Sen. Pat Fahy

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits government incentives for commercial renewable energy projects like solar farms in sensitive environmental areas and on active farmland, with specific exceptions for agrivoltaic systems that combine solar power with agriculture. It removes eligibility for financial assistance, zero emission credits, and tax exemptions for such projects located in critical environmental areas, bird conservation zones, grassland bird centers, and wildlife management areas. The legislation also formally defines agrivoltaics as solar systems that simultaneously produce energy and agricultural products without displacing farming activities, while excluding certain practices like sole reliance on pollinator habitats or sheep grazing. These changes directly affect developers proposing renewable energy projects and government agencies administering agricultural and environmental programs.

Prohibits the application of fail-first or step therapy protocols to coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of serious mental health conditions; defines serious mental health condition.

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.

Requires a board of elections in a county with over ten thousand active registered voters to employ a minimum of four full-time employees which may include the commissioner and deputies if such positions are full time.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates the New York Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing as a new state executive agency designed to coordinate services and advocate for the needs of deaf and hard-of-hearing residents. The commission will consist of eleven members, including at least six individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, appointed by the governor to serve on staggered terms. Its primary duties include developing educational programs, evaluating existing state services, monitoring program effectiveness, and making recommendations to improve policies and support systems. The commission will also work with other government agencies and organizations to ensure better access to resources and accommodations for the community.

Establishes a deposit and recycling program for wine containers and liquor containers with 5 cent deposits for containers less than 24 oz and 10 cent deposits for containers over 24 oz; provides for labeling of such containers; makes related provisions.

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 legislative resolution congratulates the Marlboro High School Boys Bowling Team and their coach for winning the 2026 New York State Public High School Athletic Association Division II State Championship. The bill formally acknowledges the team's 15-1 season record and their status as back-to-back state champions, highlighting the contributions of the players and their support network. It directs that a copy of the resolution be sent to the team members, the head coach, and the athletic director as an official commendation. No new laws or funding are created; the measure serves solely as a ceremonial recognition of the team's athletic achievement.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution honors Carlos Beltran, a professional baseball player, on the occasion of his induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. The bill formally recognizes his athletic achievements, including his time with the New York Mets and Yankees, and his philanthropic work through his foundation and community service. It directs the New York State Capitol to pause its proceedings to acknowledge Beltran and mandates that a copy of the resolution be sent to him. The measure does not allocate funds or change laws but serves as an official statement of appreciation from the legislative body.

Authorizes municipalities located outside the city of New York to impose a tax on high-value non-primary residences having a five-year average market value threshold as set by the municipality between 2.5 and 5 million dollars or more; provides for authorized rates of taxation, administration and enforcement, and revenue distribution.