Sen. Nathalia Fernández

Maddy summaryThis bill amends state law to officially classify sheriffs, under-sheriffs, and deputy sheriffs in New York City as police officers. The change updates specific sections of the Criminal Procedure Law to remove language that previously distinguished these officials from police based on their location. By making this designation, the legislation aligns the legal terminology for New York City law enforcement with that used for other counties in the state. The act takes effect immediately upon approval, ensuring the new classification is recognized without delay.

Enables prosecutors to access orders of protection issued in association with sealed prior domestic violence cases if the offender commits a new domestic violence offense.

Directs the commissioner of health to establish guidelines for onsite opioid overdose response capacity in community centers; defines "community center".

Enacts the "beauty justice act"; provides for the regulation of ingredients in personal care products and cosmetics; prohibits the sale of personal care products and cosmetic products containing certain restricted products.

Relates to the disposal of seized perishable or canned foods; provide such foods should not be disposed of but should be donated to a food relief organization or homeless shelter.

Enacts the "New York city teleworking expansion act"; provides that each agency shall establish a policy and program to allow employees to perform all or a portion of their duties through teleworking to the maximum extent possible without diminished employee performance; defines the term "telework" to mean to perform normal and regular work functions on a workday that ordinarily would be performed at the agency's principal location at a different location, thereby eliminating or substantially reducing the physical commute to and from such agency's principal location.

Adds to the crime of public lewdness the electronic transmission of an image depicting exposed private or intimate parts without the consent of the recipient.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits employers, employment agencies, and labor organizations from discriminating against individuals because they are caregivers for family members with disabilities or older adults. It expands legal protections to include a broad definition of "caregiver" covering those who provide daily care or supervision for children under 18 or covered family members aged 65 and older, regardless of whether the care recipient lives in the caregiver's home. The legislation also clarifies that "reasonable accommodation" for caregivers includes flexible schedules, remote work options, and time off for appointments, provided these changes do not cause an undue hardship to the business. By adding "status as a caregiver" to the list of protected characteristics, the bill ensures that people cannot be fired, denied hiring, or treated unfairly in employment settings due to their caregiving responsibilities.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows volunteer firefighters to receive a property tax exemption on their homes if they live in the same school district where they serve. To qualify, firefighters must have been certified members of their fire company for at least five years, and their home must be their primary residence used only for living. The exemption covers up to $12,000 of the property's value, calculated using the state's equalization rate, and requires each school district to hold a public hearing before adopting the rule. Additionally, firefighters with over 20 years of service can receive this exemption for life, provided their district approves it. Existing volunteer firefighters who already receive other benefits under current laws will not lose those benefits if they also apply for this new tax break.

Establishes a fetal and infant mortality review board to study fetal and infant mortality and morbidity and make recommendations on policies, best practices, and strategies to reduce fetal and infant mortality and morbidity within New York city.