Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton

Creates an employer-assisted housing match grant program under which certain nonprofit employees may be eligible for a state match for certain employer-provided funds for housing costs.

Requires landlords of certain housing accommodations to include with all new and renewal leases, on any rent bills, including any electronic communication the informational material describing eligibility for and the benefits of the senior rent increase exemption program and the disability rent increase exemption program.

Amends policies and procedures to improve access to palliative care and hospice services; directs implementation of hospice-palliative care health system demonstration projects.

Authorizes municipalities to offer a real property tax exemption for combat zone service members who at any time during the taxable year performed active duty in the armed forces in a combat zone; defines terms; makes related provisions.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a state premium assistance program in New York to provide health insurance coverage to individuals who lose coverage due to changes in federal immigration policies. It directly affects lawfully present immigrants who currently qualify for federal subsidies but may become ineligible due to their immigration status. The program would offer financial assistance equivalent to federal premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions based on household income, starting no later than January 1, 2027. Additionally, the bill expands eligibility for existing coverage to include certain low-income residents regardless of federal funding availability, with special provisions for pregnant individuals and their children.

Provides that companion animals, as sentient beings, shall be considered victims of animal cruelty crimes, including but not limited to all offenses as defined in article twenty-six of the agriculture and markets law, and shall be treated as such in a court of law.

Establishes the fentanyl abuse and overdose prevention task force to conduct a comprehensive study on fentanyl abuse and overdose prevention and to report on the findings and recommendations of the task force.

Maddy summaryThis bill asks the Governor of New York to officially designate May 5, 2026, as Queens Day to recognize the borough's cultural diversity and contributions to the state. The resolution directs the Governor to issue a proclamation for this date, which will coincide with a Queens Day celebration event in Albany featuring food, beverages, and displays of local businesses. The bill is sponsored by Senator Stavisky and was adopted by the Senate on March 24, 2026, after being referred to the Finance Committee. Copies of the resolution will be sent to the Governor, the Queens Borough President's office, and the Queens Chamber of Commerce.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a Senate Resolution that formally honors Nassau County Police Officer Patricia Espinosa, who died in a car accident on January 31, 2026. The resolution expresses the legislative body's condolences to her family and acknowledges her service, community involvement, and dedication to public safety. It does not create new laws or policies but serves as an official tribute to recognize her life and contributions.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a Senate resolution that formally commemorates the 115th anniversary of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire on March 25, 2026. It recognizes the 146 garment workers who died in the 1911 tragedy and honors their legacy by acknowledging the continued efforts of labor unions in protecting workers' rights. The resolution also highlights the historical impact of the fire, which led to significant labor law reforms and the advancement of immigrant rights in New York State.