Sen. Gustavo Rivera

Maddy summaryThis bill asks the Governor of New York to officially recognize May 22, 2024, as the International Day for Biological Diversity within the state. It serves as a formal acknowledgment of the importance of protecting the variety of life in New York's ecosystems, including its plants, animals, and fungi. The resolution does not change laws or allocate funding but instead directs the Governor to issue a proclamation highlighting the global biodiversity crisis and the state's role in conservation. By adopting this measure, the legislature aims to raise public awareness about environmental issues without implementing new regulatory requirements.

Maddy summaryThis bill expands telehealth reimbursement rules to ensure remote medical visits are paid at the same rates as in-person appointments for most services. It specifically allows for payment of additional provider types and audio-only phone consultations, provided federal funding supports these changes. The legislation also clarifies that certain facility fees are not required for telehealth since no physical clinic space is used. Mental health and addiction services will continue to be reimbursed at full in-person rates unless the state commissioner determines a specific service is unsuitable for remote delivery.

Requires the commissioner to establish Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander history and civic impact curriculum or instructions for school districts.

Establishes application processing and review requirements for reprieves, commutations and pardons by the governor; requires the governor to provide: a written notification that the application has been received; a receipt number that the applicant can then use to check on his or her application status; guidelines for supplementing the application with additional or updated information; and a notification when a decision is made on the application; requires quarterly reports to the legislature regarding reprieves, commutations and pardons.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a Senate resolution that formally acknowledges the death of Cecilia Gentili, a community advocate and actress from Brooklyn. It honors her life by highlighting her significant contributions to supporting transgender people, sex workers, and the LGBTQIA+ community through her work in healthcare, policy, and the arts. The resolution does not create new laws or change policies but instead serves as an official tribute to her legacy and asks that the legislative body pause to mourn her passing.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a Senate resolution that formally acknowledges the death of Sergeant Richard T. Gurniak, a retired New York Police Department officer who served 30 years and was a respected member of the Brewster Police Department. The document highlights his long career in law enforcement, his role as a mentor to new officers, and his active participation in community and family life. It concludes by directing that a copy of the resolution be sent to Gurniak's family as a tribute to his service and contributions to his community.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a Senate resolution honoring the life and service of Officer Jose Colon, a retired NYPD officer who recently passed away. It formally acknowledges his career in the U.S. Army and his two decades of police work, including his response to the September 11 attacks and his continued service in the Brewster Police Department. The resolution directs the legislative body to pause its proceedings to mourn his death and instructs that a copy of the document be sent to his family.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors the recipients of the LeadingAge New York 2024 Long Term Care Employee of Distinction Awards. It specifically recognizes over 400 individuals working in not-for-profit and public senior care facilities across New York State, including nurses, social workers, and support staff. The bill directs the legislature to pause briefly to acknowledge these employees and requires that copies of the resolution be sent to each award recipient. This action serves as a formal commendation for their dedication during a period of workforce challenges and post-pandemic recovery.

Maddy summaryThis bill asks the Governor of New York to officially designate June 2024 as Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month. The resolution highlights the significant impact of the disease, noting that over 427,000 New Yorkers are affected and that it kills more people than breast and prostate cancer combined. By directing the Governor to proclaim this month, the legislature aims to increase public awareness and encourage further action against the disease. The text includes statistics on the rising number of cases, the high cost of care, and the challenges faced by caregivers and communities of color.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution commemorates the 100th anniversary of the Franklin Square & Munson Fire Department, honoring its century of service to the community. The bill formally recognizes the department's history, which began in 1907 with volunteer horse-drawn units and evolved into a modern force serving approximately 30,000 residents. It acknowledges the department's growth from a single company to a multi-unit organization that responds to over 1,000 annual calls for fire and medical emergencies. The resolution expresses gratitude for the firefighters' dedication and directs a copy of the document to the department members.