Sen. Jeremy Cooney

Maddy summaryThis is a symbolic Senate Resolution (not binding legislation) commending Open Space Institute and Parks & Trails New York for hosting their 20th Annual Park & Public Lands Advocacy Day on February 25, 2026. It honors these organizations for their work protecting over 2.5 million acres of land and promoting 2,000+ miles of trails across New York. The resolution has no policy impact - it simply expresses the legislature's appreciation through a formal commendation. It directly affects no individuals or entities beyond the named organizations receiving the recognition.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution (J 1620) adopted by the New York State Senate to honor the late Denis Michael Troy, a longtime Orangetown Councilman and Rockland County Legislator. It expresses the Senate's "profound regret" over his death and commemorates his 30+ years of community service, including his work on the Orangetown Council, advocacy for local services, and roles in organizations like the Ancient Order of Hibernians. The resolution has no policy impact - it is purely a formal expression of condolence to his family and community. It was adopted by the Senate on February 25, 2026.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows cannabis distributors to file their annual tax returns electronically instead of submitting quarterly reports. It directly affects businesses licensed to distribute cannabis products under New York's tax law, giving them the option to simplify their reporting by submitting one annual electronic filing. The key provision changes the requirement from quarterly filings (due by the 20th day after February, May, August, and November) to an annual filing due by the 20th day after December 31st. This reduces administrative burden for eligible distributors while maintaining the same tax compliance requirements.

Enacts the "New York affordable drug manufacturing act" to direct the commissioner of health to enter into partnerships to increase competition, lower prices, and address shortages in the market for generic prescription drugs, to reduce the cost of prescription drugs for public and private purchasers, taxpayers, and consumers, and to increase patient access to affordable drugs.

Maddy summaryThis bill (S 9222) prohibits pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) from owning, operating, or controlling pharmacies directly or indirectly. It directly affects PBMs and any entities that currently hold both pharmacy and PBM operations. The law requires violators to divest from pharmacy ownership within three years of the law taking effect, as defined under New York’s Public Health Law. The bill aims to separate pharmacy operations from PBM management to prevent potential conflicts of interest.

Maddy summaryBill S 8084 establishes a statewide public registry for individuals convicted of felony or misdemeanor animal cruelty offenses. These individuals, defined as "animal abusers," would be required to register with the state, providing personal and conviction details, with annual renewals for a specified period or for life in some cases. The registry would be publicly accessible, and failure to register or providing false information would be a felony. Additionally, pet stores and animal shelters would be denied licenses if the applicant is on this registry, and no person would be allowed to sell or transfer an animal to someone listed on the registry. Local animal welfare organizations would also be notified of registered animal abusers in their area.

Increases the penalties for operating a snowmobile while intoxicated, doubles penalties for operators having .18 of one per centum or more by weight of alcohol in their blood, breath, urine, or saliva, and includes other operating while intoxicated convictions in sentencing considerations.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors Investigator Michael Theetge of the Chemung County Sheriff's Office for receiving the Order of the Blue Heart Award from Wounded Blue, a national organization supporting law enforcement officers injured on duty. The resolution formally commends his 14-year service, leadership as SWAT commander, and recovery from a severe March 2024 on-duty injury, directing that a copy be sent to him as a token of legislative respect.

Establishes performance-based service standards and oversight mechanisms for gas and electric utility customer assistance centers to ensure high-quality customer care, emergency response capacity, and consumer protection.

Maddy summaryThis is a commemorative Senate Resolution (J 1558) honoring Margaret D. Williams, a Coney Island community leader and member of the doo-wop group The Cookies, who passed away in January 2026. The resolution recognizes her musical legacy - including chart-topping hits like "Chains" and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction - and her decades of community service, including 33 years with NYC Health and her work with the Coney Island History Project. It serves as a symbolic tribute from the legislature, expressing condolences to her family and celebrating her life’s impact. As a procedural resolution, it does not create new laws or affect any policies.