Sen. James Sanders

Maddy summaryThis bill asks Governor Kathy Hochul to officially recognize May 22, 2026, as Maritime Day in New York State. It directly affects state officials and maritime workers by establishing an annual commemorative date. The resolution highlights the economic importance of waterways and the contributions of merchant mariners to New York's economy and history. It also acknowledges SUNY Maritime College's role in training future maritime professionals. The bill is ceremonial and does not create new laws or funding.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires New York state agencies, boards, departments, and commissions to collect more detailed demographic data about Black/African American communities, moving beyond the current single "Black/African American" category. It mandates breaking down data by specific ethnic groups (such as Jamaican, Nigerian, Haitian, or others) to reflect the diversity within this population, which currently includes descendants from over 87 countries. The policy aims to make this disaggregated data publicly accessible so local governments and officials can better target programs addressing unique community needs. The bill aligns with recent federal changes to race and ethnicity reporting standards, which now require similar disaggregation by 2029. It directly affects all state entities that collect demographic information, ensuring more accurate representation for diverse Black communities.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution honors Saint Patrick and all persons of Irish descent on the occasion of Saint Patrick's Day on March 17, 2026, while also directing the Governor to proclaim March 2026 as Irish American Heritage Month in New York. The bill recognizes the historical contributions of Irish Americans to the state and nation through public service, military service, and cultural achievements, and acknowledges the traditions associated with the celebration. It does not create new laws or funding but serves as a commemorative measure to recognize heritage and encourage the Governor to issue an official proclamation. Copies of the resolution will be sent to the Governor, the Archbishop of New York, and officials associated with the New York City Saint Patrick's Day Parade.

Enacts the "facial recognition technology study act" to study privacy concerns and potential regulatory approaches to the development of facial recognition technology.

Authorizes a study on lithium-ion battery fires and prevention to review the severity of lithium-ion battery fires, including what specific components of the battery causes severe fires; examine the effectiveness of lithium fireproof blankets on such fires; examine the current measures of safety implemented by fire departments across New York in relation to lithium-ion battery fires; requires a report to the governor and the legislature; makes related provisions.

Relates to available transportation for correction facility visitation; provides for at a minimum, bimonthly free transportation from the city of New York, Rochester, Syracuse, Buffalo and Albany.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution honors New York State's Korean War veterans by pausing legislative proceedings on April 29, 2026, to recognize their service and sacrifice. The measure formally acknowledges the historical significance of the Korean War and the dedication of those who served in the conflict. It does not create new laws or funding but serves as a ceremonial gesture to celebrate the bravery of veterans and their contributions to national security. The resolution reflects the state's ongoing commitment to remembering military service and honoring the legacy of those who defended freedom during this historic period.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs the Governor of New York to officially designate May 4, 2026, as 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum Day in the state. The resolution honors the 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum military installation by recognizing their historical service, economic impact on Northern New York, and the sacrifices made by soldiers stationed there. It does not create new laws or funding but serves as a formal proclamation to acknowledge the unit's legacy and contributions to national defense. Copies of the resolution will be sent to the Governor, the 10th Mountain Division commander, and Fort Drum leadership.

Maddy summaryThis bill asks Governor Kathy Hochul to officially recognize July 20, 2026, as Colombian Independence Day in New York State to mark the 216th anniversary of Colombia's independence. The resolution provides historical context about Colombia's struggle for independence from Spanish rule in 1810 and acknowledges notable Colombian figures who have contributed to New York. The bill directs the Senate to send copies of the resolution to the Governor and the Colombian Consulate General in New York.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates Monday, March 10, 2026, as Harriet Tubman Day in New York State to honor her life and legacy as an abolitionist and humanitarian. The resolution directs the state legislature to pause its proceedings on that date to recognize Tubman's contributions to freedom and equality. It does not create new laws or funding but serves as a formal commemorative acknowledgment of her historical significance.