Sen. Cordell Cleare

Establishes the crime of interference with constitutional rights by public officials when, acting under color of law, such public official by force or threat of force, or by intimidation or coercion, recklessly engages in conduct which injures, intimidates, interferes with, or attempts to injure, intimidate, or interfere with another person in the free exercise or enjoyment of any right or privilege secured by the constitution or laws of the United States; or the constitution or laws of the state of New York; provides such offense is a class A misdemeanor which elevates if bodily injury occurs.

Requires each institution within the state university of New York and the city university of New York offering in-person student instruction to have at least one vending machine making emergency contraception available for purchase.

Prevents public employers from diminishing health insurance benefits provided to retirees and their dependents or the contributions such employer makes for such health insurance coverage below the level of such benefits or contributions made on behalf of such retirees and their dependents by such public employer.

Provides practical support for access to abortion care including, but not limited to, reimbursement for ground and air transportation, lodging, meals, childcare, translation services, and doula support.

Maddy summaryThis bill expands rent increase exemptions in New York City for residents with disabilities. It amends the definition of "eligible head of the household" to include people with disabilities (and their spouses or children) who qualify under city law, not just seniors aged 62+. Eligibility requires household income under annual limits tied to federal SSI benefits ($25,000 in 2025, increasing to $29,000 by 2029). The change specifically applies to properties with federally insured mortgages, directly affecting disabled residents in these housing units who meet income criteria.

Maddy summaryThis bill shifts outpatient mental health and substance use disorder services under New York's Medicaid program from a managed care model back to traditional fee-for-service billing, requiring federal approval. It directly affects Medicaid beneficiaries receiving these services and the providers (licensed facilities, clinics) delivering them. Key provisions mandate that these services be administered under fee-for-service, with savings from the transition required to be reinvested into community-based behavioral health services starting in 2026. The change takes effect October 1, 2025, and applies to services for individuals with mental illness or substance use disorders.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (J 1392) asks Governor Hochul to designate April 11-17, 2026, as Black Maternal Health Week in New York State. It aims to raise public awareness about the severe racial disparities in maternal health outcomes, where Black women in New York face significantly higher risks of pregnancy-related death and complications compared to white women. The resolution does not create new laws or allocate funds but serves as a symbolic recognition of these health inequities and supports community efforts led by Black women's health organizations. It aligns with the national Black Mamas Matter Alliance's campaign to highlight preventable maternal health challenges.

Maddy summaryThis resolution asks Governor Hochul to officially recognize April 29, 2026, as "Denim Day" across New York State. It commemorates a global awareness movement started in 1999 to protest the blaming of sexual assault victims for their clothing, and aims to support ongoing education about sexual violence. The resolution does not create new laws or policies but requests a ceremonial proclamation to honor this annual observance. It specifically references Denim Day's role in raising awareness about sexual assault, particularly for vulnerable groups like youth and LGBTQ individuals.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution (J 1432) commending Joppa Lodge No. 55 for hosting its 2026 Black History Month program on February 28. It formally recognizes the lodge's 106-year history of community service and honors its leadership, members, and keynote speaker Rev. Dr. Derrick Shahem Johnson Sr. for their cultural, educational, and community contributions. The resolution has no policy impact - it is a symbolic gesture of appreciation with no binding requirements or changes to law.

Maddy summaryThis is a symbolic Senate resolution (S 1382) requesting Governor Hochul to declare May 11-17, 2026, as "Period Poverty Awareness Week" in New York. It does not create new laws or allocate funding but aims to raise public awareness about period poverty - the inability to afford menstrual products, which affects roughly 1 in 4 women and girls and can lead to missed school or work. The resolution cites statistics on how period poverty impacts health, education, and economic opportunities for menstruators. As a procedural measure, it has no direct policy impact beyond encouraging awareness.