As NY-YIP Golf Chair and President-Elect I am very proud of the hard work of my fellow colleagues and friends put toward this year’s Annual Golf Outing at Seawane Country Club in Hewlett Harbor, NY.  About 100 insurance professionals were in attendance and funds exceeded those of last year’s event.

The NY Young Insurance Professionals host a number of networking events during the year throughout NYS.  This year marked the 19th Golf Outing Event and the fourth year the YIPS have teamed up with St. Jude to raise funds as the organization looks to expand it charity/funraising efforts both within the local community and abroad.

Again many thanks to the Golf Committee and Executive Board and Volunteers (you know who you are), but a special thanks to those behind the scenes that do all they can and make the event happen such as PIA Staff Terri Vierschilling, Ed Durgurahian and of course our Event Sponsor Morstan General Agency, Inc. and all of our generous sponsors.

Sincerely,

Gino A. Orrino, President

President –Elect Young Insurance Professionals of NY

NY-YIP/PIA Political Action Liaison, NYS

Orrino Capital Services, LLC is an independent agency operating out of two locations in Corona, NY & West Babylon, NY servicing the 5 Boros of NYC, Long Island, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam Counties, NJ, CT PA, VT & FL.  OCS provides all lines of insurance including business, contractors insurance, personal, life, health, and bonds

In the wake of the recent 5.8 earthquake that originated in Virginia this week many have contemplated the ramifications of such an event on a grander scale.  This inevitably begs the question,  am I covered for a loss due to an earthquake?  The answer is most certainly no.  Earthquake damage is excluded on most homeowners and other related property coverage policies usually worded under the earth movement exclusion which includes earthquake, volcanic eruption, sinkhole subsidence and/or landslide/mudslide.

However some companies to allot for earthquake coverage under and endorsement form for an additional premium.  The coverage limit and terms vary depending on the company/carrier and usually bear some type of percentage deductible similar to a windstorm/hurricane deductible.

In the event you would like to speak with me further about this issue or would like to quote this coverage for yourself please contact our offices at 718 606-0293.  Myself and my staff would welcome the opportunity to speak with you in this matter.

Sincerely,

Gino A. Orrino, President

President –Elect Young Insurance Professionals of NY

NY-YIP/PIA Political Action Liaison, NYS

Orrino Capital Services, LLC is an independent agency operating out of two locations in Corona, NY & West Babylon, NY servicing the 5 Boros of NYC, Long Island, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam Counties, NJ, CT PA, VT & FL.  OCS provides all lines of insurance including business, contractors insurance, personal, life, health, and bonds

Once again the buildings department has issued a far sweeping legislation that will certainly hinder the operations of many contractors in the 5 Boros that are not in compliance with the new rules changes.  The Professional Independants Agents Association of NY has ongoing discussions with NYC Counsel to discern these new changes and move to implement change.  A copy of the brief is below.

PIANY’s Industry Resource Center has been tracking the implementation of new rules, effective June 13, 2011, involving the insurance requirements of the New York City Buildings Division since they were first announced in March. 

 Our concern is that contractors (and their agents) may have difficulty meeting the new insurance requirements. Some of these new requirements include:

• a total aggregate limit of coverage per project;
• a set of exclusions that cannot be attached to a policy; and
• a requirement that the commissioner of New York City Department of Buildings be notified in the event of the policy being cancelled, terminated, modified or changed.

 Also included in these changes were modified coverage limits based upon the size and scope of the project. PIANY has contacted the New York City Corporation Counsel for agency divisions looking for clarification on these new rules in hopes of bringing about a change in them. You can see the rule changes here:

 http://www.nyc.gov/html/dob/downloads/rules/1_RCNY_101-08.pdf

http://www.nyc.gov/html/dob/downloads/pdf/new_permittee_insurance_req.pdf

Sincerely,

Gino A. Orrino, President

President –Elect Young Insurance Professionals of NY

NY-YIP/PIA Political Action Liaison, NYS

Orrino Capital Services, LLC is an independent agency operating out of two locations in Corona, NY & West Babylon, NY servicing the 5 Boros of NYC, Long Island, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam Counties, NJ, CT PA & VT.  OCS provides all lines of insurance including business, contractors insurance, personal, life, health, and bonds

Here is bit of excerpt from Professional Insurance Agents website for recent release.  I spent the day in Albany meeting with various reps from Queens County to discuss and push this year’s very insurance consumer driven legislative agenda.  Many of the legislators were in agreement with our position (PIA of NY).  These concerted efforts by myself and many other PIA officers and members led to introduction of bills to the assembly.

