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Asm. Jeffrey Dinowitz
District 81
Democrat
First elected 1996
Jeffrey Dinowitz has represented AD-81 in the Bronx since 1996, holding one of the most heavily Democratic seats in the chamber, with a voter registration lean of D+60 and a base electoral lean of D+68; his 2024 margin of 54.0 points was his narrowest in over a decade, though the district rates Safe D across all modeled scenarios. The district is majority-minority, with 42.8% Hispanic, 36.5% white, and 18.3% Black residents, a 38.0% homeownership rate, a median household income of $80,222, and a poverty rate of 15.9%, reflecting a densely populated urban constituency with 69.0% Democratic registration against 9.0% Republican. In the 2025 session, Dinowitz sponsored 162 bills, with his heaviest concentration in General Business (20 bills), Public Health (15 bills), Penal (12 bills), Civil Practice Law and Rules (11 bills), Education (10 bills), and Insurance (10 bills). His top lobbying sectors by bill subject matter — General Business, Insurance, and Public Service — align with his legislative output, particularly around consumer protection, arbitration reform, and utility regulation.AI
Vulnerability Index AD-81
Base lean: D+68
Favorable D
Neutral
Favorable R
- Limited contested election data — registration lean used as primary signal
Scenario model: ±5pt national environment shift applied to district base lean (D+68). Base lean blends voter registration (40%) with recent contested general election margins (60%), using up to the last 4 general elections with margins under 40 points. Ratings: Safe D/R = 15+ pts, Likely = 8–14 pts, Lean = 3–7 pts, Toss-up = within 2 pts. Generic ballot from Silver Bulletin (Nate Silver), as of 5/1/2026. Not a prediction — reflects structural competitiveness under different cycle environments.
Electoral History AD-81
General Elections
| Year | Winner | Runner-up | Margin |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Jeffrey Dinowitz 77.0% (29,907) | Kevin Pazmino 23.0% (8,944) | 54.0pts |
| 2022 | Jeffrey Dinowitz 75.7% (18,750) | Jessica Altagracia Woolford 14.2% (3,518) | 61.5pts |
| 2020 | Jeffrey Dinowitz 81.1% (37,818) | Nicole J. Torres 16.0% (7,443) | 65.1pts |
| 2018 | Jeffrey Dinowitz 87.6% (29,757) | Alan H. Reed 12.4% (4,209) | 75.2pts |
| 2016 | Jeffrey Dinowitz 91.7% (33,431) | Alan H. Reed 8.3% (3,010) | 83.4pts |
| 2014 | Jeffrey Dinowitz 90.9% (15,385) | Alan H. Reed 9.1% (1,543) | 81.8pts |
| 2012 | Jeffrey Dinowitz 93.0% (32,250) | Judith Kunz 7.0% (2,434) | 86.0pts |
| 2010 | Jeffrey Dinowitz 77.2% (16,660) | Joseph McLaughlin 22.8% (4,915) | 54.4pts |
| 2008 | Jeffrey Dinowitz 95.8% (28,702) | Jeffrey Klapper 4.2% (1,271) | 91.6pts |
| 2006 | Jeffrey Dinowitz 95.1% (17,539) | Steve Bradian 4.9% (908) | 90.2pts |
| 2004 | Jeffrey Dinowitz 83.0% (26,501) | Stephen Bradian 17.0% (5,437) | 66.0pts |
| 2002 | Jeffrey Dinowitz 93.8% (15,244) | Patrick McManus 4.2% (679) | 89.6pts |
| 2000 | Jeffrey Dinowitz 83.6% (25,497) | Martin Richman 16.4% (4,997) | 67.2pts |
| 1998 | Jeffrey Dinowitz 80.0% (18,461) | Joseph Lucchese 18.8% (4,325) | 61.2pts |
| 1996 | Jeffrey Dinowitz 75.8% (21,973) | Brian Anderson 16.0% (4,637) | 59.8pts |
Primary Elections
| Year | Winner | Runner-up | Margin |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 (Democratic) | Jeffrey Dinowitz 63.7% (10,325) | George Diaz 36.3% (5,889) | 27.4pts |
Source: NYS Board of Elections certified results. ⚡ = margin under 10 pts. District history reflects 2022 redistricted boundaries.
