Asm. Nikki Lucas

Maddy summaryThis bill extends a 2013 law allowing behavior analysts employed in state-regulated programs (such as those under the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities, Office of Children and Family Services, or Office of Mental Health) to perform their duties without violating licensing restrictions. It specifically clarifies that this extension does not authorize the use of certain titles defined under education law. The provision is temporary and will expire on July 1, 2030, after which the previous restrictions will resume. The bill affects licensed behavior analysts working in these state-funded or regulated programs.

Maddy summaryThis bill (A 6887) gives workers with compensation claims the right to choose their own pharmacy for prescribed medications when their employer or insurance company fails to authorize the medication within 72 hours for specific reasons - such as refusal to pay, delays in reauthorization due to missing medical reports, or disputes over treatment guidelines. It directly affects injured workers who face medication access barriers through the employer's contracted pharmacy network. Pharmacies dispensing medications under this provision must follow state fee schedules, medical treatment guidelines, and formulary rules, and will be paid within 45 days of approval. The law aims to prevent medication delays while ensuring cost accountability for both workers and insurers.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) to maintain and clearly document policies allowing family members or eligible individuals to take over public housing units after the current tenant dies or permanently leaves the unit. It mandates that NYCHA create written procedures covering eligibility, relocation needs, payment during the process, and the right to appeal denials. NYCHA must provide 30 days' written notice and accept public comments before changing these policies. The law applies directly to NYCHA tenants seeking to inherit housing units and ensures these processes comply with federal, state, and local rules.

Requires peer-to-peer car sharing programs provide insurance coverage in amounts equal to the financial responsibility requirements set forth in section three hundred eleven of the vehicle and traffic law; removes requirements relating to requiring additional insurance coverage.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires health insurance plans to cover backup cochlear implant devices for patients who need them, including during device upgrades or replacements after the initial implant. It directly affects patients with cochlear implants who currently lose access to backup equipment after 3-5 years, as insurers only cover backups at the time of initial surgery. The law mandates that insurance must cover the backup device (external components like a processor) whenever prescribed by a qualified healthcare provider, as long as the patient is using the implant. Coverage will follow standard insurance terms like deductibles and copays but must remain available throughout the patient's need for the device, effective January 2027.

Maddy summaryThis Assembly Resolution (K 752) requests Governor Hochul to issue a proclamation designating November 3, 2025, as Panamanian Independence Day in New York State. It commemorates Panama’s 1903 independence from Colombia and honors the Panamanian-American community’s cultural contributions. The resolution has no legal effect and serves solely as a symbolic gesture to recognize this historical milestone. It was adopted by the Assembly on June 10, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis is a symbolic resolution (not a bill with policy changes), which asked Governor Hochul to proclaim November 3, 2025, as "Panamanian Heritage Day" in New York State to honor Panama's independence. It directly affected the Governor (as the recipient of the memorial) and the Panamanian-American community in New York, recognizing their cultural contributions. The resolution was withdrawn on May 29, 2025, and does not create any new laws or obligations. It was purely commemorative, with no concrete policy impact.

Maddy summaryAssembly Resolution 609 commemorates the 30th Anniversary of the Panamanian Parade scheduled for October 11, 2025, in Brooklyn. It recognizes the parade as the largest Panamanian cultural event outside Panama, celebrating Panamanian heritage, independence history, and community contributions. The resolution honors the Day of Independence Committee of Panamanians in New York, Inc. (DICPNY) for fostering cultural preservation and multicultural unity over 30 years.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (K 577) commemorates Panama's existing observances by designating May 2025 as "Fiesta de la Etnia Negra" (Black Heritage Month) and May 31, 2025, as "Dia de la Etnia Negra Nacional" (National Black Heritage Day). It honors Afro-Panamanian cultural contributions, including music, traditions, and historical roles in Panama's development. The resolution is symbolic - no new policies are created - and calls on New Yorkers to recognize these heritage celebrations. It was introduced and adopted on May 22, 2025, by the New York Assembly.

Maddy summaryBill A 1316 prohibits employers, labor organizations, employment agencies, and state or municipal agencies from using an individual's consumer credit history when making decisions about hiring, employment, or granting licenses and permits. This includes information from credit reports, credit scores, and details about an individual's payment history or debts. The bill outlines specific exceptions where credit history can still be considered, such as for law enforcement positions, jobs requiring federal security clearance, or roles involving significant financial authority or access to trade secrets. Additionally, agencies can still consider an applicant's failure to pay taxes, fines, or court-ordered judgments.