Sen. Peter Oberacker

Maddy summaryS 1308 requires a two-thirds vote in both the state legislature and local governing bodies to pass bills that create new taxes, increase existing taxes, or extend tax collection periods. This applies to all tax-related bills except those resulting from home rule requests under state constitution provisions. The bill directly affects state legislators and local government officials (like city councils or county boards) who must secure supermajority approval for tax changes. It does not alter current tax rates but changes the legislative process needed to enact or raise them. The law takes effect immediately upon passage.

Requires bills containing an unfunded mandate for a county or municipality to be referred to the state comptroller for opinion before being certified.

Provides a state income tax exemption for volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers who have qualifying service in the taxable year for which such exemption is sought.

Establishes no polling place shall be located on the premises of any public or private elementary or secondary school or a school for preschool children.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires all visitors entering New York correctional facilities to undergo body scanning before entry, and mandates that incarcerated individuals be scanned upon intake and after visits. It specifies that facilities must offer alternative screening methods for medical reasons or if someone declines scanning, though visitation may be denied for non-medical refusal. Regulations will define when scanning is required, including accommodations for medical needs and prohibiting harassment for choosing alternatives. The law takes effect immediately, with related public health law changes set to be repealed alongside it.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires New York taxpayers to register to vote when filing income tax returns or property tax bills by checking a box on the form. It mandates a sworn statement confirming U.S. citizenship, 30-day residency in the listed address before the next election, and eligibility, alongside an option to select political party affiliation. The tax department must electronically share this data with election boards, who then send eligible individuals written notices explaining voter registration options and verification requirements. The bill directly affects taxpayers filing income or property taxes, particularly those changing addresses through real estate transfers.

Requires the Empire State Development corporation's broadband program office to assist in the provision and expansion of broadband internet access service and to address inequities in the availability of such service.

Maddy summaryS 5931 delays the enforcement of regulations requiring truck manufacturers to sell more zero-emission vehicles. It prevents the Department of Environmental Conservation from implementing rules that would have forced manufacturers to increase zero-emission truck sales before January 1, 2027. The bill directly affects medium- and heavy-duty truck manufacturers by extending the timeline for compliance. This policy change postpones the effective date of the advanced clean trucks rules without altering the 2027 deadline.

Establishes student loan repayment accounts; authorizes employers to establish student loan repayment accounts and provide matching funds up to $5000 a year; establishes tax deductions for participating employers.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows hunters to use crossbows for taking wildlife under specific conditions. It removes the prior ban on 12- to 13-year-olds hunting with crossbows (previously prohibited under §11-0929), while maintaining age requirements for other hunting methods. The bill sets technical standards for crossbows, including a minimum 100-pound draw weight, 14-inch arrow length, and 24-inch overall length. It affects all hunters in New York who use crossbows for deer, bear, or small game, requiring a bowhunting privilege and compliance with these equipment rules.