Asm. John McDonald

Maddy summaryThis bill (A 9571) increases family leave benefits under New York's workers' compensation law, directly affecting eligible employees taking leave for medical care, bonding with a newborn, or military family exigencies. It gradually raises weekly benefit percentages (from 50% to 67% of average weekly wage) and extends maximum leave duration (from 8 to 12 weeks) over time, with specific phased-in dates starting in 2018. Covered employers must provide these enhanced benefits while maintaining health insurance coverage during leave. The changes apply to employees meeting eligibility criteria under the law, with the Superintendent of Financial Services retaining limited authority to delay increases.

Authorizes shelters for victims of domestic violence to be reimbursed for any payment differential for housing a single individual in a room intended for double occupancy where a single occupancy room is not available.

Dedicates the bridge located on Interstate 90, designated as Bridge Number 1092839, which crosses over the Hudson River in the cities of Albany and Rensselaer to Sgt Henry Johnson.

Enacts the "ratepayer transparency act" which requires bills utilized by public and private gas corporations, electric corporations and gas and electric corporations in levying charges for service to include separate categories for certain charges.

Requires mobile sports wagering operators when providing information regarding compulsive play, all links and referrals for counseling, therapy or treatment services shall direct account holders to the problem gambling services webpage maintained by the office of addiction services and supports.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs the commissioner of agriculture and markets to conduct a study on vertical farming within one year of its effective date. The study will examine how vertical farms affect access to locally grown food, job creation, educational opportunities, and environmental impacts. After completing the research, the commissioner must submit a report with recommendations to state leaders including the governor and legislative leaders. The bill does not authorize any new programs or funding but establishes a research requirement to inform future policy decisions.

Directs the commissioner of health shall promulgate regulations allowing for any electronic health records integration vendor to obtain state approval to facilitate interoperability between the prescription monitoring program registry and certified electronic health records systems that can connect with any national data sharing hub.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes new requirements for individuals seeking the title "certified interior designer" in New York. To qualify, applicants must complete seven years of professional training (including 2-5 years of approved post-secondary education), pass a national certification exam, and pass a state-specific fire and safety codes exam, with a $135 initial license fee. It allows exemptions for those holding valid out-of-state licenses or who have documented seven years of practice without formal education. The bill amends Education Law Section 8305 to implement these standards.

Prohibits the imposition of a charge or deduction from a payment due to a health care provider because such payment is made through electronic or paper means.

Requires proof of installation, maintenance and regular use of ignition interlock devices when use of such a device is ordered by a court; extends the period of suspension and revocation of a license until such proof is provided.