Sen. Julia Salazar

Maddy summaryThis bill asks Governor Kathy Hochul to officially designate April 2026 as Arab American Heritage Month in New York State. The resolution highlights the historical contributions and cultural significance of Arab Americans within the state, noting that New York is home to over 300,000 individuals from diverse Arab backgrounds. By directing copies of the resolution to the governor and several advocacy organizations, the measure seeks to raise public awareness and promote recognition of this community's heritage.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires New York State's education regents to include water safety instruction in the curriculum for students from kindergarten through twelfth grade. The law mandates that the instruction cover identifying drowning risks, understanding safe behaviors for both children and adults, and learning how to respond to water-related emergencies. The regents will decide how to integrate this component into existing courses, with options including interactive assemblies, presentations, or classroom activities. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2027.

Maddy summaryNew York State bill S 9094 bans the use, sale, distribution, and purchase of all pesticides containing paraquat dichloride or its chemical forms (identified by CAS numbers 4685-14-7, 1910-42-5, and 2074-50-2). The law directly affects farmers, agricultural businesses, and anyone using paraquat-based herbicides in New York. It takes effect January 1, 2027, prohibiting all paraquat products after this date. The bill cites scientific evidence linking paraquat exposure to increased risks of Parkinson's disease and certain cancers, following the EPA's ongoing review of the chemical.

Maddy summaryBill S 5565 requires health insurance policies, including comprehensive-type coverage, and Medicaid to cover patient navigation services. This coverage is for individuals facing serious health conditions expected to last at least three months, who are at high risk for outcomes like hospitalization or physical decline. Patient navigation services include screening for nonclinical needs such as transportation or housing, connecting individuals to support services, and assisting with healthcare appointments. Reimbursement is provided to trained and certified patient navigators who work under the general supervision of a licensed healthcare provider.

Requires the secretary of state to develop and mandate training of police department personnel and state police officers on the protocols of the address confidentiality program.

Provides that in any jurisdiction in which a party is eligible under local law for free legal counsel, if such party has in good faith attempted to secure such counsel and is unable to obtain counsel through no fault of their own, the court shall adjourn the trial of the issue for consecutive periods of not less than fourteen days each until the party is able to secure counsel.

Relates to strengthening of utility storm response and compliance by reviewing mitigating factors including but not limited to mitigating factors and the specifics surrounding the violation or violations.

Prohibits utility corporations from imposing late fees, interest, or penalties during an investigation by the commission; allows retroactive late fees, interest, or penalties if a determination is made in favor of such utility corporation; prohibits utility services from being terminated during an investigation by the commission; requires utility corporations to notify customers of investigations; requires notice to the general public; requires the public service commission to prepare reports on investigatory proceedings relating to gas, electric, and steam service.

Establishes the tenant power act; authorizes the establishment of tenant unions and sets forth the powers and duties of such organizations; establishes the statewide tenant association; provides for the enforcement of such provisions; establishes the statewide tenant association fund; makes an appropriation therefor.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes the City of New York to create a residential parking permit system in specific neighborhoods of Brooklyn to address traffic hazards, congestion, and pollution. Under the new rules, residents in designated areas would need to purchase permits to park on local streets, while commercial zones, metered spaces, and vehicles registered under specific programs would remain exempt. The legislation mandates that at least 20% of parking spots stay open for non-residents with short-term access and requires all permit fees to be collected and transferred to the city's mass transit agency. A public hearing must be held before any local ordinance is adopted, and the authority to implement this system is set to expire on December 1, 2030.