Sen. Steve Rhoads

Maddy summaryS 6639 increases the percentage of overtime pay excluded from retirement benefit calculations for public employees from 15% to 30% of their regular wages. It directly affects state and local government workers covered by retirement systems using "final average salary" calculations. The bill changes the threshold so more overtime pay will now be included in determining retirement benefits, rather than excluded.

Enacts the "End the Toll Trap: Real Relief for Drivers Act" to address excess administrative costs incurred by public authorities for the collection of toll payments and to ensure repeat toll evaders pay such costs; creates the New York and New Jersey toll and fees reduction task force to examine and evaluate the efficacy of current payment processing procedures and systems, and to provide recommendations to increase efficacy and reduce tolls and administrative fees.

Increases solar energy tax credits; implements a solar STAR credit; amends provisions relating to the role of municipalities in siting of major renewable energy facilities.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution congratulates Johnny Macko, a junior swimmer from Wellington C. Mepham High School, for winning two state titles at the NYSPHSAA Boys Varsity Swimming and Diving Championships. The bill formally recognizes his achievements in the 200 Freestyle and 500 Freestyle events, which set personal bests and met All-American standards. It also acknowledges the success of his team and the leadership of Head Coach Mike Miller, with copies of the resolution to be sent to both Macko and the coach. This legislative action serves as an official commendation rather than creating new laws or funding.

Maddy summaryThis bill asks Governor Kathy Hochul to officially recognize March 2026 as Youth Art Month in New York State. It does not change laws or create new programs, but rather designates a specific month for public awareness of art education. The resolution highlights the importance of visual arts in schools and encourages community support for art programs. It is a ceremonial measure that directs the governor to issue a proclamation for the observance.

Maddy summaryThis bill asks the Governor of New York to officially designate March 23, 2026, as Pakistan-American Heritage Day in the state. It directly affects the Pakistani-American community in New York by creating a formal day to recognize their cultural contributions and heritage. The resolution directs copies to the Governor, the Pakistani Consulate in New York City, and the American Pakistani Advocacy Group for their records. This is a ceremonial measure that does not change laws or require funding, but rather serves to acknowledge and celebrate the Pakistani-American community's presence and achievements in New York State.

Maddy summaryThis bill asks Governor Kathy Hochul to officially declare March 15-21, 2026, as Agriculture Week in New York State. The resolution recognizes the importance of farming to the state's economy and food supply, and it aligns with National Agriculture Week celebrations. It does not create new laws or change existing policies, but rather serves as a formal acknowledgment of agriculture's contributions to New York. The bill is a ceremonial measure intended to honor farmers and promote awareness of the agricultural industry.

Maddy summaryThis bill asks the Governor of New York to officially designate March 19, 2026, as West Point Day in the state. It directly affects Governor Kathy Hochul by requesting her signature on a proclamation recognizing the historical significance of the United States Military Academy at West Point. The resolution highlights the academy's role in American history and its contributions to national defense and leadership. It does not change any laws or policies but serves as a ceremonial acknowledgment of the institution's legacy.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a Senate Resolution that formally acknowledges and commends New York Maple Producers for hosting their Annual Maple Weekends on March 21-22, 2026, and March 28-29, 2026. The resolution highlights the importance of maple syrup production to New York's agricultural heritage, noting that the state is home to over 2,000 maple sugar makers and produces more than 825,000 gallons of syrup annually. It recognizes the producers' efforts in welcoming families to their farms to learn about syrup production and enjoy related activities and products. The resolution concludes by directing that copies be sent to the maple producers as a formal gesture of appreciation.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution congratulates the Pavilion/York Air Rifle Team and their head coach Jenny Harkins for winning the New York State Rifle Invitational Championship in the Three-Position Event on March 1, 2026. The resolution formally recognizes the team's achievement by pausing legislative proceedings to offer congratulations and directing copies of the document to the team members, coach, and school administrators. It highlights the athletes' specific accomplishments, including individual perfect scores and undefeated league performance, while acknowledging the value of athletic competition in developing character and discipline.