Sen. Gustavo Rivera

Maddy summaryThis bill changes New York's parole process by requiring the state board of parole to consider specific, evidence-based factors when deciding whether to release incarcerated individuals on parole. It mandates that the board evaluate rehabilitation efforts (like vocational training or therapy participation), release plans (including job opportunities and community support), and the seriousness of the crime, while prohibiting decisions based solely on victim input. The board must now provide detailed written explanations for denials and report quarterly to the public on parole denials, including demographic data (without identifying individuals) and reasons for each decision. This directly affects incarcerated individuals seeking parole and the parole board's decision-making procedures.

Prohibits cases from being closed without a hearing or written stipulation; requires a stenographic record of all hearings held; requires minutes and decisions to be provided to the injured worker in their native language.

Maddy summaryThis bill asks Governor Kathy Hochul to officially recognize June 2026 as Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month in New York. The resolution highlights the significant impact of the disease, noting that it affects hundreds of thousands of residents and causes more deaths than certain cancers. It also points out the high costs of care and the challenges faced by caregivers, including issues of discrimination in healthcare settings. By adopting this measure, the legislature intends to increase public awareness and encourage further action on this health issue.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution commemorates the 101st birthday of Malcolm X, recognizing him as a significant advocate for human rights and an influential African American leader. The bill directs the legislative body to pause its proceedings to honor his life, detailing his history from his birth in Omaha to his work as a minister, his founding of civil rights organizations, and his assassination in 1965. By adopting this measure, the legislature formally acknowledges his contributions to the struggle for equality without imposing any new laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution honors the life and legacy of Marilyn D. Mosley, a Brooklyn educator and community leader who passed away on May 4, 2026. The bill formally recognizes her contributions to public education, local government, and progressive political advocacy through a series of "whereas" clauses detailing her career and achievements. It concludes by directing the legislative body to pause its proceedings to pay tribute to her and instructs that a copy of the resolution be sent to her family.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 2102 formally recognizes the 50th anniversary of InterFaith Works of Central New York, an organization based in Syracuse. The bill does not change any laws or policies but instead serves as a ceremonial tribute to the group's five decades of service in refugee resettlement, interfaith dialogue, and community support. It directs the state legislature to pause its proceedings to honor the organization and requires sending a copy of the resolution to InterFaith Works.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors the life of Ronald F. Lipton, a community leader and public servant who passed away in January 2026. The bill formally acknowledges his contributions to civic engagement, public service, and local governance throughout his life. It directs the legislative body to pause its proceedings to pay tribute to Lipton and sends a copy of the resolution to his family.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows courts to award punitive damages against the estate of a deceased person accused of sexual abuse, assault, misconduct, or sex trafficking of minors or adults. It removes the barrier of the defendant's death, enabling victims to pursue punitive damages against the personal representative of the estate in civil lawsuits. The standard for proving punitive damages under this law is a "preponderance of the evidence," and the bill explicitly states that such claims cannot be limited or ended by the defendant's death. It applies to all pending and future cases filed on or after the effective date.

Maddy summaryS 428 requires chain restaurants with 15 or more locations in New York to display a warning icon and clear text next to menu items exceeding 2,300 mg of sodium - the daily recommended limit - beginning two years after the law takes effect. It directly affects large chain restaurants operating in New York, mandating they label high-sodium items (like certain burgers, fried foods, or processed dishes) with a standardized icon and a factual statement about sodium risks. Restaurants must report sodium content quarterly to the health department and face civil penalties of up to $250 per day per non-compliant location. The bill does not require menu changes but aims to increase consumer awareness of high-sodium options through mandatory labeling.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires all covered water systems (serving specific residential populations) to replace every lead service line in their systems by November 1, 2037. It mandates that water systems cover all replacement costs at no direct charge to property owners, including planning, construction, and restoration. Property owners must allow access for replacement or opt-out by replacing their portion within 45 days at their own expense. The law applies to all lead pipes connecting water mains to buildings, including those owned by customers, and defines "lead service lines" to include certain galvanized pipes and lead connectors.