Asm. John McDonald

Provides that the transfer of certain state lands to KIPP: Albany Community Public Charter Schools shall be made after the submission of the application to the office of general services for such transfer, and prior to the expiration of provisions authorizing such transfer; extends the effectiveness of certain provisions relating thereto.

Reforms the education requirements for persons who want to become certified public accountants; provides alternative pathways to being certified as certified public accountants.

Maddy summaryThis bill (A2311) prohibits local health offices from charging fees when issuing certificates for stillbirths or fetal deaths. It directly affects parents or families seeking official documentation for pregnancy losses. The law amends public health regulations to remove all fees for these specific certificates, replacing previous fee structures. The bill passed both legislative chambers in 2025 and was signed into law on November 21, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates the state of New York as a "purple heart state" to honor combat veterans for their service and sacrifice. It directly affects the state's official branding and public recognition of veterans, with no new programs or funding. The key provision adds a new section to state law stating New York is a "purple heart state," which would be reflected in state communications, signage, or official materials. The designation is purely symbolic, with no concrete policy changes or obligations for veterans' benefits. (Note: As a commemorative resolution, this summary is concise per procedural bill guidelines.)

Maddy summaryThis bill adds a new option for New York residents to register for the Donate Life Registry (which facilitates organ, eye, and tissue donations) through mandatory electronic personal income tax filings. It requires the state to include a clear checkbox on tax forms asking, "Would you like to be added to the Donate Life Registry? Check box for 'yes' or 'skip this question'." This expands existing registration methods - which include driver's license applications, health insurance enrollment, and college financial aid forms - to include tax filings for those required to file electronically. The change applies to all taxpayers submitting income tax documents via electronic means, making organ donation registration more accessible during routine state interactions.

Maddy summaryThis bill (A 7321) would require New York health insurers to cover speech therapy for stuttering when recommended by a physician. It applies to all medical, major medical, and similar insurance plans, eliminating limits on the number of therapy sessions or visits. Coverage must be provided by licensed professionals and clarifies that school-based therapy (like IEPs) does not affect medical coverage for therapy outside educational settings. The bill was vetoed by the governor in October 2025 and did not become law.

Provides parity to durable medical equipment providers by requiring Medicaid managed care organizations to reimburse such providers at no less than one hundred percent of the medical assistance durable medical equipment and complex rehabilitation technology fee schedule for the same service or item.

Relates to hotel and motel taxes in Saratoga county and the city of Saratoga Springs; increases the allowable amount of tax imposed by the county; removes exemptions for properties having less than 4 units; relates to the disposition of tax revenues collected; eliminates an advisory committee.

Maddy summaryThis bill removes a New York state law that previously prohibited transplant patients from being listed on waiting lists at multiple organ procurement organizations. It directly affects patients awaiting organ transplants who may now be eligible for placement on waiting lists at different facilities within New York. The key change eliminates the specific ban (previously in Public Health Law §4363) that prevented patients from having multiple listings simultaneously. This amendment updates organ allocation rules to allow patients to potentially access multiple transplant programs without violating state policy. The law took effect immediately upon signing on October 16, 2025.

Requires state agencies to measure, collect, report, and utilize metrics relating to the experience of residents interacting with agencies to improve provision of services to the people of the state, and to provide a biannual report to the governor and legislature.