Sen. Andrea Stewart-Cousins

Maddy summaryThis is a procedural resolution (Senate Resolution J 439) requesting Governor Hochul to officially proclaim March 2025 as Women's History Month in New York State. It directly asks the Governor to issue a formal proclamation recognizing women's contributions across society. The resolution cites New York's historical role in women's rights milestones, including suffrage, education, and leadership, but does not create new laws or policies. As a commemorative measure, it has no direct impact on residents or legislation beyond the ceremonial recognition.

Maddy summaryThis is a commemorative Senate resolution (J 423) adopted by the Senate on March 4, 2025, to honor the life and legacy of John O. Peck, a small business owner and community member from Vista, New York. The resolution formally expresses the legislature's condolences to his family following his death on February 14, 2025, at age 73. It details his personal life, career founding J.O. Peck Heating & Cooling, and his roles as a husband, father, grandfather, and community contributor. As a ceremonial resolution, it has no legislative effect beyond this symbolic tribute.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 433 commemorates the 38th Annual SOMOS Spring Conference (March 7-9, 2025) and pays tribute to SOMOS, Inc. for its advocacy on behalf of Puerto Rican and Latino communities in New York State. The resolution formally recognizes the organization's work in supporting Hispanic youth through scholarships, internships, and leadership programs like the Angelo Del Toro Puerto Rican/Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute. It does not create new policies or affect any legislation, but serves as a ceremonial acknowledgment of SOMOS, Inc.'s community contributions. The resolution was adopted by the legislature on March 4, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (J 440) commemorates five women selected for the 2025 New York State Senate Historical Women of Distinction exhibit. It formally recognizes Florence Finch, Crescencia Joyce Garcia, Mary Anne Krupsak, Mary Pinkett, and Uma SenGupta for their historical contributions, alongside previously honored figures like Harriet Tubman and Eleanor Roosevelt. The resolution has no binding effect; it serves as a ceremonial tribute, with copies to be sent to the National Women's Hall of Fame and New York State Division for Women.

Maddy summaryThis resolution requests Governor Hochul to proclaim May 2025 as Lupus Awareness Month in New York. It recognizes the impact of lupus on approximately 105,400 New Yorkers and seeks to increase public awareness of this chronic autoimmune disease, which disproportionately affects women and certain ethnic groups. The resolution does not create new laws or allocate funding but formally urges the Governor to support awareness efforts. It was adopted by the legislature on February 25, 2025.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 346 is a ceremonial resolution honoring Dr. Pablo Ulloa for his advocacy on behalf of Dominican Americans in New York. It recognizes his work as the Ombudsman of the Dominican Republic, his professional background with international organizations like the Inter-American Development Bank, and his efforts supporting the Dominican diaspora community. The resolution, adopted by the Senate, formally acknowledges his contributions to advancing equity, healthcare access, and social services for underserved populations. A copy of the resolution will be sent to Dr. Ulloa as a gesture of recognition.

Maddy summaryThis resolution memorializes Governor Hochul to officially proclaim March 3-7, 2025, as School Breakfast Week in New York State. It does not create new laws or change funding but formally recognizes the importance of school breakfast programs through a ceremonial observance. The resolution highlights existing state efforts like the Breakfast After the Bell program and Community Eligibility Provision, which help provide free breakfasts to over 876,000 students annually. It serves as a symbolic gesture to raise awareness about school nutrition, not a policy change.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution J 380 asks Governor Hochul to declare February 15-22, 2025, as FFA Week in New York. It is a symbolic resolution honoring the National FFA Organization (Future Farmers of America), which supports agricultural education and student leadership development. The resolution does not create new laws or policies but formally requests the Governor issue a proclamation to recognize FFA's role in promoting agricultural literacy and career readiness for students. This resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 25, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new tax relief program for homeowners and small businesses in New York municipalities affected by disasters. It allows eligible properties (owner-occupied homes with three or fewer units, or qualifying small businesses) to receive reduced property taxes after a declared local or major disaster, provided the property suffered significant damage (minimum 50% value loss). Municipalities must pass local laws authorizing the relief, setting a maximum tax reduction amount and specifying how long the relief applies. The program only covers properties impacted after January 1, 2020, and requires local governments to establish application deadlines.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 316 honors Mary E. Rainey, a Peekskill community leader who died on January 3, 2025, for her 40-year career at the Westchester Community Action Program, including her work with youth through the Youth Employment Program. The resolution recognizes her dedication to community welfare, civic service, and leadership at the Kiley Center. It directs that a copy be transmitted to her family as a formal tribute. This is a commemorative resolution with no policy impact or affected parties beyond honoring her legacy.