A coalition of six South Asian community organizations has joined the movement Citizens for Affordable Rates (CAR), demanding immediate action from Governor Kathy Hochul and state lawmakers to address the rising cost of auto insurance in New York. The groups, which represent tens of thousands of immigrant and working families across Brooklyn, Queens, and beyond, assert that soaring premiums are pushing low-income households to the “breaking point,” forcing them to choose between essential needs like groceries and mandatory car insurance.
CAR spokesperson José Bayona stated that the crisis is threatening the ability of hardworking immigrant families to “survive and build their American dream in New York.”
The organizations point to auto insurance premiums that reportedly exceed $1,700 annually, a cost they claim is nearly 40% higher than the national average. Beyond auto coverage, the coalition states that increasing health and homeowners’ insurance costs are contributing to a broader affordability crisis, driving up rent, mortgage payments, and the cost of essential goods.
The groups joining the effort are: Bangladeshi American Community Development and Youth Services (BACDYS), Council of Peoples Organization (COPO), Human Support Coalition, India Home, Inc., Project New Yorker, and Sakhi for South Asian Women. These organizations provide crucial social services and advocacy for the South Asian community in New York City.
The coalition argues that a major factor driving the high costs is fraud and excessive litigation. They allege that fraudulent claims, including staged car crashes, account for up to 10% of total insurance payouts, which directly inflates premiums for honest, law-abiding families.
The groups are calling for meaningful reforms that include crackdowns on insurance fraud and new policies to reduce abusive litigation. They maintain that political will from Governor Hochul and state lawmakers is required to challenge the current system and protect New York’s working population from unsustainable expenses.
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
