Asm. Joe DeStefano

Directs the commissioner of transportation, in consultation with the commissioner of the office for people with developmental disabilities, to conduct a statewide study and review of the transportation of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Enacts the solar for schools act which provides grants for eligible school districts to purchase and install solar and geothermal power sources; defines terms; directs the New York state energy and research development authority to establish such grant program; provides for the repeal of such provisions upon the expiration thereof; makes an appropriation therefor.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits state agencies from moving leftover money from funds that collect dedicated fees (like tolls or permit fees) into other general funds. It requires these dedicated funds to stay separate from other state money and be used only for their specific purpose, preventing commingling or reallocation. The law directly affects state financial management by restricting how unspent revenue from targeted fee sources can be handled. This is a procedural change to state finance rules, not a new policy affecting citizens or programs. (3 sentences)

Authorizes electronic court appearances for criminal matters, excluding jury trials, in all counties in the state; authorizes electronic appearances for criminal matters where the court determines a personal appearance would be impractical, unsafe or excessively burdensome; authorizes sentencing to a period of incarceration to be conducted via electronic appearance for defendants who are already incarcerated.

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.

Prohibits employers from retaliating against employees for confronting an individual to prevent a theft or the unlawful taking of goods, wares, or merchandise; does not prohibit employers from training or re-training employees on policies against confrontation of theft.

Provides for a personal income tax deduction for school supplies paid for out-of-pocket by K-12 teachers in public and nonpublic schools, up to $500 per year.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires all New York schools to integrate instruction on preventing co-occurring disorders - such as mental health issues combined with substance misuse (alcohol, tobacco, or drugs) - into their standard health education curriculum. The instruction must be tailored to students' grade levels, focusing on promoting mental wellness, healthy decision-making, and understanding pathways to addiction. Schools must develop this content with input from existing advisory councils on youth substance abuse and suicide prevention. The law takes effect July 1, 2025, applying to all public and private schools offering health education.

Prohibits the enactment of unfunded mandates for a period of three years; instructs the state comptroller to conduct a report on the annual fiscal impact enacted state legislation has on the revenues and expenses of local municipalities.

Provides for the revocation of a person's driver's license who has been convicted of operating a vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.