Asm. Karines Reyes

Enacts the "gender identity respect, dignity and safety act"; relates to the treatment and placement of incarcerated individuals based upon gender identity; requires that incarcerated individuals in state and local correctional facilities who have a gender identity different from their assigned sex at birth be addressed and have access to commissary items, clothing and other materials that are consistent with the person's gender identity; establishes that incarcerated individuals shall be presumptively placed in a correctional facility with persons of the gender that most closely aligns with such person's self-attested gender identity unless the person opts out of such placement.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes standards and funding rules for social model adult day services designed for elderly individuals with physical or cognitive impairments. It directs the state director to create regulations covering staffing, admission criteria, and safety inspections, while also requiring training on recognizing elder abuse. The legislation sets up a funding system where the state provides grants to non-profit and local agencies to cover up to 75% of program costs, with higher support available for financially needy providers. Additionally, it clarifies that these funds cannot replace existing services or be used for people already covered by other government programs.

Directs the state commission of correction to promulgate rules and regulations for strip searches in correctional facilities which at a minimum include a requirement that no fewer than two staff members shall be present for any strip search.

Relates to creating the health emergency response data system, which collects information and statistical data relating to public health emergencies in order to assist the department of health, other government entities, health care providers, and the public in understanding and responding to public health emergencies.

Relates to prohibiting the sale or distribution of expanded polystyrene containers that are designed or intended to be used for cold storage beginning January 1, 2026.

Relates to the statewide presumptive eligibility standard; authorizes local social services districts to utilize child care block grant funds for the presumptive eligibility period.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates November 26th of every year as Sojourner Truth Day in New York State. It achieves this by adding the new commemoration to the official list of state days of recognition found in the executive law. The change allows schools and other organizations to observe the day in honor of the abolitionist and women's rights activist.

Establishes the people with disabilities access to programs commission to examine, evaluate and make recommendations for new laws with respect to how the state should streamline eligibility requirements and processes for its programs and services to assist people with disabilities.

Relates to participation by individuals with disabilities with respect to state employment and state contracts; requires contractors to report to state agencies regarding the utilization and participation of work on both service and commodity contracts by a person with a disability; requires such state agencies to report to the office of general services and the office of general services to report to the state procurement council, governor, comptroller and the legislature.

Directs the commissioner of corrections and community supervision to establish a program to purchase fresh produce from farms located in the state and distribute such fresh produce to correctional facilities in the state to be utilized in the provision of wholesome and nutritious food to incarcerated individuals.