Gino A. Orrino, of Corona, N.Y., president-elect of the New York Young Insurance Professionals and Political Action Liaison for the Professional Insurance Agents of New York State Inc., met with a number of local lawmakers throughout the Queens area on key issues affecting independent insurance agents in New York state. He met with the following area legislators: Sen. Tony Avella, D-11; Sen. José Peralta, D-13; Assemblyman Rory Lancman, D-25; Assemblyman Ed Braunstein, D-26; Assemblyman Jeffrion “Jeff” Aubry, D-35; and Assemblyman Francisco Moya, D-39.                     

PIANY is working on behalf of local independent agents, their businesses and their clients for the passage of a comprehensive legislative agenda in 2011, which includes: repealing mandatory photo inspections, standardizing windstorm triggers, requiring uniformity of certificates of insurance subject to the approval of the New York State Insurance Department (NYSID); and increasing tools to fight auto fraud.     

“PIANY has been having conversations with Queens-area lawmakers for many years, sharing ideas and solutions that benefit the New York insurance consumer,” said Orrino. “I appreciate the time and consideration these legislators have provided and we will continue to work with them to help ensure that these concerns are addressed throughout the year.”     

PIANY’s legislative priorities are of particular importance to the insurance-buying public throughout New York state. The association’s key goals for the year are as follows:

• The repeal of mandatory photo inspections. Currently, insurers must require these inspections, which call for photos to be taken of a car before collision or comprehensive insurance is issued. Though originally intended to reduce insurance fraud, the requirement represents an onerous burden for the insured, as failure to obtain an inspection, with sometimes as little as five days’ notice, can result in a lapse of physical damage coverage. Methods for verifying and tracking the existence and physical condition of vehicles have improved greatly since the regulation was enacted, making the regulation antiquated and unnecessary.
• Standardize homeowners insurance windstorm triggers. Windstorm coverage requires classifications of wind damage in order for a policy to cover damage, related to specific “trigger” events. However, these “triggers” differ from policy to policy, potentially leaving gaps for insurance consumers. The development of uniform hurricane deductible triggers is something that must be addressed before we witness the consequences that will occur the next time a catastrophic event hits New York’s coastal areas.
• Require certificates of insurance to be filed and approved by the NYSID. Insurance producers often are asked to complete certificates of insurance forms that add terms or clauses that are not contained in an actual policy. Seeking to prevent parties from insisting on the creation of unique and highly problematic certificates, which potentially mislead policyholders or those who request them about the coverage that is in place, PIA seeks legislation to require that certificates of insurance must be filed with, and approved by, the superintendent of insurance and standardized through industry authorities.
• Reform no-fault. Steep increases in no-fault fraud continue to plague New York state. As a result, the costs associated with fraud and abuse of the state’s no-fault system are ultimately borne by policyholders, our members’ clients and are now the second highest in the country. Nonetheless, New York’s no-fault system remains sound public policy and a viable system to ensure that injured policyholders’ claims are paid in an effective and efficient manner. The time has come, once again, for substantive change of the no-fault system through both legislation and regulation. PIANY supports changes to New York’s laws and regulations to fight the epidemic of insurance fraud that is attacking the state’s no-fault system.

From left: Assemblyman Ed Braunstein, D-26, and Gino A. Orrino.

From left: Gino A. Orrino and Sen. Jose Peralta, D-13.

From left: Gino A. Orrino and Assemblyman Francisco Moya, D-39.

From left: Gino A. Orrino and Assemblyman Jeffrion "Jeff" Aubry, D-35.

From left: Assemblyman Rory Lancman, D-25, and Gino A. Orrino.

From left: Gino A. Orrino and Sen. Tony Avella, D-11.

