Sen. Nathalia Fernández

Prohibits incarcerated individuals who are determined to suffer from a substance use disorder for which there is no FDA approved addiction medications from being administered medication approved for a different disorder.

Prohibits the sale of foods containing synthetic color additives in schools except under certain circumstances off and away from the premises or on premises at least a half hour after the end of the school day.

Maddy summaryThis bill asks Governor Kathy Hochul to officially designate April 2026 as Arab American Heritage Month in New York State. The resolution highlights the historical contributions and cultural significance of Arab Americans within the state, noting that New York is home to over 300,000 individuals from diverse Arab backgrounds. By directing copies of the resolution to the governor and several advocacy organizations, the measure seeks to raise public awareness and promote recognition of this community's heritage.

Maddy summaryBill S 5565 requires health insurance policies, including comprehensive-type coverage, and Medicaid to cover patient navigation services. This coverage is for individuals facing serious health conditions expected to last at least three months, who are at high risk for outcomes like hospitalization or physical decline. Patient navigation services include screening for nonclinical needs such as transportation or housing, connecting individuals to support services, and assisting with healthcare appointments. Reimbursement is provided to trained and certified patient navigators who work under the general supervision of a licensed healthcare provider.

Prohibits public employers from diminishing health insurance benefits provided to Medicare-eligible retirees and their Medicare-eligible dependents or the contributions such employer makes for such health insurance coverage below the level of such benefits or contributions made on behalf of such retirees and dependents by the public employer as of December 31, 2021.

Maddy summaryS 1673 requires employers in New York to provide new employees with information about student loan repayment options when hiring for entry-level positions requiring an associate's degree or higher, including post-graduate internships. The bill mandates that employers distribute materials developed by state agencies covering federal repayment plans (like income-based options), loan consolidation, and public service forgiveness programs, plus links to the Department of Financial Services' student lending resources. It directly affects new hires in qualifying roles and all employers in the state, including public employers who must additionally detail public service forgiveness programs. The law does not change loan terms but ensures new employees receive clear, accessible guidance on managing student debt. The bill passed the Senate in March 2025 and is now in the Assembly.

Relates to strengthening of utility storm response and compliance by reviewing mitigating factors including but not limited to mitigating factors and the specifics surrounding the violation or violations.

Authorizes and directs the public service commission to establish rules to limit a utility's ability to recover its direct or indirect costs associated with its attendance in, participation in, preparation for, or appeal of any rate proceeding conducted before the commission.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes a new tax credit for individuals who own up to two household pets, specifically dogs or cats kept primarily for companionship. The credit would cover actual costs associated with pet ownership, including medical care, veterinary visits, and everyday expenses like food, toys, and grooming supplies. Taxpayers could claim a maximum of $150 annually for everyday items and $300 for medical expenses per pet, with a total cap of $900 per household per year. To qualify, owners must provide proof of pet ownership and receipts for expenses, while the bill explicitly excludes pets used in research, breeding, or law enforcement work.

Requires the preparation and dissemination of written materials regarding child access prevention and the safe storage of firearms; establishes such information shall be provided to students and/or persons in a parental relationship to such students at the beginning of each semester or quarter of the regular school year beginning on and after July 1, 2026.