Sen. Brad Hoylman-Sigal

Maddy summaryThis is a symbolic Senate Resolution (J 259), not a legislative bill with policy changes. It formally commemorates the 17th anniversary of Kosovo's independence (declared February 17, 2008) through a resolution adopted by the legislature. The resolution acknowledges Kosovo's history, progress in democracy, and the contributions of Kosovar communities in New York to cultural and economic life. It has no direct impact on laws, regulations, or affected populations beyond expressing legislative recognition.

Maddy summaryThis is a Senate resolution (J 255) commending Brandon Gruttemeyer for receiving the New York State Senate's Liberty Medal - the highest honor for an individual. It recognizes his heroic 2024 rescue of a non-swimmer who nearly drowned at Lake George, where he located the victim underwater and administered life-saving CPR until emergency services arrived. The resolution formally praises his actions and transmits a copy of the resolution to him. As a commemorative resolution, it has no legislative effect beyond the Senate's ceremonial recognition.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution requests Governor Hochul to proclaim May 2025 as Muslim History Month in New York State. It aims to recognize Muslim cultural contributions, promote education about historical Muslim achievements (such as advancements in science and medicine), and foster community understanding. The resolution does not create new laws but encourages symbolic acknowledgment through the Governor's proclamation.

Maddy summaryS 3171 requires the SUNY trustees to create a system-wide zero waste action plan within one year, directly affecting all 13 SUNY universities and 24 community colleges. The plan must address waste reduction (like eliminating single-use plastics and improving procurement), reuse, recycling, composting, and student/faculty engagement, with specific metrics and a 2033 deadline for achieving zero waste. Each campus must then develop its own detailed action plan within 180 days, prioritizing reusable materials over single-use options. SUNY trustees must annually report progress to the legislature and the public, including waste audits and campus compliance updates.

Maddy summaryThis bill mandates that children attending licensed daycare facilities in New York must receive the influenza vaccine, as recommended by federal health guidelines. It directly affects parents or legal guardians of children aged two months to eighteen years enrolled in licensed daycare programs. The law requires caregivers to ensure their child receives the vaccine, with free administration available through county health officers for families unable to afford private providers. Existing requirements for other vaccines (like measles or polio) remain unchanged; this bill specifically adds influenza to the list of required immunizations for daycare attendance.

Relates to the publication of immunization information; requires schools to provide immunization information to the commissioner of health; requires the department of health to make immunization information, including rates of immunization, available on its website.

Maddy summaryThis bill removes the mandatory retirement age of 70 for judges and justices in specific New York courts, including the Court of Appeals, Supreme Court, County Court, Surrogate's Court, Family Court, and certain New York City courts. It amends the judiciary law to eliminate the requirement that these officials retire by December 31 following their 70th birthday. The change applies to all judges in these positions, including those already serving who were not previously subject to the 70-year retirement rule. The bill does not affect constitutional retirement requirements or change other terms of judicial service. It is currently pending in the Judiciary Committee.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits drivers from wearing virtual reality headsets while operating any motor vehicle, limited use automobile, motorcycle, or bicycle on public roads. It specifically bans the use of VR headsets - distinct from other audio devices - while driving, aiming to prevent distractions that could impair safe operation. The law takes effect 60 days after enactment, with immediate authority granted to create necessary rules for implementation. It directly affects all road users operating the listed vehicles, focusing on eliminating a specific distraction hazard.

Provides that limited liability for persons held jointly liable shall not apply to parties held liable for failing to provide reasonable security or failing to provide security required by federal, state or local law, rules or regulations.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits the retail sale of tobacco products with non-tobacco flavors (like fruit, mint, chocolate, or candy) and accessories that add such flavors. It directly affects tobacco businesses, retailers, and manufacturers licensed under New York's tax law, banning them from selling these products. Violations carry a civil fine of up to $500 per incident, and anyone can file complaints about violations. The bill also explicitly prevents law enforcement from stopping or questioning people regarding possession, consumption, or purchase of these products.