Sincerely,

Gino A. Orrino, President

President –Elect Young Insurance Professionals of NY

NY-YIP/PIA Political Action Liaison, NYS

Orrino Capital Services, LLC is an independent agency operating out of two locations in Corona, NY & West Babylon, NY servicing the 5 Boros of NYC, Long Island, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam Counties, NJ, CT PA & VT.  OCS provides all lines of insurance including business, contractors insurance, personal, life, health, and bonds

For those of you who don’t know, District 132 Assemblyman Joseph D. Morelle and current NYS Insurance Committee Chair has worked hard for the insurance consumer in NYS and garnered the PIA’s Political Action support. 

Recently Morelle was instrumental in sponsoring a bill, Bill A01952B which “Prohibits insurers from imposing a surcharge for accidents where the property damage does not exceed two thousand dollars and where no physical injury resulted.”  This was a small victory for all us trying to minimize our insurance costs.  More importantly sometimes its not the initial costs but our surcharges after we have an accident that affect our wallets.

I recently met with Joe and found him to be an engaging and receptive member of our legislature as pertains to the needs of the insurance consumer in NYS.

Sincerely,

Gino A. Orrino, President

President –Elect Young Insurance Professionals of NY

NY-YIP/PIA Political Action Liaison, NYS

Orrino Capital Services, LLC is an independent agency operating out of two locations in Corona, NY & West Babylon, NY servicing the 5 Boros of NYC, Long Island, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam Counties, NJ, CT PA & VT.  OCS provides all lines of insurance including business, contractors insurance, personal, life, health, and bonds

Everyday new fresh young minds arrive in our industry ever eager strive for excellence.  Their countless dedication to professionalism in our industry usually crosses over into other facets of life.  Some proffer steadfast committment to chartitable causes other are professional athletes in their spare time.  I am proud to say that my good friend and trusted commercial underwriter Tim Goettleman is all three, a knowledgeable young professional in our industry, dedicated servant to his chartiable organization, Monster Kids (dedicated to serving pediatric hospitals), and all time goal scorer in the National Lacrosse League.  This past weekend Tim surpassed Jesse Hubbard as the all time goal scorer in the history of the league!!!

Congrats to Timmy for excelling in everything he does!

Sincerely,

Gino A. Orrino, President

President –Elect Young Insurance Professionals of NY

NY-YIP/PIA Political Action Liaison, NYS

Orrino Capital Services, LLC is an independent agency operating out of two locations in Corona, NY & West Babylon, NY servicing the 5 Boros of NYC, Long Island, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam Counties, NJ, CT PA & VT.  OCS provides all lines of insurance including business, contractors insurance, personal, life, health, and bonds

Wishing you all happy and safe wishes for the holiday weekend.  Enjoy yourselfs but try to remember a few things:

• Be careful with the barbeque – we all fancy ourselves the next Tyler Florence but remember those propane tanks for the grill require care and supervision to avoid a potential claim
• Watch your speed – State and local police officers will be out in full force during the holiday weekend.  Be alert for local speed limits and keep safe distance from the cars in front of you.  Speeding tickets translate to points on your license which lead to potential increase in your auto insurance rates
• Buckle Up!
• Please do not drink and drive!

Lastly in the spirit of our founding fathers……

These are tepid political times, much unrest and strain.  The Founding Fathers of this country organized in groups to voice their outrage which would lead to positive change in the direction of their land.  Fast forward to today!!!! 

If you are upset with the direction your town or state or this country is headed speak up and voice your opinion, write letters organize.  I don’t recall in recent times where your voice or VOTE will count.  Hold our representatives accountatble.  Remember they work to serve the taxpaying public!!  Do your part and exercise your freedom!

Sincerely,

 Gino A. Orrino, President

President –Elect Young Insurance Professionals of NY

NY-YIP/PIA Political Action Liaison, NYS

Orrino Capital Services, LLC is an independent agency operating out of two locations in Corona, NY & West Babylon, NY servicing the 5 Boros of NYC, Long Island, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam Counties, NJ, CT PA & VT.  OCS provides all lines of insurance including business, contractors insurance, personal, life, health, and bonds

This Week in Health Care Reform: June 11, 2010     

Primary elections were held in 11 states this week as lawmakers returned to Washington, D.C., to face a growing list of unfinished legislative business including a jobs bill and environmental issues stemming from the Gulf crisis. Meanwhile, President Barack Obama launched a public relations campaign to combat skepticism around his new health care reform legislation and to promote the early implementation of certain provisions of the law.  

