Sen. Luis Sepúlveda

Requires all authorities having jurisdiction over a population exceeding five thousand residents to adopt a residential automated solar permitting platform by June thirtieth, two thousand twenty-seven.

Maddy summaryThis bill renames New York State's high school equivalency diploma from "General Education Development (GED)" or "high school equivalency diploma" to the "Excelsior diploma" across all state and city laws. It removes fees for the exam and updates references in education, correction, and city administrative codes to reflect the new name. The change directly affects individuals seeking high school equivalency credentials, including those in correctional facilities pursuing vocational training or work release programs. Key provisions include replacing all prior terminology in statutes and ensuring the Excelsior diploma is recognized as the sole pathway to this credential.

Relates to the reporting of suspected financial exploitation; requires the superintendent of the department of financial services to develop guidelines relating to reporting suspected financial exploitation; provides that a third party who reports suspected financial abuse shall have immunity from any civil or criminal liability as a result.

Maddy summaryThis bill (S 3974) amends New York State correction law to ensure incarcerated individuals do not lose earned time allowances if they fail to complete assigned work or treatment programs due to circumstances beyond their control (e.g., medical issues or facility disruptions). It specifically revises sections of the correction law to clarify that time credits - earned through good behavior, program participation, or educational/vocational achievements - must not be withheld for such unavoidable circumstances. The policy directly affects incarcerated people in state facilities who qualify for time reductions under existing programs. The change aligns with current provisions but explicitly prevents punitive withholding of time allowances for factors outside an individual’s control.

Requires health care plans and payors to have a minimum of twelve and one-half percent of their total expenditures on physical and mental health annually be for primary care services.

Maddy summaryBill S 3233 requires anyone (other than election officials) who sends mail to registered voters or voter registration applicants - intended to challenge their qualifications - to report specific details to the state election board within two business days. This includes submitting copies of the mail, the recipient list, and the sender’s personal information, with failure to comply creating a presumption that the mail cannot be used in challenges. The bill also updates voter challenge rules to mandate detailed affidavits with sworn statements, an oath, and specific documentation of the challenge reason. Additionally, it prohibits using citizenship information collected for voter challenges for any other purpose and treats citizenship certification errors as innocent.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 2106 formally recognizes the severe mental health impacts of incarceration on individuals, families, and communities in New York State. The bill calls for increased awareness, research, and policy responses to address these harms, particularly during Mental Health Awareness Month. It supports expanding access to trauma-informed mental health services for currently and formerly incarcerated individuals and encourages developing alternatives to incarceration that prioritize treatment and community-based support. The resolution is transmitted to Silent Cry, Inc. as an acknowledgment of these issues.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a Senate resolution that officially commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States on July 4, 2026. It recognizes the historic significance of this milestone and acknowledges the Sail4th 250 event, which will feature a large gathering of ships and public activities in New York City. The resolution applauds the organizers of the celebration and encourages citizens to participate in related events. No new laws or funding are created; it serves solely as a formal statement of recognition by the legislative body.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a Senate resolution that asks Governor Kathy Hochul to officially designate June 2026 as Black Music Month in New York State. The measure recognizes the historical and cultural significance of African American music, highlighting its roots in genres like jazz, gospel, and hip-hop, and its impact on both national and global culture. By formalizing this observance, the resolution aims to celebrate the contributions of Black musicians and preserve their legacy within the state. The bill does not create new laws or funding but serves as a ceremonial proclamation to honor the artistic heritage of the community.

Maddy summaryThis bill asks Governor Kathy Hochul to officially declare June 2026 as LGBTQIA+ Pride Month in New York State. The resolution honors the history of the LGBTQIA+ community, particularly the 1969 Stonewall uprising, and recognizes past legal victories such as marriage equality and workplace protections. It does not create new laws or policies but serves as a symbolic gesture to acknowledge the ongoing struggle for equality. The measure is non-binding and requires no additional action beyond the governor's proclamation.