Voter Registration
District 81 Profile
Population
124,919
Median income
$80,222
Median rent
$1,680
Homeownership
38.0%
Education (BA+)
43.5%
Poverty rate
15.9%
Uninsured rate
5.4%
Unemployment rate
8.7%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates (2024).
Demographics
White
36.5%
Black
18.3%
Hispanic
42.8%
Asian
4.8%
Median age
41.6
Foreign born
32.3%
Limited English households
9.9%
Veterans
3.1%
Disability rate
15.4%
Commute Mode
Drive alone
26.2%
Public transit
44.0%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Estimates (2024). Race and ethnicity figures may not sum to 100% — Hispanic/Latino is an ethnicity category that overlaps with racial groups.
Legislative Activity (2025–2026)
Bills sponsored
162
Floor debate appearances
25
Years in office
30
Bill sponsorship from NYS Open Legislation API. Joint hearing appearances from NYS Senate hearing transcripts.
Floor Session Activity 2025–2026
A03318
2026-03-30
Amend General Business Law requiring private arbitration organizations to maintain publicly searchable database of consumer arbitration information
The Assembly debated A03318, which would require private arbitration organizations involved in 50 or more consumer arbitration proceedings annually to maintain a publicly searchable database of arbitration information for the preceding five years. Sponsor Assemblyman Dinowitz emphasized the bill's goal of transparency and accountability, arguing that such organizations already possess the required data. Assemblywoman Walsh sought clarification on implementation details, including whether the five-year lookback requirement applies retroactively beginning January 1, 2027, and how partial prevailing outcomes would be recorded. The bill has passed the Assembly in previous sessions.
A01219
PASSED
2026-03-25
An act to amend the Civil Practice Law and Rules, in relation to grounds for vacating an arbitration award on the basis of partiality of the arbitrator
The Assembly passed A1219, sponsored by Asm. Dinowitz, which would require neutral arbitrators in all arbitration matters and mandate disclosure of potential conflicts of interest. The bill aims to protect fairness in arbitration contracts, particularly for individuals facing large corporations in disputes. Sponsor Dinowitz argued the measure ensures parties can object to biased arbitrators before proceedings begin. However, Asm. Gandolfo opposed the bill, contending it would upend the long-established practice of panel arbitration where each party selects an arbitrator who then agrees with the opposing party's arbitrator on a neutral third arbitrator. Gandolfo also raised concerns the bill could prevent labor unions from using their preferred arbitrators in labor disputes. The Minority Conference voted against the bill while the Majority Conference voted in favor.
A01450
PASSED
2026-03-19
An act to amend the Insurance Law, in relation to restricting insurers from demanding intrusive, personal, financial, and tax information from insureds as a standard practice in processing ordinary theft claims
The Assembly passed A01450, sponsored by Assemblymember Dinowitz, restricting insurance companies from demanding intrusive personal, financial, and tax information from policyholders filing theft claims unless special articulable circumstances directly related to the claim exist. The bill, which has been pending since the 1990s, establishes that such demands constitute unfair claim settlement practices under Insurance Law. Dinowitz argued the measure would prevent insurers from requesting irrelevant information like voter registration cards and tax returns, streamlining claims processing and ensuring people receive payment they deserve. Assemblywoman Walsh expressed concern the bill lacks supporting data on the problem's scope and could hamper fraud detection efforts, noting existing Department of Financial Services regulations already govern claim practices. She warned disputes over whether circumstances warrant information requests could lead to costly litigation. The Majority Conference supported the bill while the Minority Conference opposed it, though members were permitted to vote their conscience.
A01450
PASSED
2026-03-19
An act to amend the Insurance Law, in relation to restricting insurers from demanding intrusive, personal, financial, and tax information from insureds as a standard practice in processing ordinary theft claims
The Assembly passed A01450, sponsored by Assemblymember Dinowitz, restricting insurance companies from demanding intrusive personal, financial, and tax information from policyholders filing theft claims unless special articulable circumstances directly related to the claim exist. The bill, which has been pending since the 1990s, establishes that such demands constitute unfair claim settlement practices under Insurance Law. During debate, Dinowitz argued the measure would force insurers to act appropriately and streamline claim resolution, while Assemblywoman Walsh expressed concern the bill lacks supporting data on the problem's scope and could hamper fraud detection efforts. Walsh noted the Department of Financial Services already has regulations governing claim practices and cited bipartisan opposition in prior legislative sessions. The Majority Conference supported the bill while the Minority Conference opposed it, though members were permitted to vote their conscience.
