Governor Kathy Hochul has once again vetoed the “Grieving Families Act,” which would allow families to seek compensation for grief and emotional anguish after losing loved ones. Despite revisions aimed at limiting claims and damages, Hochul cited concerns about rising insurance premiums and negative impacts on the healthcare system.
Supporters argue the economic fears are unfounded, pointing to past cost overestimates in similar legislation. Critics, including the New York State Trial Lawyers Association, accuse Hochul of siding with big business over grieving families.
While the bill continues to receive bipartisan legislative support, efforts to override the governor’s veto remain unlikely due to Albany’s rare use of such measures.
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