Relates to prohibiting the exclusion of coverage for losses or damages caused by exposure to lead-based paint; provides that no insurer licensed or permitted by the superintendent to provide liability coverage to rental property owners shall exclude coverage for losses or damages caused by exposure to lead-based paint.
NEW YORK STATE ASSEMBLY MEMORANDUM IN SUPPORT OF LEGISLATION submitted in accordance with Assembly Rule III, Sec 1(f)
BILL NUMBER: A1067
SPONSOR: Rivera TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the insurance law, in relation to prohibiting the exclu-
sion of coverage for losses or damages caused by exposure to lead-based
paint
PURPOSE:
This bill would help to protect renters who are exposed to lead-based
paint by prohibiting the exclusion of coverage for losses or damages
caused by exposure to lead-based paint from liability coverage provided
to rental property owners.
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1: Amends the Insurance Law by adding a new section 3457, which
prohibits exclusion for lead hazards on and after the 26th month follow-
ing the bill taking effect.
Section 2: Sets an immediate effective date.
JUSTIFICATION:
Lead poisoning leads to a multitude of issues that can detrimentally
impact a person throughout their lifetime. It leads to decreased IQ and
cognitive function, developmental delays, and behavioral problems in
children. In adults, lead poisoning can manifest itself in the form of
hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Some have even linked early
exposure to lead with Alzheimer's disease. Extreme levels can cause
severe and immediate consequences, such as seizures, comas, and even
death. The most common cause of lead poisoning in children is the inges-
tion of lead paint from poorly maintained residential housing units.
New York State has a lead poisoning problem. Because lead will remain in
U.S. housing for decades to come, it is important that New York State
take action to protect renters. This bill requires that liability cover-
age include coverage for injuries or damage caused by exposure to lead
paint. If signed into law, this would be an important measure to protect
New Yorkers who are exposed to this dangerous substance.
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
2023-2024:A1687 Passed the Assembly
2021-2022-A.7488 Passed the Assembly
2019-2020:A.6062 Passed the Assembly
2017-2018:A.7786 Passed the Assembly
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
None.
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.
