Sen. Jim Tedisco

Relates to rechargeable battery recycling; adds a battery used as the principal electric power source for an electric scooter or bicycle with electric assist to the definition of "rechargeable battery"; provides that a battery manufacturer may not sell, offer for sale, or distribute rechargeable batteries in the state unless the battery manufacturer is implementing or participating under an approved plan; allows a city with a population of one million or more to enforce through its own agencies.

Maddy summaryThis bill (S 4423) clarifies the types of damages survivors can recover in wrongful death cases in New York. It specifically allows recovery for funeral expenses, medical costs related to the injury causing death, emotional distress (grief/anguish), loss of financial support or inheritance, and loss of guidance or companionship. The damages would go directly to the decedent's spouse, children, parents, or others in a parental role (like a guardian), with distribution based on proven financial losses. The bill was vetoed by the governor on December 5, 2025, so it did not become law.

Maddy summaryS 5677 establishes a 5-year demonstration program in Schenectady allowing the city to use photo speed cameras in school zones to issue fines to vehicle owners for speeding. The program applies during school hours, before/after school, and during student activities in up to 20 school zones, with strict requirements for camera calibration, daily testing, and privacy protections (blurring driver/vehicle details in images). Vehicle owners receive notices of liability based on camera evidence, which must be destroyed after case resolution or one year, whichever comes later. The program expires December 31, 2030.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution (not a legislative bill) commemorating the unveiling of the Solomon Northup sculpture "Hope Out of Darkness" in Saratoga Spa State Park. It honors Solomon Northup, a free Black New Yorker kidnapped into slavery for 12 years, whose story is documented in his memoir *Twelve Years a Slave*. The resolution recognizes the sculpture's unveiling on July 10, 2025 (Northup's 218th birthday) as a historic milestone, with the artwork later traveling to Marksville, Louisiana - the site of Northup's enslavement. The resolution has no policy impact; it serves solely to formally acknowledge this memorial event.

Requires manufacturers of kratom products within the state to have a warning label that the product has not been approved by the federal food and drug administration and the products' side effects; prohibits labeling of kratom products as all natural.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (not substantive legislation) commending John J. Ivers posthumously for being named recipient of the New York State Senate's Liberty Medal - the highest honor for individuals. It recognizes his military service (Navy in WWII, Marines in Korea, including a Silver Star for combat bravery), his civilian career at General Electric, and his family life. The resolution formally honors him as a veteran who "demonstrated his love for his country" and directs that a copy be sent to his family. As a procedural resolution, it has no legal effect or direct impact on policy or individuals.

Relates to hotel and motel taxes in Saratoga county and the city of Saratoga Springs; increases the allowable amount of tax imposed by the county; removes exemptions for properties having less than 4 units; relates to the disposition of tax revenues collected; eliminates an advisory committee.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution J 1252 is a ceremonial resolution memorializing Governor Hochul to formally recognize June 2025 as LGBTQIA+ Pride Month in New York State. It does not create new laws or policies; instead, it requests the Governor issue a symbolic proclamation to honor the community's history and ongoing advocacy. The resolution cites key LGBTQIA+ milestones, including the Stonewall uprising and New York's marriage equality law, to frame the recognition. This is a procedural resolution with no direct effect on residents or policy implementation.

Authorizes the commissioner of general services to transfer and convey certain lands in the town of Wilton, county of Saratoga, to the Veterans and Community Housing Coalition.

Authorizes the department of transportation to establish and implement a state memorial sign program to memorialize persons who died due to injuries sustained in a fatal motor vehicle crash on state highways.