Sen. Rachel May

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 346 is a ceremonial resolution honoring Dr. Pablo Ulloa for his advocacy on behalf of Dominican Americans in New York. It recognizes his work as the Ombudsman of the Dominican Republic, his professional background with international organizations like the Inter-American Development Bank, and his efforts supporting the Dominican diaspora community. The resolution, adopted by the Senate, formally acknowledges his contributions to advancing equity, healthcare access, and social services for underserved populations. A copy of the resolution will be sent to Dr. Ulloa as a gesture of recognition.

Maddy summaryThis resolution memorializes Governor Hochul to officially proclaim March 3-7, 2025, as School Breakfast Week in New York State. It does not create new laws or change funding but formally recognizes the importance of school breakfast programs through a ceremonial observance. The resolution highlights existing state efforts like the Breakfast After the Bell program and Community Eligibility Provision, which help provide free breakfasts to over 876,000 students annually. It serves as a symbolic gesture to raise awareness about school nutrition, not a policy change.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution J 380 asks Governor Hochul to declare February 15-22, 2025, as FFA Week in New York. It is a symbolic resolution honoring the National FFA Organization (Future Farmers of America), which supports agricultural education and student leadership development. The resolution does not create new laws or policies but formally requests the Governor issue a proclamation to recognize FFA's role in promoting agricultural literacy and career readiness for students. This resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 25, 2025.

Relates to updating school concussion management and response protocols; requires that the injured student have returned to a full class schedule without academic accommodations prior to resuming athletic activity.

Maddy summaryS 5007, the "Dark Skies Protection Act," requires all outdoor lighting fixtures (including those on homes, businesses, and public spaces) to be shielded by January 1, 2028, to reduce light pollution. The law aims to protect the night sky for wildlife, safety, and energy conservation while exempting essential uses like airport lighting, emergency services, and certain safety-focused fixtures. Municipalities may adopt stricter rules than the state law, and property owners face civil penalties for noncompliance (up to $1,000 for commercial properties after repeated violations). The bill directly affects all property owners and businesses using outdoor lighting across the state.

Prohibits the department of environmental conservation from charging any application fee or any other fee for activities undertaken pursuant to a lake program.

Establishes a native plant and seed supply, development and enhancement program; requires the commissioners of the departments of agriculture and markets, environmental conservation and economic development to develop a list of plants and seeds eligible for consideration in such program; makes related provisions.

Maddy summaryThis bill (S 2672) changes the cancellation rules for consumers purchasing vehicles through automobile broker businesses in New York. It requires brokers to provide a clear "Notice of Cancellation" form with contracts, giving consumers three days to cancel without penalty after receiving the contract (or until vehicle delivery, whichever comes first). If the vehicle isn't delivered within 30 days due to the broker's delay, consumers can cancel and get a full refund. The bill also adds a new requirement that brokers disclose they are not affiliated with dealerships or manufacturers. These changes directly affect consumers buying vehicles through auto brokers and aim to increase transparency and consumer rights.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 316 honors Mary E. Rainey, a Peekskill community leader who died on January 3, 2025, for her 40-year career at the Westchester Community Action Program, including her work with youth through the Youth Employment Program. The resolution recognizes her dedication to community welfare, civic service, and leadership at the Kiley Center. It directs that a copy be transmitted to her family as a formal tribute. This is a commemorative resolution with no policy impact or affected parties beyond honoring her legacy.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (J 312) is a ceremonial request for Governor Kathy Hochul to officially designate February 2025 as Black History Month in New York State. It does not create new laws or affect specific groups; instead, it asks the Governor to issue a formal proclamation recognizing the month. The resolution cites historical milestones of African American contributions to U.S. history, culture, and civil rights as context for the observance. It was adopted by the legislature on February 5, 2025, but remains a symbolic gesture without binding policy changes.