Sen. Bill Weber

Directs the independent developmental disability ombudsperson program to establish a service delivery structure based in New York state that includes a toll-free telephone hotline, an interactive website, and availability of in-person, telephone and email access to ombudsperson program staff or volunteers; to provide assistance for navigating and completing processes; to assist individuals in filing and preparing appeals; to assist individuals with any problems encountered; and to educate individuals on their rights and responsibilities with respect to access to services provided by the office for people with developmental disabilities and care coordination provided by health homes serving individuals with developmental disabilities or services provided by other providers.

Maddy summaryThis bill (S 8276) removes a residency requirement for the position of assistant county attorney in Rockland County, New York. It allows a person who lives in Rockland County, any county in New York's Ninth Judicial District, New York City, or an adjoining county to hold this role, even if they are not a resident of Rockland County itself. The change specifically applies only to Rockland County's assistant county attorney position and does not affect residency rules for similar roles in other counties. The bill amends state law to exempt this position from standard residency requirements for county officials.

Directs that moneys in the veterans' home services fund shall be payable on vouchers certified by the commissioner of veterans' services; directs a report to be submitted by such commissioner; directs that moneys in the military family relief fund shall be payable on vouchers certified by the commissioner of veterans' services.

Establishes a statewide program to provide free SUNY, CUNY, and community college tuition to active volunteer firefighters, volunteer emergency medical services providers, and volunteer auxiliary police officers.

Maddy summaryThis bill ensures students with disabilities attending non-public schools in New York have the same due process rights and access to special education services as students in public schools. It requires school districts to provide these services upon written request from parents or guardians by specific deadlines, with exceptions for students identified with disabilities after certain dates. School districts must develop a personalized education plan for each student and allow parents to challenge decisions through due process procedures if they disagree with service recommendations or evaluations. The bill applies to all non-public school students with disabilities in New York and mandates equitable service provision compared to public school students.

Enacts the "ratepayer disclosure and transparency act" which requires a monthly report that includes the estimated or actual ratepayer costs and benefits of any mandated state energy program to the governor and legislature including any New York climate leadership and community protection act compliance costs.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits New York's Public Service Commission from adding a "system benefits charge" to utility bills paid by ratepayers. It directly affects residential and business customers who pay electricity, gas, or water bills by preventing an additional surcharge from being imposed. The law requires the Commission to stop using this specific fee, which was designated as a "system benefits charge" on the effective date of the bill. The prohibition takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows George Orfanoudakis to join the New York State and Local Police and Fire Retirement System retroactively to June 25, 2005, the date he was employed by the North Rockland Central School District. To qualify, he must submit a written request to the state comptroller within one year of the bill's passage, and he will receive Tier II status without getting a refund on any contributions he has already made. The state of New York will cover all past service costs required to implement this membership change. The legislation takes effect immediately and is currently being reviewed by the Civil Service and Pensions committee.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 2043 formally congratulates 52 individuals who have been named the 2026 New York State Senate Women of Distinction. This ceremonial resolution recognizes these women for their professional achievements and personal contributions to their communities. The Senate will send copies of the resolution to each honoree as a gesture of appreciation. The bill does not create new laws or change existing policies, but rather serves to honor these individuals for their impact on New York State.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies election law to address fraudulent signatures on nominating or designating petitions. It establishes a specific rule where a court must declare an entire petition invalid if it finds that 25% or more of the signatures are fraudulent. The change directly affects political candidates and election officials by setting a clear threshold for invalidating filings. The legislation takes effect immediately upon passage.