The new law, which takes effect immediately, prohibits companies from determining premiums or denying insurance "based on an individual's intent to travel abroad, unless the decision is based on sound actuarial principles."

Similar legislation already exists in California, Connecticut, Colorado, Illinois, Maryland, New York and Washington, according to Assembly man Neil M.Cohen (D-Union), who sponsored the bill.

"A person's legitimate travel lifestyle must never be exploited by insurance companies as a new avenue for financial gains," Cohen said. "At the end of the day, the ability to travel abroad should never be held in check by the ability to maintain a life insurance policy."

By Scott Goldstein