Sen. Dean Murray

Relates to the regulation of social media companies and social media platforms; provides for age requirements for the use of social media and parental consent; prohibits certain data collection from social media accounts; limits the hours a minor can have access to social media; establishes penalties for violations.

Restores judicial discretion relating to bail reform; provides that when the defendant is charged with a felony, the court shall request of the applicable county pre-trial services agency a risk and needs assessment be conducted on the eligible defendant for the purpose of determining whether such defendant should be released on the defendant's own recognizance, released under non-monetary conditions or, where authorized, bail or commit the defendant to the custody of the sheriff; defines risks and needs assessment; makes related provisions.

Prohibits the use of SUNY dormitories for the purposes of providing permanent or temporary housing for migrant populations; requests the board of trustees adopt a policy stating such.

Establishes the offense of aggravated reckless endangerment; includes aggravated reckless endangerment as a qualified offense the court must consider and take into account for securing an order.

Maddy summaryThis bill repeals New York's Driver's License Access and Privacy Act, removing restrictions on how driver's license information may be handled. It eliminates privacy protections that previously limited access to license data, while adding new requirements for applicants: providing a Social Security number (or affidavit for non-compliant IDs), registering for organ donation via a "skip" option, and confirming Selective Service registration compliance for applicants aged 18-26. These changes apply directly to all individuals applying for or renewing a New York driver's license, learner's permit, or non-driver ID. The repeal specifically targets the privacy act's provisions, not the new requirements added in its place.

Directs the department of health to conduct a study on opening three new veterans nursing homes in New York state; provides for the repeal of such provisions upon expiration thereof.

Relates to the liability of payroll processing companies; provides that payroll processing companies that intentionally and wrongfully prevent the distribution of payroll shall be liable to employees that failed to receive an expected payment for an amount up to three times the expected amount; provides an action to recover damages may be maintained as a class action.

Maddy summaryS 8511 allows employers hiring volunteer or paid firefighters to conduct background checks on job applicants. The bill requires employers to provide applicants with copies of any background records obtained and give them a chance to explain the results. This directly affects firefighters applying for positions with fire departments across New York. The law adds a specific provision to criminal procedure law, ensuring transparency in the background check process for this workforce. It does not change existing background check rules for other professions.

Provides that in certain instances the school district budget will be approved if the majority of the votes cast are in the affirmative and if the budget, without the separate proposition or propositions, does not exceed the tax levy limit.

Establishes a high school robotics grant program; provides funding to high schools for participation in robotics competitions; sets forth eligibility requirements; provides for the application and awards process.