Sen. Pete Harckham

Relates to motor vehicle insurance fairness; provides that insurance rates shall not be increased based on certain factors; sets forth processes for motor vehicle insurers to have rate increases approved; allows public access in relation to any proposed insurance rate increases; allows members of the public to request permission to intervene in proceedings related to rate increases; directs rules and regulations to be established.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires insurance companies, health service corporations, and medical expense indemnity corporations to cover medically necessary diagnostic testing and FDA-approved treatments for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The coverage applies to all medical, major medical, or comprehensive-type insurance policies issued, renewed, or modified on or after the bill's effective date. Insurers must allow licensed physicians to determine the necessity of these treatments and cannot use step therapy to delay or deny coverage for FDA-approved medications prescribed to slow disease progression. The law directly affects individuals with Alzheimer's or related conditions who have health insurance in the state, ensuring their access to approved treatments without additional hurdles.

Maddy summaryBill S 7777 mandates triennial lead testing of potable water in all school districts and boards of cooperative educational services. If lead contamination exceeds action levels, affected schools must implement a "filter-first drinking water management plan" by December 2026. This plan requires installing filtered bottle-filling stations (one per 100 occupants) and filtered faucets where stations are not feasible, along with regular filter replacement and shutting off unfiltered outlets for human consumption. Schools must also provide safe drinking water until remediation is complete, notify parents of test results, and make all testing data publicly available.

Requires the commissioner of health to promulgate regulations requiring that the addition of, decertification of, or changes in the method of delivery of perinatal services by a general hospital be subject to an application under article 28 of the public health law that requires review and approval by the council.

Designates services to be provided by a jail-based substance use disorder treatment, peer led recovery support services, and transition services program as essential medical care services.

Requires for construction activities that require a state pollutant discharge elimination system permit owners and operators to submit a copy of the required public notice; requires each county receiving such notice to make such notice publicly available on its website.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a Senate Resolution that formally acknowledges the death of Frank Ritacco, a firefighter and community member from Somers, New York. It directs the legislative body to pause its proceedings to express mourning for Ritacco and authorizes sending a copy of the resolution to his family. The document serves as an official tribute rather than creating new laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis bill asks Governor Kathy Hochul to officially recognize March 2026 as Youth Art Month in New York State. It does not change laws or create new programs, but rather designates a specific month for public awareness of art education. The resolution highlights the importance of visual arts in schools and encourages community support for art programs. It is a ceremonial measure that directs the governor to issue a proclamation for the observance.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution honors the life of Richard F. Tiedeman, a New York State veteran and community member who passed away on March 1, 2026. The bill recognizes his service in the United States Marine Corps, his career in business and insurance, and his contributions to local communities including his work at Liberty Mutual and later as a camera shop employee. It directs the legislative body to pause in its proceedings to mourn his death and authorizes sending a copy of the resolution to his family. The measure serves as a formal tribute rather than establishing new laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis bill asks the Governor of New York to officially designate March 23, 2026, as Pakistan-American Heritage Day in the state. It directly affects the Pakistani-American community in New York by creating a formal day to recognize their cultural contributions and heritage. The resolution directs copies to the Governor, the Pakistani Consulate in New York City, and the American Pakistani Advocacy Group for their records. This is a ceremonial measure that does not change laws or require funding, but rather serves to acknowledge and celebrate the Pakistani-American community's presence and achievements in New York State.