Sen. Steve Chan

Provides that the New York state health care quality and cost containment commission shall: evaluate each mandated benefit; investigate current practices of health plans with regard to the mandated benefit; investigate the potential premium impact of repealing and/or modifying the mandated benefits on all segments of the insurance market; hold at least two public hearings; submit a report to the legislature; makes related provisions.

Provides a tax credit for utility bill payments made in taxable years 2025 and 2026 based on the difference of the average monthly utility bill payment in the year in which the credit is claimed and the average monthly utility bill payment in the preceding three taxable years; establishes a moratorium on certain utility bill surcharges until April 1, 2026; provides for the repeal of such moratorium upon expiration thereof.

Directs the issuance of special number and distinctive license plates for military service members and members of veterans organizations without payment of service charges or renewal fees.

Amends the 2024 capital projects budget to allow competitive grants to include funding for safety and security projects at small businesses at risk of hate crimes or attacks.

Bars a person who is convicted of a hate crime from attending any SUNY or CUNY institution; provides for the expulsion of a student who is convicted of hate crimes; provides for reinstatement of such student if the conviction is subsequently overturned.

Grants free access and parking at state parks for active-duty military members and veterans upon showing an active-duty military or veteran's ID card.

Adds an additional two non-voting members to the metropolitan transportation authority board, one who is the police chief of the MTA police department and the other who is chosen by the labor organization representing the majority of employees of the police department of the authority.

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.

Establishes a legislative commission on article V conventions of the states to represent the state of New York at article V conventions; provides penalties for commissioners who exceed their scope of authority and individuals who interfere with the duties of a commissioner.

Maddy summaryS 8277 designates May as "Elder Appreciation Month" in New York State, recognizing older adults through a symbolic legislative designation. The bill adds May to the list of designated commemorative months under the executive law, clarifying it is not a holiday but a month for public recognition of elders. This change affects no specific programs or funding - its sole purpose is to formally honor older residents annually. The bill requires no new government action beyond the designation, aligning with standard commemorative month practices.