Sen. Siela Bynoe

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution commemorates the 101st birthday of Malcolm X, recognizing him as a significant advocate for human rights and an influential African American leader. The bill directs the legislative body to pause its proceedings to honor his life, detailing his history from his birth in Omaha to his work as a minister, his founding of civil rights organizations, and his assassination in 1965. By adopting this measure, the legislature formally acknowledges his contributions to the struggle for equality without imposing any new laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution honors the life and legacy of Marilyn D. Mosley, a Brooklyn educator and community leader who passed away on May 4, 2026. The bill formally recognizes her contributions to public education, local government, and progressive political advocacy through a series of "whereas" clauses detailing her career and achievements. It concludes by directing the legislative body to pause its proceedings to pay tribute to her and instructs that a copy of the resolution be sent to her family.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 2102 formally recognizes the 50th anniversary of InterFaith Works of Central New York, an organization based in Syracuse. The bill does not change any laws or policies but instead serves as a ceremonial tribute to the group's five decades of service in refugee resettlement, interfaith dialogue, and community support. It directs the state legislature to pause its proceedings to honor the organization and requires sending a copy of the resolution to InterFaith Works.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors the life of Ronald F. Lipton, a community leader and public servant who passed away in January 2026. The bill formally acknowledges his contributions to civic engagement, public service, and local governance throughout his life. It directs the legislative body to pause its proceedings to pay tribute to Lipton and sends a copy of the resolution to his family.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes Boards of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) to create a workers' compensation reserve fund, joining school districts and other entities that are already permitted to do so. The legislation allows these organizations to set aside money specifically for paying workers' compensation benefits and covering the costs of running their self-insurance programs. Funds in the reserve must be kept separate from other finances and can only be used for authorized claims or administrative expenses, with any excess money at the end of a fiscal year allowed to be transferred to other approved funds or applied to the next year's budget.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits utility companies from terminating residential electricity or heat service during forecasts of extreme temperatures - specifically when the National Weather Service predicts 95°F or higher (heat index) or 32°F or lower. It directly affects residential customers in New York, preventing service cutoffs on the day of such forecasts or during any subsequent holiday or weekend. Key provisions require utilities to maintain service during these periods and align with existing cold-weather protections for vulnerable residents. The law applies immediately upon enactment and does not override stricter existing utility settlements.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires licensed cosmetologists and barbers to complete an eight-hour mental health first aid training program. The training teaches participants to recognize symptoms of mental health crises (like anxiety or depression), safely de-escalate situations, and refer clients to appropriate community resources. All current licensees and new applicants must complete this certified training to maintain or obtain their licenses. The law aims to enhance community safety by equipping beauty professionals - who interact closely with the public - with skills to support individuals in mental health distress.

Requires school districts to establish a method by which a parent may request a local library card for their minor child on the school registration form.

Provides that any volunteer agency who is granted state aid by the office of addiction services and supports or pursuant to a contract with a local governmental unit shall receive the full amount of such state aid within sixty days from approval; provides that volunteer agencies shall have two years to spend such aid.

Creates a public education program concerning water use reduction for communities which rely on groundwater for water supply; expands the water conservation manual; requires smart controllers for automatic irrigation systems.