Ashley Ranslow, State Director for the National Federation of Independent Business, said on Feb. 20 that reforms targeting fraud and excessive litigation are essential to lowering auto insurance costs for New Yorkers.
Ranslow said the high cost of auto insurance premiums is a significant concern for small business owners across the state. She said, “NFIB commends Governor Kathy Hochul for tackling the auto insurance affordability crisis impacting all New Yorkers, including small business owners. Small businesses often cite the high cost of insurance premiums as a major problem and are looking for relief through premium reductions. The Governor’s proposals to tackle fraud and limit unnecessary and expensive litigation are critical to the effort to bring down auto insurance premiums for Main Street. Make no mistake, fraud and out-of-control lawsuits are driving up insurance premiums for small businesses and consumers.”
New York has faced persistent concerns over rising auto insurance premiums, with small business owners frequently citing coverage costs as a barrier to growth and stability. Policymakers have explored reforms targeting systemic issues such as fraud, litigation costs, and regulatory inefficiencies to improve affordability. Business groups like NFIB have advocated for measures aimed at reducing expenses and addressing challenges for small businesses across the state, according to the National Federation of Independent Business.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, legal system abuse and fraudulent claims can add billions annually to overall insurance costs, which are ultimately passed on to consumers and small businesses through higher premiums. Some states that have enacted targeted reforms report measurable reductions in insurance costs.
Small businesses consistently rank insurance costs among their top concerns. NFIB’s Small Business Economic Trends reports regularly identify insurance expenses as a leading financial burden, with many owners reporting that rising premiums directly impact hiring, investment, and expansion decisions. Addressing cost drivers such as fraud and litigation is cited as a measure to improve economic conditions for small employers.
Ranslow serves as the New York State Director for the National Federation of Independent Business, where she represents the interests of small business owners in legislative and regulatory matters. Her role involves advocating for policies related to costs, economic opportunity, and entrepreneurship across the state.
