Sen. Jamaal Bailey

Maddy summaryThis bill extends an exemption for certain large commercial insurers from needing prior regulatory approval for insurance rates and forms. It applies specifically to domestic property/casualty insurers (with a strong financial cushion) or reciprocal insurers that write at least 90% medical malpractice insurance, assume minimal reinsurance, and conduct 90% of business within the state. The exemption period is extended from 2025 to 2027. This directly affects qualifying insurers by reducing one layer of regulatory oversight for their rate-setting and form approvals.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (not a policy bill) congratulating Shawn MacKinnon on retiring after 30 years of service as a Senate staffer. It recognizes his roles including Secretary to the Senate Finance Committee, expertise in school funding, and mentorship, but contains no policy changes or mechanisms. The resolution formally acknowledges his contributions and will be sent to him as a copy. It directly affects MacKinnon as the honoree, with no impact on legislation or constituents.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires health insurance plans in New York to cover speech therapy for stuttering when recommended by a physician. It applies to all medical, major medical, and comprehensive insurance policies, mandating full coverage for both habilitative (learning new skills) and rehabilitative (regaining skills) speech therapy provided by licensed professionals. Insurers cannot limit coverage by visit count or duration for this service. The bill excludes coverage if therapy is already provided through school-based plans (like IEPs), but allows supplemental coverage outside schools with a physician referral.

Relates to contractual liability insurance policies; provides that each provider may maintain a maximum of five service contract reimbursement insurance policies insuring its service contracts actively offered.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires lenders to accept and apply mortgage payments received at specified locations and methods, prohibiting them from returning or destroying payments based solely on a payoff statement. It mandates lenders promptly apply payments to outstanding principal, interest, or fees and establishes clear deadlines (30-90 days) for providing a "satisfaction of mortgage" document after full payment. Lenders failing to meet these deadlines face escalating penalties ($500 to $1,500) unless they make fewer than five mortgage loans annually. The law directly affects mortgage lenders and borrowers by streamlining mortgage discharge processes and reducing payment-related disputes.

Maddy summaryThis bill extends two existing provisions for medical malpractice insurers until December 31, 2028. It maintains an exemption allowing certain insurers to avoid specific regulatory requirements under insurance law and prohibits legal actions (like rehabilitation or liquidation) against these insurers based on medical malpractice claims before the new deadline. The provisions directly affect domestic medical malpractice insurance companies whose primary liability stems from that business. The bill makes no new policy changes but continues current protections for these insurers through 2028.

Maddy summaryThis bill defines "pet insurance" in New York's insurance law as coverage for accidents and illnesses of pets, distinct from animal insurance. It requires insurers to clearly disclose key terms like preexisting conditions (including chronic, congenital, or hereditary conditions), exclusions, and policy limitations before sale. Insurers must also provide a 30-day "free look" period during which pet owners can return policies for a full refund without explanation. The law mandates transparent disclosure of claim payment methods and benefit schedules to help consumers understand coverage details.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (J 1100) asks Governor Hochul to officially recognize September 21-27, 2025, as Frontotemporal Degeneration (FTD) Awareness Week in New York State. It does not create new laws or funding but aims to raise public awareness about FTD, a terminal brain disease affecting speech, behavior, and motor skills, often misdiagnosed in people aged 40-60. The resolution highlights FTD's impact - accounting for 10-20% of dementia cases under 60 - and its high care costs, urging greater attention to the condition. This symbolic action directly affects New Yorkers living with FTD and their families by promoting community recognition.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (J 1131) is a ceremonial tribute honoring U.S. Army Air Forces Staff Sergeant Eugene J. Darrigan, who died in World War II on March 11, 1944. It commemorates his service and recognizes his long-overdue burial in Wappingers Falls, New York, on May 24, 2025, after remains were recovered 81 years posthumously. The resolution expresses New York State's gratitude to Darrigan's family and community for his sacrifice, but it does not create new laws or affect any policies. As a symbolic gesture, it was adopted by the Senate on June 5, 2025.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution J 1098, introduced by Senator Stavisky, formally welcomes the students, teachers, and administrators of the Bronx High School of Science to the New York State Legislative Chambers in Albany on May 28, 2025. It recognizes the school's historic contributions to education, science, and civic leadership, including its global reputation, notable alumni (such as Nobel laureates and industry leaders), and innovative programs like the IDEAS Initiative. As a ceremonial resolution, it does not create new laws or policies but serves as a symbolic gesture of appreciation for the school's legacy and impact on New York's educational community. The resolution will be presented to the school after adoption, with the legislature pausing its proceedings to honor the visit.