Asm. John Mikulin

Enacts the "responsible implementation of e-bike regulations for safe cycling (RIDERS) act; defines "electric skateboard" and "electric personal mobility device"; requires the registration of all electric personal mobility devices, including, but not limited to, bicycles with electric assist, electric scooters and electric skateboards; makes related provisions.

Authorizes school districts to submit an opt-out waiver to the commissioner of education authorizing such districts to opt-out of certain zero-emission school bus requirements.

Provides that a person convicted of murder in the first or second degree, or aggravated murder, in the death of a minor shall be sentenced to life imprisonment without parole.

Maddy summaryBill A 8261 prohibits administrative agencies from making COVID-19 immunization mandatory or requiring proof of vaccination for individuals in the state. It specifies that no person can be required to receive the COVID-19 immunization unless the state legislature enacts such a mandate. This includes provisions for children and incapacitated persons, requiring parental or guardian consent in the absence of a legislative mandate. The bill also prevents administrative agencies from requiring immunization for school attendance, employment, travel, access to government services, or residency in group homes.

Requires a government photo identification card to be presented when casting a ballot; provides for a method to receive a government photo identification card at no charge; provides that notaries are not permitted to collect a fee for collecting the documents required.

Requires municipal corporations to approve any facility intending to house asylum seekers prior to their establishment; establishes a review process that incorporates notice to the public and the opportunity for the public to comment; renders a decision within 8 weeks.

Maddy summaryBill A 160 prohibits registered sex offenders from entering, being within 500 feet of, or being located in any state park or municipal-owned park. This law directly affects individuals required to register under the state’s sex offender registry by restricting their access to public park spaces. The key provision creates a 500-foot buffer zone around all state and locally owned parks, preventing registered sex offenders from being present within that radius. The bill was referred to the Correction committee on January 8, 2025, and is pending further legislative action.

Relates to a tuition tax credit; increases the amount of an allowable deduction (Part A); reduces income by the amount of interest paid for student loans (Part B).

Enacts "the combating campus antisemitism act"; prohibits the granting of tuition assistance awards to any student who has knowingly engaged in promoting antisemitism in a manner that is directed to inciting or producing imminent lawless action and is likely to incite or produce such action, that constitutes "true threats"; makes related provisions.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates March 21st each year as "Down Syndrome Awareness Day" in New York State. It adds this date to the state's official calendar of commemorative days, which already includes other observances like Holocaust Remembrance Day and Juneteenth. The bill does not create new policies or funding; it simply establishes a formal recognition day to raise awareness about Down syndrome. This designation affects all New York state entities and residents, encouraging official observances and educational efforts on that date.