Sen. Tony Palumbo

Maddy summaryBill S 1189 establishes new licensure requirements for entities providing fiscal intermediary services for personal assistance programs. Beginning April 1, 2027, these fiscal intermediaries must obtain a license from the commissioner, a process that includes an application fee and an assessment of their character, competence, and compliance. The bill also broadens the definition of fiscal intermediaries, modifies their annual reporting obligations, and creates a confidential state registry for personal assistants that these intermediaries must maintain. This legislation directly affects fiscal intermediaries, personal assistants, and consumers utilizing these services.

Provides a state income tax exemption for volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers who have qualifying service in the taxable year for which such exemption is sought.

Establishes new targets for offshore wind electricity generation; includes the requirements that there is at least 15 gigawatts of offshore wind electricity generation by 2040, at least 18 gigawatts of offshore wind electricity generation by 2045 and at least 20 gigawatts of offshore wind electricity generation by 2050.

Permits at the discretion of the court certain members of the deceased victim's family to read statements in court during the sentencing of a defendant, rather than allowing only a single member of the victim's family to read a statement in court, upon consultation with counsel for the defendant and the people.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits releasing most balloons outdoors to reduce environmental harm from balloon debris, which pollutes waterways, harms wildlife through ingestion or entanglement, and damages industries like fishing. Exceptions include scientific experiments by government agencies, manned hot air balloons, and balloons released indoors. Violating the ban can result in fines up to $1,000 or up to 15 days in jail. The law applies to common balloons containing gas (like latex or mylar) released outside, excluding the specified exceptions.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires all visitors entering New York correctional facilities to undergo body scanning before entry, and mandates that incarcerated individuals be scanned upon intake and after visits. It specifies that facilities must offer alternative screening methods for medical reasons or if someone declines scanning, though visitation may be denied for non-medical refusal. Regulations will define when scanning is required, including accommodations for medical needs and prohibiting harassment for choosing alternatives. The law takes effect immediately, with related public health law changes set to be repealed alongside it.

Maddy summaryThis bill increases residential solar tax credits by raising the credit rate to 26% of qualified solar equipment costs. It sets new annual credit limits: $3,750 for systems installed before 2026, $5,000 for 2026-2025, and $10,000 for systems installed on or after January 1, 2026. The credit applies to homeowners who install qualifying solar systems (including equipment for heating, cooling, hot water, or electricity) at their primary residence, covering equipment purchases, installation, and certain lease agreements. Low-income taxpayers and those in disadvantaged communities may receive refunds for excess credits starting in 2026, rather than carrying them forward. The policy directly affects residential property owners installing solar energy systems in the state.

Enacts the "blocking illegitimate reservations and defending individual entertainment (BIRDIE) act" to prohibit third-party reservation services from listing, advertising, promoting or selling reservations for state-owned golf courses; provides monies received from penalties shall be deposited in the golf fund.

Maddy summaryS 508 requires New York's Court of Appeals to provide written copies of any appellate briefs (legal documents filed in appeals) to anyone who submits a written request to the clerk of the chief judge. The bill specifically mandates that victim names and personal identifying information in sexual assault cases must be redacted before releasing any documents. This law takes effect immediately upon passage, increasing public access to court filings while protecting sensitive information in certain cases. It directly affects the public and legal professionals seeking court records.

Relates to the unlawful discharge of a loaded firearm toward any police officer, firefighter, corrections officer, peace officer, or emergency medical services personnel.