), Assemblyman Joseph D. Morelle (D-132), Senator Michael F. Nozzolio (D-54), Assemblyman Bill Reilich (D-134) and Senator Joseph E. Robach (D-56).