Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Standing Committee on Agriculture first moved through a series of animal welfare bills, reporting all of them to the floor. The measures included bills on sentencing for aggravated cruelty to animals, additional aggravated cruelty provisions, penalties for animal abandonment, requiring owners or lessors of vacated properties to inspect for abandoned animals, and restricting surgical depopulation procedures on dogs and pets. Members generally expressed support, and each bill advanced by motion and voice vote with no noted opposition or recusals; one additional bill was held by the sponsor. The committee then heard from Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard Ball, who gave an update on state and federal agriculture issues. He discussed the Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center, federal farm bill negotiations, specialty crops, labor and H-2A reform, dairy margin coverage concerns, possible cuts to EQIP, organic certification funding, trade and USMCA review, tariffs and input costs, and disaster concerns affecting Long Island seafood producers. He also highlighted state programs such as Nourish New York, Dairy Modernization, farm-to-school efforts, and workforce development initiatives. Members asked questions about raw milk sales, H-2A labor, solar siting on farmland, farm-to-school expansion, tariff impacts, and support for farmers facing federal cuts and rising costs. Ball said raw milk sales remain limited to licensed on-farm sales with inspections and warnings, supported reform of H-2A and broader labor policy, urged protecting prime and actively farmed land from solar development, and emphasized the need to preserve food access programs like Nourish New York and farmers market nutrition benefits. The meeting ended after the commissioner’s testimony and member discussion, with no further formal action beyond the earlier bill reports.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate met on March 6, 2026, approved the prior day’s journal, and then proceeded through the day’s calendar of bills. A number of measures were passed, including bills amending the Corporation Law, Environmental Conservation Law, Public Officers Law, Executive Law, Cannabis Law, Vehicle and Traffic Law, Penal Law, Labor Law, Public Health Law, Real Property and Actions and Proceedings Law, General Business Law, and Agriculture and Markets Law. Most passed with broad support, though several had recorded negative votes from a small group of senators. One bill on the Legislative Law, Calendar 340, was initially set aside for the controversial calendar. During consideration of Calendar 340, Senator Lanza raised a non-germane amendment offered by Senator Rolison that would have created utility bill tax and surcharge holidays and a green energy tax holiday. The Chair ruled the amendment non-germane, and the Senate upheld that ruling by a show of hands, with 22 in favor of overruling the Chair. The bill in chief was then restored to the non-controversial calendar. Senators May and Krueger spoke in support of the underlying Legislative Law bill, describing it as a procedural reform to make it easier for the Senate and Assembly to reconcile differences between versions of bills, similar to congressional practice. The bill passed 42-1, with several senators recorded in the negative. The Senate then completed the calendar and adjourned until Tuesday, March 10 at 3:00 p.m.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Finance Committee met on March 5 and moved a series of bills, with brief discussion on most measures and several members noting support for the proposals. Bills advanced included loan forgiveness and reimbursement for attorneys serving Indigenous clients (S161A), a study of lithium-ion battery fires and prevention (S257), annual housing and zoning reporting to the Department of State (F919A), a temporary state pesticide commission (S1368), an emergency repair pilot program for hazardous building code violations (S1838), a searchable veterans resources database (S2070), Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution (S2587), expanded fraud and tax-fraud provisions (S32), a NYSERDA rebate program for lithium-ion batteries for mobility devices (S3560), directing certain fines and penalties to a conservation enforcement account (S4033B), Veterans Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Day (S4152A), expansion of Fresh Connect to supermarkets and grocery stores (S4162), restrictions on executive-branch contracting during a hiring freeze (S473), real-property transfer documentation and forgery-related protections (S5177), changes to retirement beneficiary options after a beneficiary’s family offense conviction (S6750), and a deposit placement program for public monies (S8357). Several bills were described as addressing fraud, housing, veterans’ services, public safety, and commemorations, and members generally spoke in favor of the measures. A few bills drew more specific comments: supporters emphasized the importance of honoring Fred Korematsu and recognizing the injustice of Japanese American detention, and the fraud-related bill was framed as a response to white-collar tax fraud and government losses. The real-property bill was highlighted as a response to mortgage and deed fraud affecting homeowners. On the housing reporting bill, there were three negative votes, and on the pesticide commission bill there were two members without recommendation. The lithium-ion battery rebate bill also drew several negative votes, while most other measures passed with little or no opposition. By the end of the meeting, the committee had completed its agenda and announced it would resume more regular meetings, while noting that the state budget process would continue to affect scheduling.