Sen. Zellnor Myrie

Makes it unlawful for a vendor to make, either directly or indirectly, any contribution to a statewide elected official, a candidate for a statewide elected office, or their authorized political committee, during a certain restricted period; requires a candidate, officeholder, or political committee that receives such contributions to return or refund the contributions forthwith; requires procurement contracts to contain a statement that the vendor awarded the contract has not made any such contributions.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies election laws to streamline the process for primary elections where no candidates are running for specific offices. It requires election officials to stop sending ballots to voters in districts where every race is uncontested, with the exception of local party committee positions. When a ballot is not sent due to an uncontested election, the law mandates that the voter be notified and told the reason for not receiving a ballot. The changes apply to both the current election law and a recently added provision, taking effect immediately upon passage.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits health insurers and healthcare plans from requiring prior authorization for pre-exposure prophylaxis medications used to prevent HIV infection. Under the new rules, these plans must allow patients to receive the drugs without first getting approval, though they can still deny claims if the medication is later found to be medically unnecessary. The law applies to various types of prescription drug coverage providers and includes a delay of approximately six months before it takes effect.

Decreases the frequency of lock-down drills in schools; directs that such drills shall be implemented with a trauma-informed approach; permits parents to opt their children out of such drills.

Relates to the dangers to safety and health and the creation of a public nuisance caused by the sale, manufacturing, distribution, importing, and marketing of firearms.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits residential landlords from charging tenants any fees for paying rent through automated clearing house or online payment systems. It also ensures that landlords cannot force tenants to use electronic payments exclusively and must offer at least one free payment method, such as cash or personal checks. Any agreement where a tenant tries to waive these protections is declared invalid. The law applies to all residential landlords and takes effect immediately upon passage.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs Governor Kathy Hochul to officially proclaim June 2024 as Caribbean American Heritage Month in New York State. The resolution recognizes the significant cultural contributions and historical impact of Caribbean Americans, highlighting notable figures who have shaped the state and nation. By adopting this proclamation, the legislature aims to celebrate the diversity and achievements of this community while acknowledging their ongoing role in New York's society.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors Jillian Hanesworth and Augustus Clarke for winning the 2024 Sports Emmy Award in the Short Film category. The bill formally recognizes their work on the film "Still Here," which highlights the resilience of Buffalo following the 2022 mass shooting and blizzard. It directs the legislative body to pause its proceedings to acknowledge their achievement and mandates that a copy of the resolution be sent to them. The measure serves as a public commendation of their specific contribution to the NFL 360 series rather than altering any laws or policies.

Authorizes courts to hold evidentiary hearings for a temporary order of protection in certain circumstances; grants superior court judges the authority to issue a temporary order of protection when an action is pending in a local criminal court in certain circumstances.

Requires each institution within the state university of New York and the city university of New York offering in-person student instruction to have at least one vending machine making emergency contraception available for purchase.