Asm. John McDonald

Provides that certain communications made without malice regarding an incident of sexual assault, harassment or discrimination shall be deemed privileged; provides that a prevailing defendant in an action brought against such defendant for making a communication that is privileged shall be entitled to attorney's fees and costs for such defense.

Defines the practice of certified registered nurse anesthetist; requires collaboration with a licensed physician qualified to determine the need for anesthesia services; requires licensing; defines qualifications.

Maddy summaryThis bill restricts the location of new cannabis retail stores and on-site consumption facilities. It prohibits new licenses for storefronts within 500 feet of school grounds (including all entrances/exits in mixed-use buildings) and within 200 feet of houses of worship (including all entrances/exits in mixed-use buildings). These rules apply only to new licenses issued after the bill's effective date. The law directly affects cannabis businesses seeking to open new locations in the state.

Permits midwives and physician assistants to certify the cause of death on a fetal death certificate if they are in attendance at or after a fetal death.

Prohibits broad indemnification by a design professional of a state or local agency or political subdivision involving public work for contracts except to the extent that damages were caused by or the proximate result of the negligence, recklessness, or willful misconduct of the design professional.

Prohibits mobile sports wagering operators from enabling or otherwise permitting authorized sports bettors to deposit or withdraw funds to or from their account through gift certificates, open loop gift certificates, or e-wallets.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a legal framework for the medical use of psilocybin (a psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms) in New York. It creates a grant program to fund psilocybin-assisted therapy for veterans, first responders, retired first responders, and low-income individuals, administered through the state health department. The law defines key terms, requires certification for healthcare providers offering therapy, and protects patients and practitioners from legal penalties for compliant medical use under state law. It also mandates biennial reports on the program's implementation and establishes regulations for safe clinical administration.

Establishes a three-year pilot program to be known as the "learner engagement and attendance program of New York (LEAP-NY)" in certain school districts of the state.

Authorizes the application of topical fluoride varnish to a child's teeth by a parent or legal guardian provided that such application is done under the direction and supervision of a licensed practitioner.

Includes temporary child care employment agencies and child care educational and training institutions as providers authorized to conduct background clearances.