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Judiciary Committee chair opened by emphasizing that the committee would consider bills from any member, regardless of party, so long as they would make the judiciary more streamlined, efficient, and accessible. The committee then took up Senate Print 410, which would change how judges review jury awards in employment discrimination cases. The sponsor argued the bill would curb consistently low awards and reduce pressure on plaintiffs to settle, while a member raised concerns about limiting judicial review. After discussion, the bill was moved and reported to the floor, with one member recorded without rights. The committee next advanced Senate Bill 548, authorizing the sale of a specific parcel of Forest Preserve land associated with Camp Gabriels Correctional Facility, and Senate Print 887A, a Surrogates’ Court filing bill, with a suggested amendment clarifying that initial filings may not yet have a file number. It also reported Senate Print 947, barring residential landlords from charging fees for rent payments made by ACH or online systems, and Senate Print 1142, extending the statute of limitations for employment discrimination actions. Other measures reported included the homeowner protection program bill (2627A), skier and snowboarder duties bill (3209), a constitutional amendment on voter qualifications allowing eligible 17-year-olds to vote in primaries if they will turn 18 by the general election (3231), and a bill increasing county court judges in certain jurisdictions (4836A), which was referred to Finance. Additional bills advanced were Senate Print 5089 creating a residential condominium owner bill of rights, Senate Print 5288 on the proper form of exhibits in civil practice, and Senate Print 9037 exempting senior citizens from jury service, with discussion noting the bill’s opt-in feature for seniors who wish to continue serving. Most measures were approved by voice vote with little or no opposition, and the meeting concluded after all listed bills were reported onward.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Committee on Commerce, Economic Development, and Small Business held its first meeting of the 2006 legislative session, chaired by Senator April Baskin, with Senator Dean Murray and other members present. The committee took up six bills focused on small business, economic development, and related regulatory issues. Senators generally expressed support for the committee’s mission and for measures aimed at helping businesses grow and reducing red tape. The committee reported Senate Bill 1052, directing the Department of Economic Development to move the Central New York Welcome Center to the Equal Rights Heritage Center in Auburn, to the calendar, with one opposed. Senate Bill 1613A, directing plans for mixed-use development and redesign on part of the Haremont campus, was reported to finance. Senate Bill 2051, allowing bed and breakfast establishments to sell cider, liquor, beer, and wine, was reported to the calendar after members said it had passed the Senate in prior years and supported it as a small business measure. The committee also advanced Senate Bill 3561, which would require a study of kitchen incubators in New York State; Senator Borrello spoke in favor, citing a successful incubator example in his district, and Senator Zellner voted without recommendation, sending the bill to finance. Senate Bill 6010, creating more access to small business loans for micro-businesses, was reported to finance with broad support. Finally, Senate Bill 7332, establishing a small business regulatory nexus to provide regulatory information to small businesses, was reported to the calendar as a transparency and anti-red tape measure. The meeting concluded after all legislative items were acted on and members were reminded to submit voting sheets.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Standing Committee on Ethics and Internal Governance met for its first meeting of the year on March 4 at noon, with Chair Shelley Mayer and Ranking Member Steve Rhoads emphasizing a collegial approach and a shared interest in transparency, efficiency, and effective government. The committee then considered several ethics and lobbying-related bills. On S-374, relating to lobbying for the confirmation of persons to state office, Senator Rhoads raised concern that the bill could chill individual citizens from sending emails or letters about nominees if such activity triggered lobbyist registration. The chair said the bill was intended to target organizations and entities spending significant time and money to influence nominations, and noted the sponsor might refine the language. The bill was moved forward, with Mayer voting aye and Rhoads voting nay. The committee also advanced S-224A, which would raise the threshold for small not-for-profits subject to lobbying reporting requirements from $5,000 to $10,000, and S4039A, which would prohibit certain persons from receiving compensation for legal, consulting, or similar work for industrial development agencies, economic assistance corporations, or state and local authorities, while also addressing consultant disclosure. Rhoads supported S-224A and opposed S4039A. Finally, the committee approved S5843, which would require all lobbying filings to be submitted electronically; Rhoads opposed it, saying filing rules should allow as many compliance options as possible, while Mayer said most filers can already do so electronically. All bills were moved to the floor, and the meeting adjourned shortly thereafter.