New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S00922

Introduced
1/8/25  
Refer
1/8/25  

Caption

Authorizes school districts to establish an insurance reserve fund in an amount and manner determined by a qualified and independent actuary certified by the American Academy of Actuaries to be reasonable and necessary.

Summary

Bill S00922 amends the general municipal law to authorize all school districts in New York State to establish insurance reserve funds. This allows school districts to make expenditures from these funds for losses, claims, actions, or judgments related to insurance requirements, as determined by a qualified actuary. The bill aims to provide school districts with more financial flexibility and security regarding their insurance obligations. The bill specifically mentions that school districts can establish these reserve funds in compliance with existing laws and that the expenditures must be reasonable and necessary as assessed by an independent actuary. This provision is intended to ensure that the funds are used appropriately and effectively to cover the risks for which insurance is required. The impact of this bill on state laws includes the expansion of financial management options available to school districts, allowing them to better prepare for and manage potential liabilities. This could lead to more stable financial planning and risk management practices within the educational sector. General sentiment around the bill appears to be supportive, as it addresses a need for school districts to manage their insurance costs more effectively. However, there may be concerns regarding the oversight of how these funds are managed and the potential for misuse, which could lead to calls for additional regulations or guidelines.

Impact

The bill modifies existing municipal laws to include provisions specifically for school districts, allowing them to create and utilize insurance reserve funds. This change is expected to enhance the financial management capabilities of school districts, enabling them to better handle insurance-related expenditures and liabilities. It may also lead to improved risk management strategies within the educational system, potentially resulting in cost savings over time.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill S00922 is largely positive, as it provides school districts with greater financial flexibility. However, there are underlying concerns about the proper management and oversight of the reserve funds, which could lead to discussions about the need for additional regulations to ensure accountability and transparency.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the oversight of the reserve funds and the criteria used by actuaries to determine the 'reasonable and necessary' expenditures. Some stakeholders may argue for stricter guidelines to prevent potential misuse of the funds, while others may advocate for the autonomy of school districts in managing their financial resources.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY A10973

Authorizes the Goshen central school district to establish an insurance reserve fund.

NY A10573

Authorizes the Holland central school district to establish an insurance reserve fund for any loss, claim, action or judgment for which such school district is authorized or required to purchase or maintain insurance for the kinds of risks for which insurance is authorized.

NY S09345

Authorizes the Holland central school district to establish an insurance reserve fund for any loss, claim, action or judgment for which such school district is authorized or required to purchase or maintain insurance for the kinds of risks for which insurance is authorized.

NY S10396

Provides that the Oswego city school district may establish an insurance reserve fund.

NY A11296

Permits the Vestal Central School District to create an insurance reserve fund

NY S10261

Permits the Vestal Central School District to create an insurance reserve fund.

NY A11391

Permits the Oswego city school district to create an insurance reserve fund

NY A11341

Permits the Chenango Forks central school district to create an insurance reserve fund

NY S10264

Permits the Chenango Forks central school district to create an insurance reserve fund.

NY A09183

Permits the Johnson City central school district to create an insurance reserve fund.

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