Sen. Kristen Gonzalez

Maddy summaryS 4547 establishes a dedicated "diversion part" in every county court to handle judicial diversion cases for eligible defendants. It directly affects individuals charged with specific class B, C, D, or E felonies (excluding certain serious offenses like class A felonies) who have a qualifying mental health or substance use diagnosis. The bill requires a clinical evaluation by licensed professionals to determine if diversion is appropriate, including recommendations for evidence-based treatment (like counseling or medication) instead of incarceration. It repeals outdated provisions about alcohol/substance use evaluations and clarifies eligibility criteria for this program.

Establishes the position of chief artificial intelligence officer and such person's functions, powers and duties; including, but not limited to, developing statewide artificial intelligence policies and governance, coordinating the activities of any and all state departments, boards, commissions, agencies and authorities performing any functions using artificial intelligence tools; makes related provisions.

Maddy summaryS 415 establishes minimum cash wage requirements for "miscellaneous industry workers" in New York, including car wash attendants, nail salon staff, dog groomers, tour guides, and valet attendants. It mandates that employers pay these workers a specific hourly cash wage before tips, with rates varying by location: $12.77 in NYC starting 2026, $11.50 in other areas, and phased increases through 2029. The bill also includes a "one fair wage reimbursement credit" to help employers offset costs. The law modifies existing wage orders to ensure total pay (cash wage + tips) meets the state minimum wage, applying only to workers covered under specific state regulations for non-food service industries.

Establishes an election security navigator program within the state board of elections to provide assistance for local boards of elections in mitigating cybersecurity threats, improving physical and operational preparedness, and enhancing public confidence in the integrity of elections.

Establishes a gender-affirming care access program to provide support and increase access to gender-affirming care including certain medical and surgical care.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (J 1603) memorializes Governor Hochul to officially designate April 2026 as "Workplace Violence Prevention Month" in New York State. It does not create new laws but requests the Governor issue a proclamation to raise public awareness about preventing workplace violence, particularly highlighting healthcare workers' elevated risk (five times higher than other industries). The resolution references April as the nationally recognized Workplace Violence Prevention Awareness Month and directs copies to the Governor and medical associations. It is a ceremonial measure focused on awareness, not policy change.

Maddy summaryThis resolution requests Governor Hochul to designate April 6, 2026, as Tartan Day in New York State, recognizing Scottish heritage and contributions. It does not create new laws or affect specific groups, but formally asks the Governor to acknowledge Scottish-American cultural ties through a ceremonial proclamation. The resolution highlights historical connections between Scotland and New York, including Scottish roots of many early American leaders and cultural traditions like tartan. As a non-binding memorial resolution, it has no direct policy impact beyond the symbolic recognition.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (S 1633) asks Governor Hochul to designate February 23, 2026, as "Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Day" in New York State. It does not create new laws or allocate funding but formally requests the Governor issue a proclamation to recognize the day. The resolution highlights statistics on domestic violence prevalence across diverse communities and the state's high demand for related services. It is a symbolic action intended to raise public awareness, not a policy measure with direct implementation.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (J 1607) requesting Governor Hochul to issue a proclamation designating March 2026 as American Red Cross Month in New York State. It does not create new laws or affect any specific group; it is a symbolic gesture to honor the Red Cross's humanitarian work. The resolution cites the organization's 145-year history, disaster response, blood services, military support, and community training programs. As a procedural resolution, it has no binding effect beyond the Governor's discretionary proclamation.

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.