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, a moment of silent reflection, approval of the prior journal, and several ceremonial introductions. Senator Mayer welcomed students and alumni from the New York Alliance for Early College Pathways, highlighting early college opportunities for high school students. Senator Zellner introduced members of the Buffalo Professional Firefighters Union Local 282 and honored fallen Buffalo firefighter Jayson Arno, with remarks praising firefighters’ service and sacrifice. The chamber then took up Senate Resolution 1489, commemorating the 182nd anniversary of Dominican Republic independence. Senator Sepúlveda presented the resolution and spoke about Dominican history, sovereignty, the Dominican diaspora in New York, and the role of Consul General Jesús Vásquez Martínez. Senators Jackson, Weber, Bailey, and others spoke in support, emphasizing the contributions of Dominican New Yorkers. The resolution was adopted and opened for co-sponsorship. The Senate next moved through the calendar, passing a series of bills on insurance, public health, education, social services, tax, penal law, and workers’ compensation. Several bills were approved by wide margins, including measures related to vaccination policy and education law; Senator Weik opposed the public health/vaccination bill, while Senator Mayer defended it as science-based. Senator Fernandez explained and secured passage of a workers’ compensation bill that would raise a pre-authorization threshold, clarify medical treatment guidelines, and restore access to out-of-network providers for injured workers. The only contentious item was Calendar 117, a bill amending the Executive Law related to climate resilience and the Office of Resilience. Senator Walczyk offered an amendment to repeal the statewide cap-and-invest program, but the chair ruled it nongermane; the Senate upheld that ruling on a 21-aye vote. Senators Harckham, Borrello, Krueger, Lanza, Martins, and Gianaris spoke at length on climate policy, energy costs, and the bill’s merits. The bill ultimately passed 51-9. The Senate then adjourned until Thursday, March 5 at 11:00 a.m.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Standing Committee on Energy and Telecommunications met for its first March meeting, chaired by Senator Kevin Parker. Members discussed a short agenda of energy-related bills focused on grid modernization, interconnection studies, geothermal development, microgrids for extreme weather resilience, and a proposed Grid Modernization Commission. Senators Mattera and Walczyk were absent but had voting sheets submitted; Senator Kavanagh joined later in the meeting. The committee advanced several measures: S.1227A, directing the Department of Public Service to study deployment of the energy interconnection process into the electrical grid, was moved to third reading; S.2708, advancing grid enhancement technologies, was also sent to third reading. S.2486A, creating geothermal energy generation facilities, was advanced to the Finance Committee, as was S.4205 on microgrids for extreme weather and public security, and S.4590 establishing the New York State Grid Modernization Commission. During the votes, some members were recorded as voting without recommendation, including Senator Walczyk on multiple bills and Senator Hinchey on the geothermal bill. No testimony or substantive debate was presented beyond brief procedural questions, and the meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, approved the prior day’s journal, and then recognized several guest groups, including the Shenendehowa High School girls varsity cross country team and tennis champion Jolie Chichak, as well as the Downsville Central School Student Council. Senator Tedisco introduced the Shenendehowa athletes, highlighting their state and federation championships and strong academic records, and Senator Oberacker introduced the Downsville students. The chamber extended courtesies to the guests. The Senate then moved through the calendar, passing a series of bills and resolutions. Among the measures approved were a bill designating Overdose Awareness Day, a real property tax bill, a public authorities bill, several education-related bills, a private housing finance bill, a workers’ compensation bill, and a labor law bill. Some items were laid aside before later being taken up, including the cannabis bill and the environmental conservation bill. Votes were largely unanimous or near-unanimous, with a few recorded negatives on certain bills. The most extensive debate centered on Calendar 261, Senator May’s environmental conservation bill concerning renewable energy installations and transmission on state reforestation lands. Senator Walczyk and others questioned whether