Asm. Catalina Cruz

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a licensing system for genetic counselors and creates a State Board for Genetic Counseling. To practice, genetic counselors must obtain a license by meeting requirements including a master's degree in genetic counseling, passing an exam, and having relevant experience. The law defines genetic counseling as providing information about genetic risks and testing but explicitly prohibits counselors from diagnosing conditions, prescribing medication, or performing medical procedures. The State Board, composed of five licensed genetic counselors, one physician, and one public representative, will oversee licensing, professional conduct, and set standards for the profession.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the "abortion access fund" to support individuals seeking abortion services. It allows New York taxpayers to voluntarily contribute to the fund via their state income tax returns starting in 2027 (without reducing their tax liability), with the tax form including a dedicated line for this purpose. Funds will be used to cover financial and logistical barriers for abortion access, supporting nonprofits providing services like medical care and transportation. The bill includes strong privacy protections, prohibiting the state from requiring nonprofits to share personally identifying information about patients or staff. The comptroller must annually report on fund usage, including disbursement details and financial plans.

Secures the continued validity of collective bargaining agreements during and after a change in operator or ownership of a property, facility, or company.

Authorizes holders of certain licenses issued by the state liquor authority to engage in the sale or wholesale of ready-to-drink cocktails; corrects certain provisions regarding sale of mead and cider.

Prohibits the keeping of inventory, storage, warehouse, processing, packaging, shipping or distributing of flavored vapor products near where vapor or tobacco products are sold at retail or wholesale.

Prohibits the appointment of certain state, municipal or agency employees as impartial hearing officers to hear appeals of determinations regarding children with handicapping conditions.

Establishes the nail salon minimum standards council act; establishes the nail salon minimum standards council which shall investigate wages and standards within the nail salon industry and submit recommendations on minimum wages, regulations and standards for nail salon workers.

Protects the rights of people in prisons, jails and forensic facilities; limits the use of cell or segregated confinement; grants access to tablets, visitation, and certain items.

Prohibits local, state and federal law enforcement officers from wearing any mask or personal disguise while interacting with the public in the performance of their duties; excludes certain protective masks.

Prohibits peremptory challenges of prospective jurors based on race, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, gender identity or expression, religion, religious practice, age, disability, or sexual orientation.