Sen. Andrew Lanza

Maddy summaryThis bill is a Senate resolution that formally acknowledges the death of Sergeant Richard T. Gurniak, a retired New York Police Department officer who served 30 years and was a respected member of the Brewster Police Department. The document highlights his long career in law enforcement, his role as a mentor to new officers, and his active participation in community and family life. It concludes by directing that a copy of the resolution be sent to Gurniak's family as a tribute to his service and contributions to his community.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a Senate resolution honoring the life and service of Officer Jose Colon, a retired NYPD officer who recently passed away. It formally acknowledges his career in the U.S. Army and his two decades of police work, including his response to the September 11 attacks and his continued service in the Brewster Police Department. The resolution directs the legislative body to pause its proceedings to mourn his death and instructs that a copy of the document be sent to his family.

Maddy summaryThis bill asks the Governor of New York to officially designate June 2024 as Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month. The resolution highlights the significant impact of the disease, noting that over 427,000 New Yorkers are affected and that it kills more people than breast and prostate cancer combined. By directing the Governor to proclaim this month, the legislature aims to increase public awareness and encourage further action against the disease. The text includes statistics on the rising number of cases, the high cost of care, and the challenges faced by caregivers and communities of color.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution commemorates the 100th anniversary of the Franklin Square & Munson Fire Department, honoring its century of service to the community. The bill formally recognizes the department's history, which began in 1907 with volunteer horse-drawn units and evolved into a modern force serving approximately 30,000 residents. It acknowledges the department's growth from a single company to a multi-unit organization that responds to over 1,000 annual calls for fire and medical emergencies. The resolution expresses gratitude for the firefighters' dedication and directs a copy of the document to the department members.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows schools to use portable suction devices designed to clear airways during choking emergencies. It requires schools that have these devices to create policies for their use and to train designated staff, such as nurses and employees, on airway management. The legislation also permits schools to seek reimbursement for training costs and provides legal protection for volunteers who use the devices to help students.

Requires the reinstatement of certain officers and employees of the city of New York who were dismissed from employment due to a COVID-19 vaccine requirement including retirees, vested members and members terminated without a one-year limit on return.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows courts to admit evidence of a defendant's prior sexual offenses in current sexual offense trials, provided the evidence helps prove motive, intent, or identity. It requires prosecutors to share details about these prior acts with the defense at least fifteen days before the trial begins. The law also mandates that judges ensure the value of this evidence outweighs any unfair prejudice to the defendant before allowing it. By defining specific crimes as "sexual offenses," the bill clarifies which prior acts are eligible for admission under these new rules.

Maddy summaryThis bill asks the Governor of New York to officially declare May 12-18, 2024, as Fibromyalgia Awareness Week. The resolution highlights the challenges faced by people with fibromyalgia, a chronic condition causing widespread pain and fatigue, and notes the need for better medical understanding and support. It also acknowledges the work of the Fibromyalgia Task Force of New York State in advocating for improved diagnosis and treatment. The bill is a symbolic gesture intended to increase public awareness rather than changing specific laws or funding.

Maddy summaryThis bill asks Governor Kathy Hochul to officially recognize May 14, 2024, as Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Day in New York. The resolution highlights the widespread impact of domestic violence across various demographics and emphasizes the need for increased awareness and prevention efforts. It does not create new laws or change existing policies but serves as a formal statement to honor the issue and support ongoing advocacy work.

Maddy summaryThis bill congratulates the 2024 New York State Senate Women of Distinction, a group that honors women who have made significant contributions to the state. The legislation does not create new laws or change existing policies but serves as a formal recognition of these individuals' achievements. It is a ceremonial measure intended to acknowledge their service and impact within the legislative body.