Asm. Jo Anne Simon

Establishes the biometric identifier privacy act; requires private entities in possession of biometric identifiers or biometric information to develop a written policy establishing a retention schedule and guidelines for permanently destroying biometric identifiers and biometric information when the initial purpose for collecting or obtaining such identifiers or information has been satisfied or within three years of the individual's last interaction with the private entity, whichever occurs first.

Relates to the imposition of sales and compensating use taxes with respect to certain aircraft; repeals provisions relating to the exemption from sales and compensating use taxes of general aviation aircraft, and machinery or equipment to be installed on such aircraft.

Provides that the court shall not reduce jury awards as excessive in employment discrimination actions unless the court finds exceptional circumstances which compel the conclusion that the jury was influenced by partiality, prejudice, mistake or corruption or that remittitur or additur is necessary to avoid a complete miscarriage of justice.

Requires the New York state bridge authority, the Thousand Islands bridge authority, the Nassau county bridge authority, the Ogdensburg bridge authority, and the New York state thruway authority to develop a feasibility study to promote bicycle and pedestrian access on bridges and provide a report to the governor, temporary president of the senate, speaker of the assembly, and the public a copy of such plan.

Relates to the convening of a human services employee wage board; requires the commissioner of labor to convene a human services employee wage board comprised of twelve members; requires the wage board to hold hearings and report and make recommendations to the governor and legislature no later than December 31, 2027.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a regulated program to allow the medical use of psilocybin, a compound found in certain mushrooms, for treating specific health conditions. It directly affects qualified patients diagnosed with issues like treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, or substance use disorders, as well as licensed healthcare providers and designated caregivers. Under the act, the state would establish rules for licensing producers, setting safety standards, and requiring that patients receive psilocybin in a controlled, supervised setting. The legislation also provides legal protection from criminal penalties for the possession and use of psilocybin when obtained through this new medical framework.

Requires school districts to conduct mandatory early screening for dyslexia for all children commencing in pre-kindergarten or kindergarten and continuing thereafter on an annual basis until each child successfully completes second grade; requires school districts to designate an individual to maintain complete and accurate records containing early screening reports for each child, and to provide resources and materials to the parent and/or guardian of any child who displays indications of dyslexia.

Relates to the appointment and responsibilities of the commissioners of the public service commission; requires the commission to have a duty to protect public interest, including ensuring access to utility services for residential and business customers; prohibits commissioners from having been employed within the last two years by an electric, gas, steam, telecommunications, or water utility that is regulated by the commission.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits the use, sale, distribution, and purchase of all pesticides containing paraquat dichloride or its chemical forms (including specific salts like methyl viologen) in New York State. It directly affects farmers, agricultural businesses, and anyone using paraquat-based herbicides, banning all such products starting January 1, 2027. The law explicitly defines "paraquat" using chemical identifiers (CAS numbers) to cover all related formulations. It aims to protect New Yorkers from health risks linked to paraquat exposure, such as Parkinson's disease, as noted in scientific studies cited in the bill's findings. The ban takes effect before the EPA completes its ongoing risk review of paraquat.

Maddy summaryThis bill ensures students with disabilities attending non-public schools in New York have the same due process rights and equitable access to special education services as students in public schools. It requires school districts to create individualized education service plans (IESPs) for these students and allows parents to challenge decisions through established due process procedures. The bill clarifies deadlines for parents to request services (by June 1st for the next school year, or within 30 days of disability identification/residence change) and specifies that the student's district of residence must provide these services directly or via contract.