05.27.2026 Assembly agrees to auto insurance reforms as state budget heads for approval
ALBANY – Motorists found more than 50% responsible for traffic crashes they're suing over will be unable to collect damages for pain and suffering under a budget bill that was passed by the Assembly Tuesday and is expected to win State Senate approval.
The bill, part of a $268 billion budget, also calls for:
- Creating buffer zones to keep protesters away from congregants outside houses of worship.
- Extending deadlines for the state to meet targets for lower pollution-related emissions.
- Softening the state environmental review process for building projects.
- Changes to the Tier 6 pension plan, which includes 61,000 public employees in Western New York.