Has New York learnt anything from Hurricane Sandy?

They aren't smart enough.

they'll be back to their old habits in a few months when we bail them out.

There is no flood insurance. The insurance companies don't sell it. It is the taxpayers, through their federal income taxes that will have to support the emergency relief and rebuilding efforts. It's controversial, as to whether taxpayers should continue to cover the costs of rebuilding for people who own homes so close to the ocean. That's one of the reasons Ireland is so beautiful. Her coastlines are publicly owned.

cut off home insurance for houses located in the surefire path of hurricane waters, maybe?

Where is the federal help?