The New York State Assembly approved a broad range of bills that stand to impact the legal system—including one affecting insurance appeals—with the proposals now headed to Gov. Kathy Hochul.

In a 101-40 vote, the chamber, which is controlled by Democrats, passed the "fairness for accident victims act" meant to amend §5106 of the Insurance Law. It potentially eliminates the doctrine of collateral estoppel in the context of insurance claims involving serious personal injury.