Jul 9, 2020

PIANY-supported paratransit bill introduced in state Assembly

Legislation (A.10734) that would reduce the minimum insurance limits required for some paratransit vehicles was introduced in the state Assembly yesterday.

The legislation would lower the minimum insurance limits from $1.5 million to $300,000 for common carrier ambulettes, paratransit vehicles and commuter vans operated by the authority of the New York Department of Transportation. This bill would affect these vehicles that seat eight or more people. The $1.5 million limit was a response to the tragic Schoharie limousine crash that killed 20 people last year.

This legislation is a direct result of PIANY’s advocacy. Numerous members contacted PIANY to request that common carrier ambulettes, paratransit vehicles and commuter vans be excluded from the increased insurance minimums because those types of vehicles are not for-hire by the public like limousines. Instead, they are under contract with hospitals, nursing homes and rehab centers. Further, the number of insurance carriers that provide this insurance coverage is limited, and few are willing to write  $1.5 million policies.

Companion legislation was introduced in the state Senate on May 13, 2020. A.10734 has been referred to the Assembly Transportation Committee for consideration.