Sen. Brian Kavanagh

Enacts the "Renewable Capitol act"; requires the office of general services, in consultation with the power authority of the state of New York, to ensure that all operations that power, heat or cool the empire state plaza complex shall entirely use renewable energy systems; requires the office of general services to establish an advisory committee to advise the office of general services on the preparation, design and content of a plan for the use of renewable energy systems.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates the laws governing wrongful death lawsuits in the state to clarify which types of financial compensation families can receive when a loved one dies due to someone else's actions. It explicitly allows juries to award damages for specific losses, including funeral costs, medical bills incurred before death, emotional grief, and the loss of financial support, guidance, and companionship. The legislation also defines exactly who is eligible to receive these funds, such as spouses, domestic partners, children, and individuals who acted as parents to the deceased, while establishing a legal process to divide the money fairly among them based on their specific relationship to the decedent. Additionally, the bill adjusts the time limit for filing these lawsuits to three years generally, with a shorter deadline for cases related to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

Expands the eligibility period for indigent legal service attorneys to receive certain loan forgiveness; increases loan reimbursement for certain attorneys who work in legal services with indigent clients.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution honors the memory of Salvador Vizcarrondo Jr., a community leader from Endicott, New York, who passed away in October 2025. The bill formally acknowledges his lifelong dedication to education and youth development, particularly his long service with the Upward Bound program at Binghamton University. By adopting this resolution, the legislative body pauses its proceedings to express condolences and transmits a copy of the tribute to Vizcarrondo's family.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally recognizes the New York State 4-H organization for hosting its 91st Annual Capital Days event in Albany from May 17 to 19, 2026. The bill does not create new laws or change policies; instead, it serves as a ceremonial gesture to honor the program's nearly century-long history of teaching youth leadership and civic skills. By adopting this resolution, the legislature expresses its appreciation for the volunteers and staff who support the event, which brings young people from across the state to learn about government and community service.

Maddy summaryThis bill officially recognizes May 2, 2026, as "I Love My Park Day" throughout New York State. It encourages residents to participate in volunteer cleanup and restoration events at public parks and beaches on that date. The resolution serves as a symbolic acknowledgment of an existing community stewardship program rather than creating new legal requirements.

Maddy summaryThis bill asks Governor Kathy Hochul to officially recognize August 15, 2026, as India Independence Day within New York State. The resolution highlights the historical significance of India gaining independence from British rule in 1947 and the subsequent adoption of its constitution. By passing this measure, the legislature intends to honor Indian heritage and educate residents about the country's struggle for self-determination. Copies of the resolution will be sent to the Governor, the Consul General of India, and local Indian organizations.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a Senate resolution that formally recognizes the 100th anniversary of the birth of John Coltrane, a celebrated jazz musician and New York resident. It expresses the legislative body's appreciation for his contributions to the state's cultural heritage and his significant impact on the global music scene. The resolution does not create new laws or require any action from agencies but instead serves as an official tribute to his legacy and artistic achievements.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors the life of Arthur W. Jones Jr., a professional athlete and community member from New York who passed away in October 2025. The bill formally pauses legislative proceedings to express mourning for Jones, who was a former Syracuse University football star and an NFL player with the Baltimore Ravens, Indianapolis Colts, and Washington Redskins. Additionally, the resolution acknowledges his roles as an entrepreneur and charitable donor before directing a copy of the document to his family.

Maddy summaryThis bill asks Governor Kathy Hochul to officially designate May 2026 as Preeclampsia Awareness Month in New York. The resolution highlights preeclampsia as a serious pregnancy-related condition that can cause high blood pressure and lead to severe health risks for mothers and babies. By proclaiming this month, the state aims to increase public awareness and encourage better care for those affected by the condition.