the bill would allow solar, wind, battery storage, tree cutting, herbicide use, and reduced environmental review, while supporters argued the bill was mainly about transmission corridors, climate goals, and preserving flexibility for DEC oversight and mitigation. After debate, the bill was restored to the non-controversial calendar and passed 42-13. The Senate also passed Calendar 353, Senator Ramos’s labor law bill addressing class action wage recovery and statutory damages. Supporters said it would clarify the law so workers can recover full wages in class actions, while opponents warned it could encourage litigation against small businesses over technical payroll errors. The bill passed 47-8. The Senate then completed the calendar and adjourned until March 4, 2026, with intervening days as legislative days.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Banks Committee met with Chair James Sanders Jr. and members including Senators Brisport, Borrello, and newly introduced Senator Eric Botcher. The chair emphasized the committee’s willingness to debate and revise bills, with several members noting the value of open dialogue and bipartisan cooperation on banking issues affecting unbanked and underbanked New Yorkers. The committee considered five bills. S.70 (mortgage loan services) drew opposition from one member over its private right of action, with concerns that litigation would raise costs and make mortgages less affordable; it was nevertheless moved and reported out. S.2027 would create a banking development district working group; supporters said the program needs an overhaul and more funding, and the bill was moved and referred to finance. S.2327 would dedicate 10% of fines and penalties imposed by the Department of Financial Services to a community development financial institution fund; it was reported out and referred to finance. S.3177 would regulate commercial finance licenses and was also voted out and referred to finance. The final bill, S.3615, would support minority depository institutions establishing home or branch offices in unbanked or underbanked communities. A co-sponsor highlighted that rural areas also face banking access problems and praised the bill as a nonpartisan effort. The committee approved the bill and referred it to finance. The meeting concluded with adjournment after all listed bills were acted on.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Internet Technology Committee met on February 25 at 12:10 with Senator Gonzalez chairing and Senator Stec as ranking member. The committee considered a series of bills focused on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, biometric surveillance, and related technology issues, including measures to create a Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer, require notices for generative AI systems, direct a state agency telework report, require multi-factor authentication for governmental entities, establish a Secure Our Data Act, study facial recognition technology, restrict biometric surveillance by law enforcement, and increase transparency for synthetic content and AI training data. Most bills were moved and reported out of committee, with several sent to the floor and others referred onward to the Finance Committee, Codes Committee, or reported without recommendation or with opposition noted. SB 933, SB 934A, SB 936A, SB 3699, SB 6954A, SB 6955A, SB 7263, and SB 9051 were reported to the floor; SB 1139, SB 1961A, and SB 9051 were sent to Finance; and SB 5609 was sent to Codes. Votes varied by bill, with some receiving no opposition and others drawing one or more nays or without-recommendation votes. Senator Gonzalez also briefly highlighted SB 9051, which would prohibit AI chatbots from using features considered unsafe for minors, describing it as a response to concerns about harm from companion bots and chatbot interactions with children. The chair noted work with the Attorney General’s office and Common Sense Media and said the bill was intended to promote regulation and accountability for companies deploying such systems. The meeting concluded with thanks to the ranking member and staff, and the committee adjourned.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Housing, Construction, and Community Development Committee met on February 25 and took up a series of housing-related bills, many of which had previously passed the Senate or been reported by the committee in prior sessions. Measures advanced included bills on NYCHA utility accountability, a small rental housing development initiative, uniform waiting list priorities for domestic violence survivors, protections for dependent children named in eviction papers, expansion of veterans’ housing preferences, inclusion of illegal conversions in the definition of harassment, repeal of obsolete rent formula language, inspection of major capital improvement rent increases and rent stabilization extensions, a community land trust acquisition fund, and an affordable independent senior housing assistance program. Most were reported to finance, Codes, or the floor, typically with some minority negative or “without recommendation” votes noted. The committee then returned to Senate Bill 6718B, sponsored by Senator Jackson, which would eliminate certain surcharges landlords may charge when tenants install appliances in rent-regulated housing. A guest speaker, Mr. Umberto