Requires a government photo identification card to be presented when casting a ballot; provides for a method to receive a government photo identification card at no charge.
Sponsored bills
Allows victim impact statements in New York state be video recorded; requires that the members of the parole board and all presiding commissioners for such hearing review all relevant victim impact statements prior to the conduct of a parole hearing and to sign a written attestation confirming that they have done so.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires state, county, and local transportation projects to prioritize safe access for all road users, including drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit riders. It mandates that agencies using complete street design principles consider these needs during the planning, design, and construction of new or rebuilt roads, while also applying these standards to maintenance projects lasting at least ten years. Additionally, the legislation updates the criteria for determining when a road project is unnecessary, adding community support as a key factor alongside traffic volume and land use. The law will not apply to projects approved before it becomes effective and will take effect approximately 260 days after passage.
Enacts "Melanie's law"; relates to orders of protection; allows courts to issue orders of protection for immediate family members or household members of the named victims, regardless of age.
Extends the time period for tenancy rights from 30 days to 45 days of possession; adds squatting to the definition of criminal trespass in the third degree.
Maddy summaryThis bill designates New York as a "purple heart state," a symbolic title with no direct impact on laws or government operations. The legislation adds a single line to the state statutes to include this designation, which takes effect on January 1st of the following year. Because the change is purely commemorative and does not alter existing policies or affect specific groups, it serves as an honorary recognition rather than a functional policy update.
Provides that the thruway authority shall issue permits for ambulances and fire vehicles exempting such vehicles from paying tolls on the thruway when engaged in an emergency operation.
Requires the court to commit a defendant to the custody of the sheriff when such defendant is charged with an offense under the penal law involving the use or possession of a firearm, and such firearm is not legally registered, licensed or possessed in accordance with section 400.00 of the penal law.
Maddy summaryThis bill proposes creating a peer support program specifically designed for first responders to help them access mental health resources. It would establish a system where trained individuals within the first responder community provide support to their colleagues facing emotional or psychological challenges. The legislation aims to integrate these peer support services into existing mental health frameworks to better address the unique stressors faced by emergency personnel. Currently, the bill is in the legislative process and has been referred to committees for further review.
Repeals certain provisions establishing a fee for background checks on certain firearm and ammunition purchases; removes such fees as a source of funds for the background check fund.