LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to
proclaim May 2, 2016, as Life Insurance Day in the State of New York

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize official
weeks that are set aside to increase awareness of areas of concern which
affect the lives of citizens of New York State; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to memorial-
ize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 2, 2016, as Life Insurance
Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of
National Life Insurance Day; and
WHEREAS, Life Insurance Day marks the anniversary of the first day
life insurance became available in the United States on May 2, 1759; and
WHEREAS, The sale of life insurance in the United States began in the
late 1760s after Presbyterian Synods in Philadelphia and New York City
created the Corporation for Relief of Poor and Distressed Widows and
Children of Presbyterian Ministers; Episcopalian priests also created a
comparable relief fund in 1769; and
WHEREAS, Between 1787 and 1837, more than two dozen life insurance
companies were created, laying the groundwork for a vital industry which
has grown to become an important tool in helping Americans care for
their loved ones in case of emergency; and
WHEREAS, Today, life insurance performs many important functions for
the survivors of those who purchase it; it can be used to allow
subscribers' families time to grieve and to pay off debts and loans, as
well as to keep families in their homes and to pre-fund a child's
college education; and
WHEREAS, In addition, life insurance benefits help businesses to
remain in families, and can provide a stream of income for survivors to
live on for a period of time; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body celebrates the importance of Insurance
Day in the State of New York, and its contributions to helping citizens
of the Empire State enjoy peace of mind for their families in case of
emergencies; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 2, 2016, as Life
Insurance Day in the State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New
York.