Lopez, argued the bill would further squeeze landlords, especially small property owners, and warned that rising costs and regulation could lead to more units being taken off the market or “warehoused.” Committee members asked about the bill’s practical effect, including whether tenants could install appliances only with landlord approval and how current surcharge amounts are calculated for air conditioners, washers, dryers, and dishwashers. The chair explained that the bill would remove the ability to charge those existing fees, which are intended to cover wear and tear and utility-related costs. After the discussion, the committee voted to report S6718B, with minority negative votes recorded. The chair also noted an upcoming housing budget hearing later that day and repeatedly emphasized time limits during the meeting.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate opened with an invocation focused on memory, gratitude, and recognizing the unseen people who sustain public life, then approved the prior day’s journal and moved through introductions of guests, including domestic violence advocates, medical scholars, and student advocates. Senator Webb’s Resolution 1633, designating February 23, 2026 as Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Day, was adopted after remarks describing the scope of domestic violence in New York and the need for more survivor services. The chamber also adopted memorial Resolution 1558 honoring Margaret D. Williams, a vocalist, public servant, and community leader, and Resolution 1630 marking the 20th anniversary of Park and Public Lands Advocacy Day, with comments emphasizing the health and community benefits of parks and green space. The Senate then took up a series of bills on the calendar, passing measures including amendments to the Environmental Conservation Law, Labor Law, Education Law, Administrative Code of New York City, General Municipal Law, Tax Law, Cannabis Law, and Executive Law. Senator Ramos explained her support for the labor bill as the Anti-Waiver of Employment Rights Act, which would prevent employers from forcing workers to waive labor and human rights protections in applications or onboarding documents. Several bills were passed by wide margins, while some were laid aside for the day. The chamber also restored Senate Print 438 to the third reading calendar after reconsideration. A contested amendment to Calendar 234, Senator Comrie’s Executive Law bill, was ruled non-germane by the chair; Senator Walczyk appealed, arguing the amendment addressing the state energy code and all-electric building mandate was relevant to housing costs, but the Senate voted 20 to sustain the chair’s ruling. The underlying bill was then returned to the non-controversial calendar and passed. Finally, the Senate adopted a concurrent resolution electing two members to the Board of Regents, with supporters praising the nominees’ experience and critics objecting to the limited vetting time; the resolution passed 42-15. The Senate then adjourned until Thursday, February 26 at 11:00 a.m.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Women’s Issues Committee met on February 25, 2026, with a quorum present and Senators Baskin and Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick participating. The committee considered six bills focused on women’s health, maternal care, and lactation access. These included S.520 on ovarian cancer survivor screening rights, S.1305A on hospital care for mastectomy, lumpectomy, and lymph node dissection patients, S.6232 to make permanent a prenatal and postpartum informational mobile app currently being piloted by the governor, S.7048 on review of projects affecting maternal service availability, S.7731 on insurance coverage for a hospitalized birth parent’s inter-hospital transport to accompany an infant, and S.8542 to create a directory webpage for lactation accommodations in state-owned and state-leased buildings. Members generally expressed support for the measures, with brief discussion on the prenatal/postpartum app bill noting it had been operating as a pilot and would be made permanent. Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick also shared a personal comment in support of the infant transport coverage bill, describing the difficulty that would arise if a newborn needed NICU transport while the parent remained at another hospital. The chair emphasized the importance of the bills for birthing people and maternal health access. All six bills were approved by motion and vote. S.520 and S.6232 were advanced to finance, while S.1305A, S.7048, S.7731, and S.8542 were reported to first reading. The meeting then adjourned.