Sen. James Skoufis

Requires principals convicted of certain animal cruelty offenses undergo a presentencing forensic psychological evaluation and a report be submitted to the court based on such evaluation and to attend counseling, humane education, a rehabilitation program, or other such treatment based on such report.

Requires the governor to prepare an annual preliminary management report of the state and a final management report of the state which includes an assessment of performance goals and measures and other information pertaining to the actions of state agencies.

Maddy summarySenate Bill S 5837 increases the state tax credit available to active volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers. Beginning January 1, 2027, the individual credit will rise from $200 to $1,200 for resident taxpayers who have served for the entire taxable year. For two qualifying spouses filing a joint return, the credit will be $2,400. This bill also removes the previous restriction that prevented volunteers from claiming this credit if they also received a real property tax exemption for their service. The credit is refundable if it exceeds the taxpayer's tax liability.

Permits the state and local municipalities to purchase from sources other than the correctional industries program of the department of corrections and community supervision.

Establishes the New York COVID-19 children's fund program to provide assistance to children whose parent, custodian, legal guardian, or related adult household member died as a result of contracting COVID-19, regardless of immigration status of such children.

Maddy summaryS 644 prohibits corporations from making political contributions that would require disclosure on Schedule B of campaign finance filings. It allows corporations to spend up to $5,000 annually on political activities (excluding Schedule B contributions) but bans all other corporate contributions, loans, or guarantees to candidates or political committees. The bill directly affects corporations, political committees, and candidates by restricting corporate political spending and clarifying disclosure requirements. Key provisions include banning Schedule B contributions entirely and requiring repayment of loans to candidates by election dates. This amendment to New York's election law takes effect immediately upon passage.

Maddy summaryThis bill restricts health care employers from requiring nurses or health care workers (excluding doctors, residents, and security staff) to work more than their regularly scheduled hours, except in specific emergencies or during ongoing surgical procedures. It defines "regularly scheduled work hours" to include pre-scheduled on-call time and shift report communication, and prohibits using on-call time as a substitute for mandatory overtime. Exceptions include health care disasters, official emergency declarations, unanticipated staffing emergencies, or procedures requiring continuous presence for patient safety. The law aims to protect patient care quality by limiting excessive work hours, without affecting existing rights under other laws or collective bargaining agreements.

Adds to the crime of public lewdness the electronic transmission of an image depicting exposed private or intimate parts without the consent of the recipient.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a registration system for medical assistants in New York. It allows registered medical assistants to perform basic administrative tasks (like filing records and billing) and advanced clinical tasks (such as administering vaccines) under the supervision of licensed healthcare providers. To become registered, individuals must complete an approved education program, pay fees ($115 initial, $45 triennial), and meet character and age requirements. Only those registered with the state may use the title "Registered Medical Assistant" or the abbreviation "M.A.-R."

Establishes the "New York state lead-safe renovation, repair and painting act"; establishes standards for lead-safe renovation, repair and painting of residential properties; requires documentation of compliance with such standards.