Asm. Alicia Hyndman

Prohibits police officers from using bias-based profiling; requires that a procedure be established for the taking and review of complaints against police officers for bias-based profiling; allows an action for injunctive relief and/or damages to be brought against a law enforcement agency, any agent of a law enforcement agency and the supervisor of an agent.

Prohibits the higher education services corporation from seeking recovery of awards made in error during certain academic years due to administrative error.

Establishes a discount fare rate of no less than 25% for full-time undergraduate students attending an accredited college who utilize the New York city transit system, including railroad, subway and/or omnibus services.

Maddy summaryThis bill (A 2444) exempts toothpaste, toothbrushes, and dental floss from state sales tax. It directly affects consumers who purchase these specific oral hygiene products, as they would no longer pay sales tax on them. The law adds these items to the existing list of tax-exempt products under the tax code. The exemption would take effect 90 days after the bill becomes law.

Maddy summaryThis New York state bill creates a work opportunity tax credit for employers hiring New York residents in targeted groups (such as veterans or long-term unemployed individuals, as defined by federal law). Employers can claim a 100% credit against state tax for qualified wages paid to these employees, capped at $500 per employee annually. The total credit is limited to $90 million across all taxpayers, with the program expiring December 31, 2028. It applies to wages paid after April 1, 2026, and cannot overlap with other state tax credits for the same wages.

Authorizes the governor and lieutenant-governor, commissioner of general services, secretary of state, comptroller, attorney general, and members of the legislature, provided that such request does not impact upon the department's ability to manage its facilities as determined by the director of the facility, to visit any facility designated by the commissioner of mental health for care and treatment.

Enhances the fitness and safety requirements for certain licensed individuals; establishes the "New York state task force on the effects of aging on driving ability".

Maddy summaryThis bill increases civil penalties for test agencies that violate education law regarding standardized testing. Specifically, it raises the maximum penalty per violation from $1,000 to $2,000 for agencies failing to comply with testing regulations. The change applies directly to organizations administering standardized tests, such as those used in schools or licensing. The amendment modifies Section 347 of the education law and was recently referred to the Higher Education committee.

Directs the metropolitan transportation authority to provide safety briefings to passengers aboard Metro-North trains, and train personnel in safety procedures.

Enacts the "making equitable and alternative lunches (MEAL) act"; requires a public school to offer a plant-based food option, a halal food option and a kosher food option as an alternative to every meal or snack offered in food service to any student who chooses such alternative meal or snack as an option.