Asm. Angelo Santabarbara

Maddy summaryThis bill changes how New York State funds pre-kindergarten programs outside New York City. It repeals the previous requirement for competitive selection of programs and instead guarantees funding sufficient to cover all qualifying programs in non-NYC regions. The key change ensures that every eligible pre-K program in these areas receives full funding based on need, rather than competing for limited slots. The bill also maintains the $300 million annual allocation specifically for New York City programs.

Maddy summaryThis bill (A 3538) requires health insurers and health maintenance organizations in New York to provide newly diagnosed Alzheimer's patients with written informational resources within 60 days of learning about the diagnosis. It directly affects insureds and enrollees recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, mandating that insurers send evidence-based materials about the disease and contact information for specialized support organizations like the Alzheimer's Association. The resources must be culturally and linguistically appropriate, developed by medical and disability experts, and delivered via mail (or electronically if consented to). The law takes immediate effect upon enactment.

Amends the definition of "developmental disability" to include an inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of the disability.

Authorizes the issuance of "Blue Star Mother" and "Blue Star Family" distinctive license plates for parents and family members of active duty service members; establishes the "blue star mothers and families support fund".

Increases the amount of money a public retirement system retiree may earn in a position of public service in the year 2025 and thereafter to $100,000.

Requires stretch limousines to be retired from use after ten years from manufacture or the accumulation of three hundred fifty thousand miles, whichever comes first.

Allows county correctional facilities to use the profits from commissaries or canteens within the facilities for the general purposes of the institution.

Requires contractors receiving public funds to pay amounts owed to small businesses and minority-owned business enterprises within 10 days of receipt of an undisputed invoice generated by a small business, minority-owned business enterprise or vendor management service and managed service provider on behalf of the small business or minority-owned business enterprise.

Authorizes equitable tip pooling structures for counter service restaurants that pay all employees at or above minimum wage; authorizes tip pooling for service and non-service employees.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires election commissioners and key staff at county election boards to complete mandatory training. New commissioners must finish a 30-hour initial course within six months of appointment, while all staff must complete a 3-hour annual refresher by June 1 each year. The state board of elections will develop the curriculum and provide training, including web-based options. Failure to complete training results in the state board notifying the county legislature, city council, and local party chair.