Sen. Siela Bynoe

Enables public libraries to access employment preparation education (EPE) funds to provide adult literacy education; sets aside one million dollars to be awarded through a competitive grant process; provides that half of such appropriation shall be set aside for libraries serving a population of one million or more.

Requires the office for the prevention of domestic violence provide informational materials on removing an abuser's access to a smart home and the use of other technology for harassment.

Maddy summaryS 399 makes it illegal for most people to possess or sell "pistol converters" (devices that turn semi-automatic pistols into machine guns) or "convertible pistols" (specific semi-automatic pistols that can be easily converted using common tools like screwdrivers). The bill defines convertible pistols as those with a "cruciform trigger bar" that can be altered with household tools, excluding most standard semi-automatic pistols. It criminalizes selling or transporting convertible pistols (a class D felony), with exemptions for police, military personnel, and licensed gunsmiths. The law aims to prevent easy conversion of standard firearms into automatic weapons under state law.

Enacts the "beauty justice act"; provides for the regulation of ingredients in personal care products and cosmetics; prohibits the sale of personal care products and cosmetic products containing certain restricted products.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors the life and legacy of Dorothy E. Reid, a civil rights activist who was a plaintiff in the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case. The bill commemorates the 72nd anniversary of the Supreme Court's decision against school segregation and recognizes Reid's contributions as a young plaintiff and her subsequent 28-year career in New York public service. By adopting this resolution, the legislative body formally pauses its proceedings to acknowledge her achievements and transmits a copy of the document to her family.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 1896 formally acknowledges the death of Eliot Engel, a former New York State Assemblyman and U.S. Congressman who passed away on April 10, 2026. The resolution honors his 44 years of public service, highlighting his roles as a human rights advocate, committee chair, and long-time representative of the Bronx and surrounding areas. It concludes by directing that a copy of the resolution be sent to Engel's family as a tribute to his life and legacy.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a Senate resolution that officially recognizes May 2026 as Apraxia Awareness Month in New York State. It aims to increase public understanding of Childhood Apraxia of Speech, a neurological disorder that affects a child's ability to coordinate speech movements despite having normal language comprehension. The resolution encourages schools, workplaces, and communities to hold events and wear blue during the month to support affected children, their families, and healthcare professionals. The text is symbolic and does not create new laws, funding, or mandatory requirements.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 1917 asks Governor Kathy Hochul to officially declare May 10, 2026, as Golf Day in New York State. This symbolic designation honors the sport's significant role in the state's economy, environment, and community life, citing its contribution to jobs, tourism, and charitable fundraising. The resolution does not create new laws or change any existing regulations but serves as a formal recognition of the golf industry's value to New York.

Maddy summaryThis bill asks the Governor of New York to officially declare June 2026 as Dairy Month. It highlights the state's dairy industry, noting that New York has over 2,800 farms and produces significant amounts of milk, yogurt, and cottage cheese. The resolution aims to recognize the economic and nutritional contributions of dairy farmers and their products to the state. Once adopted, the text will be sent to the Governor for her proclamation.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors William Barnabas McHenry, a distinguished attorney and philanthropist who passed away in June 2025 at age 95. The bill formally acknowledges his decades of service to the Hudson Valley, including his leadership roles with organizations like Boscobel House and Gardens, the Hudson River Valley Greenway, and the Open Space Institute. It also notes his contributions to restoring landmarks such as the Tower of Victory and supporting numerous cultural institutions. The resolution pauses legislative proceedings to salute his life and directs that a copy be sent to his family.