Technology

Implements transparency requirements for developers of AI models; requires the establishment of an office for oversite of AI model developer transparency and reporting; makes related provisions.

This bill amends New York's General Business Law to clarify the Attorney General's authority to combat unfair business practices. It replaces repealed sections with updated definitions (e.g., "unfair" practices cause significant harm not easily avoidable, aligning with federal standards), requires the Attorney General to provide 10 days' written notice before lawsuits, and expands consumer rights to sue for actual damages or $50 (plus potential triple damages for intentional violations). It directly affects businesses operating in New York and consumers facing deceptive practices. The changes streamline enforcement while strengthening legal options for affected individuals.

Requires state agencies to make available all public documents in a digital format on their website in a manner that allows such documents to be printed; provides that no document required by law to remain confidential shall be deemed a public document.

This bill requires New York's Office of Mental Health to create rules for releasing patient records after a person's death. It allows family members, legal representatives, or healthcare providers involved in the person's care to access these records upon written request, while respecting any prior expressed wishes of the deceased. The rules must follow federal privacy laws (HIPAA) and define "family member" for treatment-related requests. It applies directly to families of deceased residents in mental health facilities and the Office of Mental Health, overriding some existing privacy restrictions. The bill does not change current rules for living patients' records.

Bill A 4944 prohibits individuals from operating uncrewed aircraft, such as drones, over school grounds or specific critical infrastructure facilities in New York. It bans drones from hovering or remaining above these areas at altitudes below 250 feet, or from making contact with anything within their boundaries. Critical infrastructure includes fenced or clearly marked facilities like power plants, refineries, and water treatment plants. Exceptions apply to government agencies, law enforcement, or those with prior written consent, as well as drones continuously flying through at 250 feet or higher. Violations can result in misdemeanor charges.