A02539
PASSED
2026-03-11
Requiring mandatory arbitration clauses in certain consumer contracts to be printed in large font type
The Assembly passed A02539, sponsored by Asm. Dinowitz, requiring mandatory arbitration clauses in consumer contracts to be printed in 16-point font. Assemblywoman Walsh opposed the measure, arguing it is redundant because New York State has prohibited mandatory arbitration clauses in consumer contracts since 1984. Walsh stated the bill could confuse businesses and consumers by running contrary to the existing prohibition and noted the New York State Insurance Association's opposition. Despite the minority party's opposition, the bill passed. The bill takes effect on the 180th day.
A04346
PASSED
2026-02-05
Amend Education Law relating to administration of certain immunizations by pharmacist or certified nurse practitioner
A09475 / S08823
PASSED
2026-02-03
An act to amend the General Business Law, in relation to the definition of the term employer and to the requesting or use for employment purposes of the consumer credit history of an applicant for employment or employee by an employer, labor organization, employment agency or any agent thereof
The Assembly passed A09475, sponsored by Asm. Dinowitz, a chapter amendment to 2025 legislation restricting the use of consumer credit history in employment decisions. The amendment narrows the scope of the original bill by defining "employer" and exempting State employees and positions subject to State agency background investigations. The measure is modeled after New York City law. During debate, Asm. Mikulin expressed concern that the bill creates an unenforceable prohibition, arguing that employers could still obtain credit reports even if prohibited from using them in hiring decisions. The Minority Conference opposed the measure.
A09438 / S03876
PASSED
2026-01-20
Requirement to include a comparison of prices charged by energy services companies on a customer's billing statement
The Assembly passed A09438, sponsored by Assemblymember Dinowitz, requiring energy services companies to include price comparisons on customer billing statements. Assemblymember Palmesano voted against the measure, arguing that if transparency is the goal, utilities should be required to display all green energy mandates on bills. Palmesano noted some improvements from prior versions but maintained his opposition, saying the Chamber should address broader ratepayer concerns including costs borne by small businesses, manufacturers, farmers, and seniors.
A09475
TABLED
2026-01-13
An act to amend the General Business Law, in relation to the definition of the term employer and to the requesting or use for employment purposes of the consumer credit history of an applicant for employment or employee by an employer, labor organization, employment agency or any agent thereof
A09476 / S04358-A
PASSED
2026-01-13
An act to amend the Education Law, in relation to expanding the Veterans Tuition Awards Program to allow the transfer of unused benefits to an eligible immediate family member
A03240-A
PASSED
2025-06-16
An act to amend the Education Law, in relation to expanding the Veterans Tuition Awards Program to allow the transfer of unused benefits to a spouse, survivor or child
A08463
PASSED
2025-06-11
Francesco's Law — safe firearm storage requirements and data collection on unsafe storage incidents
The Assembly passed Francesco's Law (A08463), sponsored by Asm. Khaleel Anderson, which strengthens safe firearm storage requirements and mandates data collection on unsafe storage incidents. The bill clarifies existing law to ensure firearms not in immediate control are secured, directs the Office of Gun Violence Prevention to conduct public education campaigns, and requires DCJS to collect data on violations. The legislation was inspired by Francesco, a 17-year-old Long Island resident who died by suicide in 2021 using an unsecured family firearm after experiencing bullying. Supporters cited statistics showing suicides account for 36% of firearm deaths among children ages 10-19 and that 66% of unintentional fatal shootings involving children occur when firearms are handled by someone else. Asm. Lunsford noted that 80% of gun owners support safe storage laws. Opponents, including Asm. Lemondes, raised Second Amendment concerns and questioned whether the law could impede self-defense during home invasions. Asm. Gallahan advocated for education over legislation. Francesco's mother and godmother attended the session. The bill passed with strong support from the Majority Conference.
