Governor Hochul: Support New York’s Nonprofit Organizations by Signing Bill A.5718b/S.5959b

 

 

 

Who is impacted?

Across New York State, nonprofit carshare organizations and the communities they serve are under severe threat. Due to an automobile insurance market failure in New York, Ithaca Carshare lost their auto insurance in May, 2023. This will also cause the newly launched carshares in Albany and Rochester to close, and Buffalo Carshare will not be able to re-launch despite millions in investments in carshares from NYSERDA. There is an auto insurance market failure for nonprofits in NY and this bill will solve that problem. 

Thousands of New Yorkers, many of whom rely on these carshares as their primary means of transportation, stand to face added costs of up to $300-$400 a month. This added financial burden is particularly devastating for the most underserved and financially challenged communities, deepening the divide between those who have access to affordable transportation and those who don't. Additionally, staff members of these organizations are confronting furloughs and potential unemployment, leading to a cascade of economic and social repercussions.

 

What's at Stake?

The survival and viability of nonprofit carshares in New York are on the line. Without immediate intervention, these vital services will terminate, leaving many without affordable transportation options. This isn't merely about carsharing; it's about the broader ecosystem of nonprofits across the state who need auto insurance access to better serve their communities. If the status quo remains, we risk not only the closure of Ithaca Carshare but also the ripple effects on nonprofits in Albany, Rochester, Buffalo, and beyond. Legislation A.5718b/S.5959b (https://nyassembly.gov/leg/?default_fld=&leg_video=&bn=A05718&term=2023&Summary=Y&Actions=Y&Memo=Y&Text=Y) is more than a lifeline for carshares; it's an essential tool ensuring that all New York nonprofits can access the auto insurance they critically require.

 

Why NOW is the time to act:

Every passing day without Bill A.5718b/S.5959b being signed marks another day nonprofits like Ithaca Carshare remain paralyzed, furloughing staff and suspending indispensable services. Ithaca Carshare's message is clear: the coming weeks are pivotal for their continued existence. Each delay pushes these organizations closer to permanent shutdown. But the issue transcends carshares. It affects the myriad of nonprofits that could benefit from this bill, ensuring their insurance access to serve their communities. Given there's a six-month waiting period post the bill's endorsement, procrastination is a luxury we can't afford. Now is the moment for Governor Hochul to act decisively, champion our nonprofit sector, and sign Bill A.5718b/S.5959b

 

What you can do:

 

We earnestly request all New Yorkers to sign this petition and share it with your sphere of influence. Additionally, please contact Governor Hochul's office at 518-474-8390 and plead for her to sign this vital bill. Share your stories, articulate the significance of nonprofit carshares in your life, and advocate for a more equitable and inclusive transportation future in New York State.

Additionally, you can contact Governor Hochul via the following link:

https://www.governor.ny.gov/content/governor-contact-form .

Ithaca Carshare's message is clear: the coming days are pivotal for their continued existence. They will close on September 1 if Governor Hochul has not signed the bill. 

Thanks!

Find out more:

https://www.ithacacarshare.org/insurance-updates/