Asm. Andrew Hevesi

Relates to the sale and possession of self-defense spray devices in the state; removes the requirement that only authorized dealers and pharmacists could sell such devices; provides that no more than two self-defense spray devices may be sold at any one time to a single purchaser; repeals certain provisions of law relating thereto.

Requires commissioners of local social services districts to screen, apply for, and use and conserve retirement, survivors and disability insurance, supplemental security income, veterans' or any other federal social security benefits on behalf of certain children; provides for responsibilities of local commissioners of social services appointed to serve as the representative payee for a child; provides for technical assistance and financial literacy for certain children; makes related provisions.

Directs the department of social services to establish an outdoor, nature-based child care pilot project to explore establishing licensing guidelines for the operation of outdoor, nature-based child care programs in an outdoor space and that employ a nature-based early learning curriculum to teach enrolled children.

Requires screening incarcerated individuals for eligibility for public benefits prior to release and assistance in applying for such programs; requires officials to seek waivers from the USDA for eligibility for such program.

Permits telemedicine services for mental and behavioral health issues under the workers' compensation system; permits one in-person visit within twelve months unless such in-person visit causes undue hardship on a patient.

Requires law enforcement officers to conduct a lethality assessment as part of the standardized domestic incident report form when responding to incidents of domestic violence.

Amends provisions of law governing arbitration proceedings; specifies fees and expenses with regard to employment or consumer arbitration proceedings; directs certain sanctions on a party which breaches an arbitration agreement.

Closes the patron exclusion in the definition of advancing prostitution; expands the definition of patronizing a person for prostitution to include anything of value.

Maddy summaryThis bill prevents non-criminal arrests (such as for debt collection) from occurring when people are going to, at, or returning from a polling place, unless a judge has issued a warrant. It requires law enforcement to show a warrant to polling place staff and obtain court approval for any arrest near polling places, except in emergencies. Voters who face illegal arrests can sue for damages and legal fees, and the law mandates reporting of all warrants to prevent voting interference. The measure aims to protect voting rights by ensuring people can exercise their right to vote without fear of detention for civil matters.

Prohibits the purchase of ammunition if such purchaser failed a background check, is prohibited by federal law or is subject to a temporary or extreme risk protection order issued pursuant to article sixty-three-A of the civil practice law and rules.