Asm. Aileen Gunther

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits the use of fuel oil, grade number four, in any building or facility within the state starting July 1, 2028. The law aims to reduce emissions by banning this specific type of heating fuel, though it allows local governments to pass stricter rules if they choose. The ban applies to all structures across the state, but the legislation does not specify alternative energy sources that must be used instead.

Enacts the monarch preservation plan requiring the department of environmental conservation to take feasible actions to conserve monarch butterflies and the unique habitats they depend upon for successful migration.

Relates to requiring coverage for volunteer firefighters for full cancer screenings upon entry of service to a fire department or fire company and annually thereafter; provides that the costs of such screenings shall be covered by the state.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs the state Department of Health to conduct a comprehensive study on how to better integrate doulas into hospitals and birthing centers across New York. The study will evaluate current practices by gathering data on existing doula programs, identifying facilities that are already doula-friendly, and reviewing successful initiatives both within the state and elsewhere. Additionally, the report must provide specific recommendations on best practices for creating doula-friendly spaces, including criteria for visitor status, presence in birthing rooms, and data collection methods. The final findings and suggestions are required to be submitted to state leaders by December 31, 2025, to inform future policies supporting maternal health care.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes specific limits on interest rates charged on overdue property taxes for residential real estate. Starting in the 2025 fiscal year, the interest rate for these payments cannot be higher than the prime interest rate set by the commissioner, nor can it fall below 2% or rise above 16%. These caps apply to condominiums and cooperatives, while vacant and abandoned properties listed on a state registry remain exempt from these restrictions. The law overrides any local rules that previously set interest rates above the new 16% maximum.

Relates to prevailing wage requirements applicable to brownfield remediation work performed under private contract as it relates to certain remediation activities, for sites that are seeking or have received a determination that the site is eligible for the tangible property credit component of the brownfield redevelopment tax credit, and the work is paid for in whole or in part by public funds.

Prohibits conflicts of interest among board of elections employees; prevents a board of elections employee from remaining on the board of elections payroll while also a candidate for an office who has an election overseen by the board at which they are employed; allows for a member to remain on the board until 90 days before the general election if there is no primary for such office.

Establishes the biometric privacy act; requires private entities in possession of biometric identifiers or biometric information to develop a written policy establishing a retention schedule and guidelines for permanently destroying biometric identifiers and biometric information when the initial purpose for collecting or obtaining such identifiers or information has been satisfied or within three years of the individual's last interaction with the private entity, whichever occurs first.

Provides that a student enrolled in an individualized education program during certain school years may continue to receive educational services until the student completes the services pursuant to the individualized education program or the end of the school year during which the student turns twenty-two years old, whichever is sooner.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a financial incentive for physicians and licensed midwives in New York to complete specialized training on risk management strategies in obstetrics and midwifery. By finishing an approved course that covers evidence-based guidelines on topics like reducing unnecessary cesarean sections and managing pregnancy complications, eligible medical professionals can receive a premium reduction on their medical malpractice insurance. The program is designed to improve patient safety and birth outcomes by encouraging doctors and midwives to stay updated on clinical best practices, with the insurance commissioner and financial services superintendent working together to set the rules for the discount.