Sen. Tony Palumbo

Provides for the reinstatement of state recognition and acknowledgement of the Montaukett Indian Nation; provides that the Montaukett Indian nation shall have a chief or sachem, three tribal trustees and a tribal secretary; provides for the qualification of voters; makes related provisions.

Maddy summaryS 8463 provides a one-year exemption from utility taxes and specific surcharges for all residential and commercial utility customers, effective 14 days after enactment. It also creates a two-year exemption from tariffs for renewable energy systems, electric vehicle infrastructure, and charging stations. During these periods, utility companies must reduce customer prices by the exact amount of the exempted taxes and surcharges. The state will reimburse lost revenue to utility funds within 45 days after the one-year period ends. This bill directly affects all utility ratepayers and impacts how utilities price services for renewable energy investments.

Maddy summarySenate Bill S 1665 updates the rules for vehicle operators when overtaking bicyclists and pedestrians in New York State. Outside of New York City, drivers passing a bicycle must now use "due care," which includes moving to an adjacent lane if safe, or passing at least three feet away. Similar "due care" requirements are also established for drivers passing pedestrians in these areas. For New York City, the bill retains the existing rule for drivers to pass bicycles at a safe distance and does not introduce specific new provisions for passing pedestrians.

Removes the provision that an immediate family member needs to be domiciled in the house of the license or permit holder for the purpose of commercial fishing license transfers.

Enacts "Bryan Johnson's law"; includes prior convictions of operation of a vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs as prior convictions of driving while intoxicated.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates how New York state calculates payment rates for residential health care facilities (like nursing homes) that provide long-term care. It requires the state to adjust rates annually based on current operating costs, with mandatory updates by April 2026 and every five years after, using the most recent cost data. Certain specialized facilities (such as those for children, ventilator-dependent patients, or behavioral health) retain historical rates adjusted for inflation, while others transition to the new cost-based system over a minimum four-year period. The bill also mandates a workgroup of experts to advise on rate-setting methodology and includes provisions for quality improvement funding.

Restricts the performance of surgical devocalization procedures on dogs and cats; prohibited for reasons of convenience in keeping or handling a dog or cat.

Requires consideration of evidence relating to the economic impact of major increases of rates or charges upon consumers and the areas affected by such increases of rates or charges prior to approval of any such rates or charges; establishes minimum data to be considered by the public service commission relating to such economic impact.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 2043 formally congratulates 52 individuals who have been named the 2026 New York State Senate Women of Distinction. This ceremonial resolution recognizes these women for their professional achievements and personal contributions to their communities. The Senate will send copies of the resolution to each honoree as a gesture of appreciation. The bill does not create new laws or change existing policies, but rather serves to honor these individuals for their impact on New York State.

Maddy summaryThis legislative resolution congratulates the Marlboro High School Boys Bowling Team and their coach for winning the 2026 New York State Public High School Athletic Association Division II State Championship. The bill formally acknowledges the team's 15-1 season record and their status as back-to-back state champions, highlighting the contributions of the players and their support network. It directs that a copy of the resolution be sent to the team members, the head coach, and the athletic director as an official commendation. No new laws or funding are created; the measure serves solely as a ceremonial recognition of the team's athletic achievement.