A06576-B
PASSED
2025-06-10
Relating to prohibiting insurance companies from denying or increasing premiums on renter's insurance based on dog breed
The Assembly passed legislation extending to renters the same protections homeowners currently have against insurance discrimination based on dog breed. Sponsored by Assemblywoman Rosenthal, the bill prohibits insurance companies from denying renter's insurance coverage or increasing premiums solely because of a dog's breed. The measure sparked heated debate, with opponents arguing that certain breeds like pit bulls are statistically more likely to cause severe injuries and that insurers should be able to price in this risk. Proponents countered that breed-based determinations are unreliable and that individual dog temperament, training, and behavior should determine coverage. Rosenthal cited examples of pit bulls that saved lives, including one that alerted owners to a gas leak. The bill passed with the Majority Conference voting affirmatively, though the Minority Conference generally opposed it.
A06576-B
PASSED
2025-06-10
Relating to prohibiting insurance companies from denying or increasing premiums on renter's insurance based on dog breed
The Assembly passed legislation extending to renters the same insurance protections homeowners currently enjoy, prohibiting insurance companies from denying coverage or raising premiums based on dog breed. Sponsor Assemblywoman Rosenthal argued that individual dog temperament, training, and behavior—not breed—should determine insurability, citing American Veterinary Medical Association research and anecdotes of pit bulls performing heroic acts. Opponents including Assemblymen Blankenbush, A. Brown, and Gandolfo countered that pit bulls and similar breeds are statistically involved in the majority of severe dog bites and that insurance companies should be able to price in the damage potential of larger breeds to prevent costs from rising for other policyholders. The bill passed with a party-line vote, with the Majority Conference voting affirmatively and the Minority Conference generally voting negatively, though some members voted at their desks.
A02468
PASSED
2025-06-09
An act to amend the Public Service Law, in relation to creating the State Office of the Utility Consumer Advocate
The Assembly passed A02468, sponsored by Asm. Dinowitz, creating a State Office of the Utility Consumer Advocate to represent residential utility consumers before the Public Service Commission and in rate cases. The bill passed on a party-line vote, with the Republican Conference voting in opposition. Dinowitz argued the independent office would save ratepayers billions of dollars, citing experience in 40+ other states with similar agencies. Republicans, led by Asm. Palmesano and Ms. Walsh, contended the bill was duplicative of five existing state consumer protection entities and would not address the root cause of rising utility rates—state climate policies including the 2019 CLCPA. The Governor vetoed identical bills in 2019 and 2021, calling them redundant. The bill received an effective date of April 1.
A02468
PASSED
2025-06-09
An act to amend the Public Service Law, in relation to creating the State Office of the Utility Consumer Advocate
The Assembly passed A02468, sponsored by Asm. Dinowitz, establishing a State Office of the Utility Consumer Advocate to represent residential utility consumers before the Public Service Commission and in related proceedings. The bill passed on a party-line vote, with the Democratic majority supporting it and Republicans in opposition. Dinowitz argued the independent office would save ratepayers billions of dollars, citing experience in 40+ other states with similar agencies. Republicans, led by Asm. Palmesano and Ms. Walsh, contended the office was duplicative of five existing state consumer protection entities and would not address the root cause of rising utility rates—state climate policies including the 2019 CLCPA. The bill had been vetoed by the Governor in 2019 and 2021. Dinowitz expressed hope the Governor would sign it this time.
A01316 / S03072
2025-05-28
An act to amend the General Business Law, in relation to prohibiting the disclosure or use of a person's consumer credit history to an employer, labor organization, employment agency or agent thereof for purposes of employment decisions
Debate continued on A01316/S03072, sponsored by Assemblyman Dinowitz, which would prohibit employers from using consumer credit reports in employment decisions. Dinowitz argued that credit reports contain significant inaccuracies—citing approximately 25 percent error rates from prior Assembly hearings—and that no correlation exists between credit history and job performance. Assemblyman Mikulin challenged the bill's enforceability, questioning how violations would be detected if employers can still run credit reports. He also cited existing Federal Fair Credit Reporting Act protections and raised concerns about positions involving financial responsibility. Dinowitz noted the bill includes exceptions for positions required by law to use credit history, police officers, investigative agencies, bonded positions, and positions with access to trade secrets. Debate was ongoing at the end of this transcript segment.