As the health care reform debate continues to take shape this year, we encourage you and others to engage members of Congress by visiting the Health Action Network.  

Health Care Reform 

Health Care Reform Debate Alive and Well: Democrats continue to sell their plan for health care reform to Americans in the face of mixed public opinion, simultaneously battling Republicans pushing for its repeal.  

Congressional lawmakers address concerns about the new health care reform legislation, particularly among senior citizens , who make up a disproportionate share of voters in midterm elections. Democrats and the administration are eager to publicize certain provisions of the bill, like retaining young adults on their parents’ plans until age 26, as a way to gain support and to turn voters away from Republicans who called for its repeal.  

On Tuesday, President Obama held a nationally televised town hall meeting at a senior center in Maryland to highlight the distribution of $250 rebate checks for senior citizens who hit the so-called “doughnut hole ” in Medicare’s prescription drug coverage. The first round of checks was mailed yesterday and serves as the law’s first monetary benefit.  

State Battle Against Health Care Reform Law Continues: On Monday, Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli disputed the administration’s claim that the state lacks standing to challenge the new federal health care reform law. The lawsuit filed by Cuccinelli in the Eastern District Court cites a Virginia law that exempts state residents from being required to have health care coverage. Sebelius argued that states cannot simply pass a statute that would nullify a federal law. A hearing to determine next steps is set for July 1.  

Public Opinion 

Americans Want Repeal of Health Care Reform: A recently released Rasmussen report suggests that Americans are strongly in favor of repealing President Obama’s health care reform law. Fifty-eight percent of those polled favor repeal, while 62 percent believe the new legislation will increase the budget deficit. In addition, 57 percent predict health care costs will increase, while 51 percent feel the quality of care will decrease as a result of the new health care reform law. 

Looking Ahead 

Democrat lawmakers are expecting to pass the jobs bill next week but will need Republican support in order to get the 60 votes needed for passage. One provision of the bill, a 21 percent cut in Medicare payments to doctors, is being delayed as the bill moves through Congress and would ultimately be blocked if the legislation passes.  

This content is provided solely for informational purposes: it is not intended as and does not constitute legal advice. The information contained herein should not be relied upon or used as a substitute for consultation with legal, accounting, tax and/or other professional advisors.

Sincerely,

 Gino A. Orrino, President

President –Elect Young Insurance Professionals of NY

NY-YIP/PIA Political Action Liaison, NYS

Orrino Capital Services, LLC is an independent agency operating out of two locations in Corona, NY & West Babylon, NY servicing the 5 Boros of NYC, Long Island, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam Counties, NJ, CT PA & VT.  OCS provides all lines of insurance including business, contractors insurance, personal, life, health, and bonds

Once again Congress has failed to renew the national flood program and as such it will lapse effective May 31, 2010.  Happy Memorial Day to all those looking to close on their new homes or refinancing.  Moreover if Murphy’s Law comes into play there is no coverage for any flood claim while the program has lapsed.  Arguments can be made that Congress was working 11th hour on other legislation at the time.  Regardless it is incumbent on them as administrators of this program and our elected officers in their service to the voters to end the band-aiding that has occured since Sepember of 2009.  The time has never been more tepid in politics nor has each and every representative been more receptive to the public in the hopes of securing another term on taxpayer dollar.  Reach our to your local and federal representative offices and demand action.

Happy Memorial Day!  God Bless our Troops and God Bless America!

Sincerely,

 Gino A. Orrino, President

President –Elect Young Insurance Professionals of NY

NY-YIP/PIA Political Action Liaison, NYS

Orrino Capital Services, LLC is an independent agency operating out of two locations in Corona, NY & West Babylon, NY servicing the 5 Boros of NYC, Long Island, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam Counties, NJ, CT PA & VT.  OCS provides all lines of insurance including business, contractors insurance, personal, life, health, and bonds

Just another informative piece given the Spring season courtesy of the insurance information institute.