Asm. Billy Jones

Maddy summaryThis bill directs the state education commissioner to rename the current high school equivalency diploma to the "Excelsior high school diploma." The legislation requires the commissioner to create and update the necessary rules and regulations to implement this name change. Once passed, the new name will officially apply to the diploma issued to adults who pass the state's equivalency exam. The law will take effect approximately 90 days after it is signed into law.

Maddy summaryThis bill, known as the Veteran Family Educational Attainment Act, allows New York State veterans who have unused tuition award benefits to transfer those funds to a spouse, child, or survivor. To qualify for the transfer, the veteran must have served at least ten years, unless they were discharged due to death, medical issues, hardship, or involuntary separation. The recipient must be a resident of the state and, if a child, must be under twenty-six years old. The legislation also defines specific terms for eligible family members and survivors, including conditions under which a spouse or child qualifies for the benefit.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires state, county, and local transportation projects to prioritize safe access for all road users, including drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit riders. It mandates that agencies using complete street design principles consider these needs during the planning, design, and construction of new or rebuilt roads, while also applying these standards to maintenance projects lasting at least ten years. Additionally, the legislation updates the criteria for determining when a road project is unnecessary, adding community support as a key factor alongside traffic volume and land use. The law will not apply to projects approved before it becomes effective and will take effect approximately 260 days after passage.

Establishes the "recovery ready workplace act" which provides for the certification of an employer to become a recovery ready workplace; defines terms; establishes the recovery-ready workplace program; provides criteria for employers to obtain certification as a recovery ready workplace; provides for employee involvement.

Enacts the "cellular mapping act"; requires the public service commission to review cellular services within the state; requires the expansion of cellular services.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires state agencies to consider giving historical status to certain lands and buildings within the forest preserve. Specifically, any areas listed on or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places must be evaluated for an historical classification when creating management plans. The decision to classify these sites will be made in consultation with the Department of Environmental Conservation. Once passed, this change takes effect immediately to guide how these specific historic sites are managed.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates New York as a "purple heart state," a symbolic title with no direct impact on laws or government operations. The legislation adds a single line to the state statutes to include this designation, which takes effect on January 1st of the following year. Because the change is purely commemorative and does not alter existing policies or affect specific groups, it serves as an honorary recognition rather than a functional policy update.

Provides for the licensure of school psychology practitioners; authorizes the use of the title "licensed school psychology practitioner" to licensed or exempt individuals; defines practice of licensed school psychology practitioners; sets forth requirements for professional licensure (including educational attainment, experience, exam and fee); provides for issuance of limited permits under specified circumstances; identifies exempt persons.

Directs the division of criminal justice services to establish a program for the care of retired law enforcement dogs which shall cover the cost of veterinary care for retired law enforcement dogs for the remainder of the lifetime of such dogs.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires that any event hosted by the state or held on state property serving alcohol must also include locally produced beer, wine, and spirits. It applies to all state agencies, the legislature, the judiciary, and events taking place in state-owned buildings, leased facilities, or state parks and historic sites. The law mandates that the relevant state officials ensure these local alcohol options are procured and served alongside other beverages at such gatherings. The changes will not take effect until one year after the bill becomes law.