Asm. Billy Jones

Maddy summaryThis New York State bill (A 585) repeals Title 2 of Article 14 of the Election Law, which governed public financing for elections. The repeal removes the legal framework for public funding of candidate campaigns, directly affecting how political campaigns are financed in the state. The bill takes effect immediately upon enactment, eliminating the existing public financing system without creating new provisions. It is a procedural change that removes specific election law provisions without altering other campaign finance rules.

Authorizes the empire state development corporation to develop a public awareness campaign promoting businesses located in New York state with an emphasis on small businesses and the need to shop in downtown local areas; requires the creation of the Buy New York Online Networking Directory to connect purchasers with businesses located in New York.

Establishes the New York state equine industry board, to advise and make recommendations to the state agencies on state government plans, policies and programs affecting all aspects of equine industry, and in such areas as its experience and studies may indicate to be appropriate.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the New York Ireland Trade Commission within the Department of State to strengthen economic ties between New York and Ireland. The commission, composed of 15 members (including Senate/Assembly appointees and governor-appointed members with specific representation from Irish American communities, higher education, and business), will focus on advancing bilateral trade, investment, and academic exchanges. It requires the commission to report annually to the governor and legislature with findings and recommendations, but does not create new taxes, regulations, or direct financial obligations. The bill is procedural in nature, creating a body to facilitate existing trade relationships rather than implementing new policy.

Exempts farmers from commercial driver's license (CDL) requirements when operating a covered farm vehicle within one hundred fifty miles of such farmer's farm.

Prohibits the diminution of health insurance benefits of public employee retirees and their dependents or reducing the employer's contributions for such insurance; defines employers to include the state, municipalities, school districts, and public authorities and commissions.

Directs the issuance of special number and distinctive license plates for military service members and members of veterans organizations without payment of service charges or renewal fees.

Maddy summaryThis bill increases the state income tax credit available to active volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers. Starting January 1, 2027, the credit for eligible resident taxpayers will increase from $200 to $1,200 per year. To qualify, individuals must have served actively for the entire taxable year. For two qualifying spouses filing a joint return, the credit amount will be $2,400, and any excess credit over the tax owed will be refunded.

Enacts "Chelsey's law"; provides that a person commits the crime of manslaughter or aggravated manslaughter when such person knows or has reasonable grounds to know that a controlled substance is likely to cause the death of another person and sells, administers, delivers, or causes the delivery of a controlled substance to another person and such substance causes, contributes to, or aids in the death of such other person.

Requires the district attorney to notify victims by letter of the final disposition of the case within sixty days of such disposition in cases where such final disposition includes a conviction; provides such letter shall also notify victims of their right to make a victim impact statement; allows them to personally appear at parole hearings and make such a statement.