Relates to outdoor restraints of dogs; prohibits inhumane tethering, including during dangerous weather conditions when a weather alert, advisory or warning is in effect; provides for civil penalties for violations.
Provides that persons charged with a parking violation shall be able to make an electronic court appearance unless a locality elects not to permit electronic appearances.
Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits insurance companies from denying coverage, canceling policies, increasing premiums, or limiting coverage for homeowners or renters insurance solely because a policyholder owns a specific dog breed or mix. It directly affects renters and homeowners who might have faced higher costs or denial due to their dog's breed. The law requires insurers to base decisions on factors other than breed, ensuring fair treatment for all policyholders. This change applies to all new policies and renewals issued 90 days after the law takes effect.
Establishes a nonprofit news media jobs grant program within the newspaper and broadcast media jobs program to provide grants to support certain nonprofit media organizations which increase employees.
Prohibits a public officer or member of the legislature from have a building or space named after themself while holding public office based on the fact that such person was responsible for securing public funds for the person or entity involved in naming the building or for securing public funds for the person's or entity's cause or agenda.
Maddy summaryBill A1214 prohibits New York employers from requiring job applicants or employees to waive legal rights (such as claims under state or federal law) as a condition of employment. It directly affects all employers and job seekers in New York State by banning pre-employment agreements that diminish rights like wage claims or discrimination protections. The law specifically excludes collective bargaining agreements with labor unions. This creates a clear legal requirement that employers cannot force individuals to give up existing or future legal claims to secure a job. The bill takes effect 90 days after enactment.
Provides for automatic issuance of identification cards to incarcerated individuals and assistance with obtaining copies of any documents needed to apply for identification cards, including, but not limited to, an incarcerated individual's social security card and birth certificate.
Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new pathway for foreign-trained dentists to obtain a New York license. It allows dentists licensed outside the U.S. (who can't qualify for licensure by endorsement) to receive a limited permit to practice under supervision in federally qualified health centers serving underserved populations, provided they have at least five years of dental experience. After completing five years of practice under this limited permit, they may apply for full licensure. The permit is valid for one year (renewable annually during a residency or preceptorship) and requires passing a competency exam. This directly affects international dentists seeking to practice in New York, particularly in areas with dental health shortages.
Maddy summaryThis bill (A 9571) increases family leave benefits under New York's workers' compensation law, directly affecting eligible employees taking leave for medical care, bonding with a newborn, or military family exigencies. It gradually raises weekly benefit percentages (from 50% to 67% of average weekly wage) and extends maximum leave duration (from 8 to 12 weeks) over time, with specific phased-in dates starting in 2018. Covered employers must provide these enhanced benefits while maintaining health insurance coverage during leave. The changes apply to employees meeting eligibility criteria under the law, with the Superintendent of Financial Services retaining limited authority to delay increases.
Enacts the "ratepayer transparency act" which requires bills utilized by public and private gas corporations, electric corporations and gas and electric corporations in levying charges for service to include separate categories for certain charges.
