Sen. Steve Rhoads

Requires the superintendent of financial services to examine the Green Bank at least once every calendar year; requires that a copy of such examination shall be furnished to NYSERDA, the state comptroller, the senate and the assembly.

Maddy summaryThis bill, S 2710, changes retirement rules for New York City police officers by reducing the required service time for full retirement benefits from 22 years to 20 years. It specifically applies to members of the New York City Police Pension Fund, allowing them to retire with full benefits after 20 years of service instead of the previous 22-year requirement. The bill amends three sections of the retirement law to update definitions, benefits, and eligibility, ensuring NYC police officers can access normal retirement benefits at the 20-year mark. This is a direct policy change affecting NYC police officers' retirement timelines, with no broader application to other public safety workers.

Expands agricultural tourism to include, but not be limited to, the production and processing of grapes, grains or other crops used to create alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages in an on-farm brewery, winery, cidery, meadery or distillery, the production and processing of fiber such as sheep or alpaca wool, and the production of processed food commodities, including but not limited to ice cream, jams, baked goods and similar items.

Enacts the "responsible implementation of e-bike regulations for safe cycling (RIDERS) act; defines "electric skateboard" and "electric personal mobility device"; requires the registration of all electric personal mobility devices, including, but not limited to, bicycles with electric assist, electric scooters and electric skateboards; makes related provisions.

Establishes the division of the crime victims' statewide advocate to represent crime victims' and witnesses' legal interests during discovery and trial and assist with victim compensation applications.

Establishes a distinctive plate honoring the Eagle Scouts for which the regular registration fee will apply plus an initial one time service charge of $25.

Enacts the credit for rural energy infrastructure act of 2025, to provide tax credits for certain activities expanding energy infrastructure into unserved rural areas.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a state-funded grant program to help small farms recover after natural disasters. It directly affects small farms selling produce with annual sales under $100,000, providing grants to cover the cost of replanting crops destroyed by events like floods or storms. Grants are capped at $10,000 per farm and require an application reviewed by the Department of Agriculture. Funding depends on annual legislative appropriations, and grants are only available when money is allocated. The program takes effect April 1, 2025.

Relates to the term "income" for purposes of the school tax relief exemption; adds 401(k) and 403(b) accounts to the list of eligible income deductions when determining Enhanced STAR eligibility.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires all employers in child protective services (CPS) to provide mental health support services to their employees. It specifically mandates access to resources like trauma-focused therapy, EMDR treatment, counseling, and informational support to address workplace stress and secondary trauma. The law directly affects CPS workers - such as caseworkers and supervisors - who face high-stress, emotionally demanding situations daily. The key provision is a legal obligation for employers to cover these services, aiming to improve employee well-being and retention. (4 sentences)