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Agriculture Committee met and first took up five bills. It reported S.593 (land used in agricultural production), S.879A (the Garden Protection Act), S.3277 (transfer-on-death beneficiaries for farming implements), and S.4754 (creating an Office of Urban Agriculture). S.1529A, the Carbon Farming Act, was moved to the Finance Committee. The committee briefly discussed S.4754, with Senator Borrello asking about its status and members noting strong support for urban agriculture and food-system resilience; the bill was then reported to Finance by voice vote. The committee then heard from Julie Suarez, Associate Dean for Land Grant Affairs at Cornell CALS, who described Cornell’s role in research, extension, and public service across New York agriculture. She highlighted Cornell’s economic impact, growth in FFA participation including new urban chapters, dairy investment, and the potential of the maple industry, while emphasizing the need for continued agricultural science funding to address climate change, invasive species, and market challenges. She also pointed members to Cornell programs supporting food entrepreneurs, soil health, small farms, veterans entering agriculture, and community integrated pest management. Members asked questions about tick increases, with Suarez attributing them to deer, rodents, climate change, and invasive species, and said Cornell’s community IPM program offers landscaping and prevention guidance. She also explained Cornell’s land-grant and contract-college structure, including its statutory mission and state support. The meeting ended after members expressed interest in further outreach and informational sessions, and the committee adjourned.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Standing Committee on Crime Victims, Crime and Correction, chaired by Senator Salazar, met with Senators Harckham, Murray, and Bailey present, and considered 10 bills related to correctional policy, reentry, victim services, and public health in facilities. Measures discussed included educational access for incarcerated individuals, a phone call before transfer, expanded substance abuse programming for non-English speakers, commissary/canteen issues, a reentry pilot program, SNAP screening before release, discharge planning for wrongfully convicted individuals, public water testing transparency in correctional facilities, evidentiary standards in disciplinary hearings, and notification to victims about the address confidentiality program. The committee also corrected the record on one bill title during the meeting, clarifying that S. 1645 was actually a human trafficking assistance priority bill. Members generally expressed support for the bills, with brief comments highlighting the importance of reentry services, public health, and victim protections. Senator Harckham spoke in support of the water testing bill, citing PFAS and other contaminants, and Senator Murray praised the address confidentiality program bill. Most bills were moved by motion and seconded without substantive debate. All bills were reported out of committee, with several specifically reported to Finance. Senator Murray cast negative votes on some measures, while the rest were approved by the committee.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Standing Committee on Consumer Protection met for its second meeting of 2026, with Chair Rachel May noting National Consumer Protection Week and mentioning upcoming consumer fraud outreach and new online fraud-reporting tools from the Attorney General. The committee considered eight bills focused on consumer issues, including junk fees, arbitration transparency, gas stove labeling, retailer biometric tracking notices, credit monitoring services, and youth sports recording rights. Several bills were advanced with little or no opposition. S.363A on clear and conspicuous pricing for mandatory junk fees was reported to first reading. S.926 on arbitration organizations drew support for its transparency goals, but Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick raised concerns about confidentiality and a private right of action; it was still moved forward. S.1280B on gas stove health-risk labeling also advanced despite opposition from Senators Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick and Weber. S.2539A, requiring retailers to warn customers about electronic tracking and biometric data collection, was supported by Senator Myrie, who described it as a notice-only measure. The committee also advanced S.3078 on credit monitoring services and S.2517, though the transcript of the discussion on S.2517 was largely garbled. Chair May’s S.8666, which would prevent youth sports operators from barring parents from taking in-person photos or recordings of their children, prompted concerns from Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick about privacy, liability, and recordings by other parents; the chair responded that the bill includes limits for safety, court orders, privacy protections, and restricted areas. The meeting concluded after the bills were moved and voted on, with several reported to first reading or to another committee.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Standing Committee on Energy and Telecommunications, chaired by Senator Kevin Parker, considered a lengthy agenda of energy- and utility-related bills. The committee discussed measures on utility outage penalties for combination utilities, a NYSERDA-backed electric landscaping rebate program, stronger utility storm response compliance, a study on utility reporting of late payments to credit agencies, a used zero-emission vehicle rebate program, alternative fuels along the New York State Thruway, a property tax exemption for energy-related utility real property, a NYSERDA pilot microgrid at Glenwood Houses, a prohibition on PSC approval of certain utility rate increases, a sustainable aviation fuel tax credit, a usage monitoring program, and a bill on denial of increased utility rates and charges. Several bills prompted questions about who would pay for