Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. announced recently that the Senate passed legislation that would allow sole proprietors of businesses to purchase health insurance at group rates, saving them as much as $5,000 a year.

"There are more than 100,000 sole proprietor businesses in New York State and this legislation is essential in helping them afford health insurance," Fuschillo said. "The cost of health insurance is a huge financial burden for sole proprietors like accountants, barbers, or contractors. This legislation will make health insurance more available to small businesses at a better rate."

According to Fuschillo the legislation (s.7360) requires health insurers and HMO's that offer group coverage via chambers of commerce or associations to offer the same policies to sole proprietors and sole employees of nonprofit organizations. The legislation offers a premium rate differential for sole proprietors and employees of up to 20 percent until January 1, 2006. Annual savings are estimated at as much as $5,000 for each business owner.

"Small business is the heart of our business economy, and small business owners have a right to affordable health insurance for their families," said Fuschillo. "This has the possibility to make affordable health insurance available to more than 250,000 people by giving sole proprietors access to the same coverage as other small businesses."

Senator Fuschillo, announced that the New York State Senate passed legislation he sponsored to provide additional funding for the World Trade Center relief efforts through the sale of commemorative license plates.

Fuschillo said that the legislation to aid the relief fund (S.7312) would provide for the issuance of distinctive World Trade Center license plates for the regular registration plate fee and an additional one time fee of $25. That additional charge would then be deposited in New York State's World Trade Center Relief Fund to assist in the relief efforts.

The purpose of the World Trade Center Relief Fund is to assist the families and dependents of the victims of the September 11th terrorist attacks. This fund is for the benefit of all victims both injured and deceased, including innocent civilians, the dedicated firefighters, police, Port Authority officers, Emergency Medical Personnel and relief workers. After the monetary needs of these affected people have been addressed, consideration may be given to other related relief and recovery expenses.

"I am proud to sponsor the proposal to create the World Trade Center license plate. This measure represents a meaningful way for every New York driver to get involved in the relief effort and truly make a difference," said Fuschillo. "These plates will be a symbol of the strength we possess when we stand together as New Yorkers and as Americans. The donation to the World Trade Center Relief Fund also provides New Yorkers with another opportunity to assist in the ongoing recovery and relief efforts."

This legislation was sent to the Assembly.

Senator Fuschillo recently presented Don Dreyer, director of the Nassau County Office for the Physically Challenged with an official copy of the law he authored signed by Governor George Pataki, that will further ensure that disabled drivers with valid New York State Disabled License Plates will not be overcharged at the gas pump. The law requires every service station with both self-service and full-service pumps to post a sign stating "Full Service at Self-Service prices 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. for persons with a valid NYS Disabled License Plate." The law also requires the commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles to notify disabled license registrants of the right to access pumped gasoline at self-service prices.

"This law empowers disabled drivers with the knowledge that they can have their fuel pumped for them and pay the lower self-serve price." Fuschillo said. "I am thankful to Don Dreyer for the dedication and his insight he puts forward to improve the quality of life for the disabled."

Dreyer applauded the law stating, "The new measure will likely add to the number of disabled drivers who understand that they don't have to pay extra for gasoline service. In a time of increasing accessibility in employment opportunities, consumerism, and cultural and recreational facilities, the disabled need to be fully aware of their rights and not be overcharged at the pump."