Sen. Nathalia Fernández

Establishes a wound care kit and xylazine test strip distribution program to supply wound care kits designed for the treatment of injection-related wounds and skin and soft tissue infections, and xylazine test strips, to individuals with a substance use disorder or who are otherwise at risk of drug use, free of charge; prohibits facilities from collecting personally identifying information on such individuals; prohibits police from targeting individuals receiving wound care kits or xylazine test strips under such program.

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.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires large group health insurance plans to cover hearing aids for policyholders who receive a medical evaluation and have them fitted by a licensed hearing aid provider. It mandates coverage for the cost of hearing aids (up to $2,500 per ear every 36 months) but prohibits insurers from denying coverage based on brand, style, or technology. The law applies to all large group medical, major medical, or comprehensive health insurance policies and ensures coverage for in-network providers. It directly affects insured individuals with hearing loss and the insurers offering these plans.

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.

Relates to the duty owed by cities and counties to children in the legal custody of such cities and counties with respect to the placement of children; provides a statutory private right of action for compensatory damage.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits utility companies from terminating residential electricity or heat service during forecasts of extreme temperatures - specifically when the National Weather Service predicts 95°F or higher (heat index) or 32°F or lower. It directly affects residential customers in New York, preventing service cutoffs on the day of such forecasts or during any subsequent holiday or weekend. Key provisions require utilities to maintain service during these periods and align with existing cold-weather protections for vulnerable residents. The law applies immediately upon enactment and does not override stricter existing utility settlements.