Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton

Enacts the "fostering optimal classroom use of screens (FOCUS) act" to limit use of internet enabled and electronic devices and prioritize non-digital teaching methods; prohibits use by younger students; limits and restricts certain uses by older students; requires written policies for opting in for the school issued devices; prohibits social media applications, gaming and AI in school issued devices; requires registration by educational technology providers.

Maddy summaryThis bill extends the Department of Environmental Conservation's legal authority to manage blueback herring populations until December 31, 2029. The change amends the state's environmental conservation law to update the expiration date for the department's management powers over this specific fish species. Once enacted, the department will retain its ability to oversee and regulate blueback herring conservation efforts for an additional three years. The legislation takes effect immediately upon passage.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates specific segments of state and county highways across multiple counties as the "Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway." It details a continuous route from Auburn through Geneva, Buffalo, and Niagara Falls, including portions of routes 5, 20, 38, 14, 31, 78, and others. The bill requires transportation officials to install ceremonial signage identifying the byway but explicitly states this is non-binding - official highway names remain unchanged. The dedication is purely symbolic, with no alteration to road designations or traffic operations.

Maddy summaryThe New York Emergency Responder Act limits civil liability for individuals and organizations providing emergency assistance during declared emergencies. It shields volunteers and contractors (including their employees) from lawsuits for injuries caused during response efforts - such as rescue, medical aid, or infrastructure repairs - unless the injury resulted from gross negligence, reckless conduct, or intentional misconduct. This protection applies to actions taken under the request of public officials or contracts with government entities (like cities, counties, or state agencies) for up to 60 days after an emergency ends. The law directly affects emergency responders by reducing legal risks during crisis situations, covering both voluntary aid and contracted services.

Prohibits artificial intelligence companions from using features which are considered unsafe for minors; defines terms; specifies what are considered unsafe features.

Enacts the "victims protection and child sex buyer accountability act" relating to increasing the age of victims of the patronizing, promoting, and compelling of prostitution.

Authorizes certain restaurants to sell sealed bottles of private label wine for off-premises consumption with the purchase of a substantial food item.

Maddy summaryThis bill, S 4647, increases the maximum financial penalties for certain speed violations. It directly affects drivers convicted of speeding offenses. Specifically, it raises the maximum fine for exceeding the speed limit by up to ten miles per hour from $150 to $175. For those exceeding the speed limit by more than thirty miles per hour, the maximum fine increases from $600 to $700, including for vehicles transporting hazardous materials or with certain safety defects. These changes are slated to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Provides a legacy credit to the children and siblings of veterans who were killed in the line of duty including veterans who were disabled as a result of their service, exposed to toxic substances, or presumptive conditions determined by the department of veterans affairs.

Authorizes certified school psychologists to participate in the certification of certain persons as intellectually disabled or developmentally disabled; makes technical corrections to language.