NY A02357

Creates new Article 42-A of Insurance Law establishing comprehensive regulations for pet insurance policies marketed to New York residents, effective July 1, 2019.

Prohibits pet insurance policies from excluding pre-existing conditions, congenital anomalies, hereditary disorders, or chronic conditions.

Requires accident coverage waiting periods not exceed one day, mandates annual deductibles only, and limits waiting periods, deductibles, co-insurance, and policy limits to prominent first-page disclosure.

Mandates denied claims review by veterinarians using reasonable medical certainty standard, with secondary review by independent unaffiliated veterinarian if initial denial upheld.

Prohibits premium increases based on claims history, requires superintendent approval for rate increases disclosed 60 days prior, prevents denial of renewal based on claims history or pet age, and prohibits mandatory binding arbitration clauses that would prevent policyholders from pursuing court remedies.