A04346
PASSED
2025-05-27
An act to amend the Education Law, in relation to the administration of certain immunizations by a pharmacist or a certified nurse practitioner
A01450
PASSED
2025-05-27
An act to amend the Insurance Law, in relation to restricting insurers from demanding intrusive personal, financial and tax information from insureds as a standard practice in processing ordinary theft claims
The Assembly passed A01450, sponsored by Assemblyman Dinowitz, which restricts insurers from demanding personal, financial, and tax information during theft claim investigations unless they can demonstrate 'special articulable circumstances' directly related to suspected fraud. Dinowitz argued that insurers routinely request irrelevant information—such as voter registration records, business tax returns, and loan applications—as a harassment tactic to delay or deny valid claims. He contended the bill would streamline investigations and reduce costs by eliminating extraneous requests. Opponents including Assemblymen Gandolfo and Ra warned that restricting information access would hamper fraud detection, citing estimates that insurance fraud costs policyholders $400-$700 annually in increased premiums. They argued financial records can reveal organized theft rings and fraud patterns. Assemblyman Blankenbush voted against the bill, noting that financial stress is a primary driver of fraudulent claims and insurers need financial data to detect it. The bill passed with a party-line vote, with Republicans opposed and Democrats generally in favor.
A04346
PASSED
2025-05-27
An act to amend the Education Law, in relation to the administration of certain immunizations by a pharmacist or a certified nurse practitioner
A01450
PASSED
2025-05-27
An act to amend the Insurance Law, in relation to restricting insurers from demanding intrusive personal, financial and tax information from insureds as a standard practice in processing ordinary theft claims
The Assembly passed A01450, sponsored by Assemblyman Dinowitz, which restricts insurers from demanding personal, financial, and tax information during theft claim investigations unless they can demonstrate special articulable circumstances directly related to potential fraud. The bill prohibits requests for business tax returns, voter registration information, loan applications, and similar records as standard practice. Dinowitz argued that insurers use fraud investigations as a pretext to harass policyholders with irrelevant information requests, while opponents including Assemblymen Gandolfo and Ra contended that restricting information access would hamper fraud detection and ultimately increase premiums for all policyholders, citing estimates that insurance fraud costs $400-$700 per policyholder annually. Dinowitz countered that legitimate fraud investigations can still proceed when circumstances warrant, but insurers should not use fraud suspicion as a default justification. The bill passed with a party-line vote, with Republicans opposed and Democrats generally in favor, though some Democrats voted no.
A01450
2025-05-21
An act to amend the Insurance Law, in relation to restricting insurers from demanding intrusive personal, financial and tax information from insureds, as a standard practice in processing ordinary theft claims
A01441-A
PASSED
2025-05-14
An act to amend the Public Service Law, in relation to complaint handling procedures by the Public Service Commission
The Assembly passed A01441-A, sponsored by Asm. Dinowitz, requiring utilities to respond to consumer complaints in writing within 15 days (30 days for municipalities) after concluding investigations. The bill expands complaint procedures to cover residential and commercial customers for gas, electric, and steam utilities, and imposes penalties of $100 per day for utilities and $25 per day for municipalities for late responses. Dinowitz argued the bill addresses widespread constituent complaints about non-responsive utilities and that the administrative burden is minimal for large companies. Critics, including Ms. Walsh and Asm. Angelino, raised concerns about vague language defining when investigations conclude, potential duplicate penalties already imposed by the PSC, and worries that utilities might seek rate increases to cover compliance costs. The Minority Conference voted generally in the negative, though some members supported it. The bill received support from members citing daily constituent complaints about utilities.
A03875 / S03876
2025-04-30
An act to amend the General Business Law, in relation to requiring comparison of prices charged by energy services companies
A03875 / S03876
2025-04-30
An act to amend the General Business Law, in relation to requiring comparison of prices charged by energy services companies
Source: Official NY Assembly floor session transcripts (Granicus). AI-processed. Includes sessions from 2023 onward where transcripts are available.
Bill Focus Areas 2025–2026
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Grouped by law section from sponsored Assembly bills. Source: NYS Open Legislation API.
Lobbying Activity
No lobbying disclosures on record for this member in the available dataset (JCOPE filings targeting Assembly members).
Source: NY Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government via data.ny.gov.