Sen. Alexis Weik

Maddy summaryBill S 7665 proposes to exempt the Massapequa Union Free School District from state regulations regarding the use of indigenous names, mascots, and logos. If enacted, this bill would allow the Massapequa school district to continue using such imagery, bypassing existing state rules that restrict their use. The exemption would specifically apply to regulations such as part 123 of title 8 of the New York codes, rules and regulations.

Creates the blue light emergency phones grant program for the purpose of public safety; directs a study be conducted to report upon the impact of such program.

Prohibits the diminution of health insurance benefits of public employee retirees and their dependents or reducing the employer's contributions for such insurance; defines employers to include the state, municipalities, school districts, and public authorities and commissions.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits anyone under 21 from purchasing or possessing kratom products. Businesses selling kratom must verify customers' ages using government-issued ID (like driver's licenses or passports), display a clear sign stating the age ban, and use an ID scanning system to confirm identity - without sharing scanned data with third parties. The health commissioner is also required to study kratom's health risks and benefits, reporting findings within one year. These rules directly affect underage buyers, kratom retailers, and enforcement agencies.

Maddy summaryBill S 1189 establishes new licensure requirements for entities providing fiscal intermediary services for personal assistance programs. Beginning April 1, 2027, these fiscal intermediaries must obtain a license from the commissioner, a process that includes an application fee and an assessment of their character, competence, and compliance. The bill also broadens the definition of fiscal intermediaries, modifies their annual reporting obligations, and creates a confidential state registry for personal assistants that these intermediaries must maintain. This legislation directly affects fiscal intermediaries, personal assistants, and consumers utilizing these services.

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.

Relates to an increase in punishment for certain actions against on-duty auxiliary police officers such as criminally negligent homicide, assault or menacing of such officer.

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 summaryS 3380 would change New York State and New York City to observe daylight saving time year-round, eliminating the current practice of switching to standard time in the fall. It amends state and city laws to adopt federal daylight saving time rules (15 USC 260a) as the permanent standard, provided federal law permits year-round daylight saving. The bill would take effect only after neighboring states (Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania) pass similar legislation, or immediately if they have already done so.

Requires each school district to provide interventions and special curricula for children with dyslexia or other phonological learning differences or disabilities.