Asm. Brian Cunningham

Enacts the "Excelsior Opportunity Accounts Act"; establishes a special fund for EO accounts within the department of financial services for certain eligible individuals born after December 31, 2027, who reside in the state, are under age 18, with household income not exceeding 700% of the poverty level; provides for contribution and investment of monies of fund.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new civil lawsuit pathway for individuals whose constitutional or federal rights were violated by government actors (such as police, courts, or public officials). It allows victims to sue for damages and court-ordered remedies, removes common defenses like "I thought it was legal," and requires courts to award attorney fees to winning plaintiffs - even if the case settles without a formal judgment. Public entities (like cities or state agencies) must cover their employees' legal costs if sued under this law, and lawsuits must be filed within three years of the violation. It directly affects people harmed by government overreach, ensuring they have a clear legal route to seek redress for rights violations.

Establishes safety requirements for operators who use bicycles with electric assist for commercial purposes and the businesses that employ such operators.

Relates to creating the Brooklyn health care commission which shall be charged with examining the system of general hospitals, nursing homes, ambulatory and primary care facilities, and medical school facilities in Kings county and recommending changes to that system.

Mandates the use of advanced safety technology in vehicles in the state; requires the commissioner of motor vehicles to promulgate certain rules and regulations.

Grants provisional MWBE certification status for one year for applicants who do not receive a determination approving or denying their application for MWBE certification within ninety days of applying.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a "Gate Money Program" providing eligible individuals released from New York State correctional facilities with monthly cash payments. Specifically, those who served at least six months in state prison and haven't received prior payments get $425 per month for up to six months (capped at $2,550 total), adjusted annually for inflation. Payments are made immediately upon release (cash/check) and then monthly by community supervision agencies, with funds not counting toward public assistance eligibility. The program is funded by a $25 million appropriation into a dedicated "gate money fund" and excludes individuals released to other states or federal custody.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits the sale of most cannabinoid hemp products where the ratio of CBD to THC is below 15:1. It excludes flower and topical products from this requirement. If CBD is not the primary cannabinoid, the combined ratio of other cannabinoids (excluding THC) to THC must still meet or exceed 15:1. The law applies to sellers of these products and takes effect immediately.

Maddy summaryThis bill (A 2187) requires new affordable housing programs in New York City to use the lower of two area median income (AMI) calculations: either the zip code-specific AMI or the broader regional AMI for the program's location. It directly affects developers and housing providers initiating new affordable housing projects after the bill's effective date. The key provision mandates that the program must adopt whichever AMI figure (zip code or regional) results in a lower income threshold, potentially expanding eligibility for affordable housing. This change applies only to new programs, not existing ones, and takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Permits a redetermination of a tax abatement for rent-controlled and rent regulated property occupied by senior citizens or persons with disabilities upon a permanent decrease in income.