the programs or penalties, with sponsors and staff repeatedly stating that fines would be paid by utilities and that many programs would be funded through NYSERDA or existing appropriations, though members raised concerns about whether ratepayer funds or system benefits charges could be used. The electric landscaping rebate bill drew extended debate over whether its equipment definitions could allow companies to use battery equipment charged by generators, while the microgrid pilot and used EV rebate bills were defended as investments to improve reliability, lower peak costs, and build a secondary EV market. Senator May spoke in support of the Glenwood Houses microgrid and the related investment rationale. Most bills were advanced after motions and votes, often with some no votes or without-recommendation votes. The committee reported several measures to third reading, including the utility outage penalties bill, the utility storm response bill, the utility rate increase restriction bill, the usage monitoring program, and the denial of increased utility rates and charges bill. Other bills were advanced to the Finance Committee, Budget and Revenue Committee, or Local Government Committee, including the electric landscaping rebate program, the used EV rebate program, the alternative fuels bill, the tax exemption bill, the Glenwood Houses microgrid pilot, and the sustainable aviation fuel tax credit.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Standing Committee on Codes met with Chair Senator Zellnor Myrie presiding and noted that several majority members were absent due to blizzard-related travel disruptions, though quorum was established through submitted votes. The committee took up a series of bills, mostly criminal justice and public safety measures, including Senate Prints 205, 362, 490, 630, 1192, 1285A, 2491, 3909, 4757, and 6121. Senator Murray participated in moving bills while making clear that his seconding did not necessarily indicate support, and Senator Salazar joined partway through the meeting. Several bills drew discussion or opposition. Senator Murray strongly opposed Senate Print 362, warning that its added waiting period for firearm-related approval could endanger people seeking protection from domestic violence or stalking. On Senate Print 490, counsel and members discussed whether the bill’s language required an additional incident after age 13, and Murray ultimately voted without recommendation pending clarification. Senate Print 2491, addressing peremptory challenges, was described as important because of the racial history of such challenges, though Murray voted in the negative. Senate Print 3909, the Phoenix Act relating to domestic violence responses, also drew criticism from Murray over language he viewed as overly racial and political, though the committee advanced it. The committee also highlighted support for Senate Print 4757, which would codify the SNUG violence-prevention program in law; members praised its success in communities and noted it would reduce reliance on annual budget negotiations. Actions taken included reporting several bills, referring Senate Print 1192 and 4757 to finance, and reporting Senate Print 6121 with Senator Murray recorded without recommendation. The meeting concluded after all agenda items were addressed.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate convened, approved the prior Journal, and began with ceremonial recognitions before moving to legislative business. Members honored the Schenectady Belmont Pop Warner football team for winning the Eastern Regional Championship and being a top-ranked national team, with Senators Parker and Tedisco praising the players, coaches, and volunteers. The chamber then adopted Senate Resolution 1636, mourning the death of Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson and recognizing his lifetime of civil rights, labor, voting rights, and social justice advocacy. Multiple senators spoke in support, reflecting on his influence on politics, the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, and the message that “I am somebody.” After the resolution, the Senate took up the calendar and passed a series of bills, largely focused on health care, insurance, and public health. These included measures on municipal law, mental hygiene, correction law, executive law, and several insurance and public health bills addressing prescription drug pricing, pharmacy benefit managers, rebates, and anti-competitive drug practices. Senators Myrie, Borrello, Jackson, Fernandez, and others explained votes in support of transparency, patient access, and lowering drug costs; some members noted concerns about pharmacy deserts and corporate consolidation. Most bills passed with broad margins, though a few drew more opposition, including Calendar 304 on anti-competitive drug agreements. On Calendar 289, an amendment concerning domestic violence was ruled non-germane by the chair. Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick appealed, arguing the amendment would create a public registry for persistent domestic violence offenders to help protect potential victims. The Senate voted on the appeal, the ruling of the chair stood, and the bill was then restored to the non-controversial calendar and passed. The Senate then completed the calendar, had no further business, and adjourned until Wednesday, February 25 at 3:00 p.m.