Sen. Jessica Ramos

Prohibits spouses, domestic or romantic partners, persons residing in the same household, or immediate family members of members of the legislature from engaging in certain activities that are deemed an indirect interest of a legislator; defines indirect interest; provides an opportunity to cure a violation of such provisions.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows businesses licensed to sell alcohol for on-site consumption to stay open later than usual during a specific summer period from June 11 to July 20, 2026. Normally, these establishments must close early on Sundays and other days, but this legislation temporarily overrides those limits for the designated dates. The change applies statewide, though counties that previously enforced stricter closing times can still maintain their rules unless they choose to adopt the new extended hours. Additionally, the law permits these businesses to serve alcohol up to 30 minutes after the official start of the prohibited sale hours.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies regulations for the cannabis industry in New York to strengthen labor standards and market oversight. It requires new and renewing license applicants to sign labor peace agreements with unions, making the maintenance of these agreements a condition for certification and registration. The legislation also establishes a new Cannabis Industry Wage Board to set fair wages and working conditions, while giving the state board authority to review licenses and modify terms if large market players hinder social equity goals. Additionally, the bill mandates that applicants disclose detailed ownership structures and salary information to promote transparency and accountability within the industry.

Increases the amount of credit to be certified under the federal public service loan forgiveness program for faculty or teachers to five hours worked for each hour of lecture or classroom time.

Prohibits the use of electronic shelving labels, digital shelf display technology, and surveillance pricing in food retail establishments and drug retail establishments; provides injunctive relief and civil penalties.

Enacts the empire state licensing act to provide all New Yorkers with access to professional, occupational, commercial, or business licenses, permits, certificates, or related registrations regardless of an applicant's citizenship or immigration status.

Provides WiFi service and internet access to all individuals residing in temporary housing; relates to funding for internet service under the ConnectAll digital equity grant program.

Maddy summaryS 5138 abolishes New York State's legal allowance for citizens to make arrests, removing a long-standing provision that permitted ordinary people to detain others under specific circumstances. The bill repeals key sections of the criminal procedure law and penal law that previously authorized citizens to use physical force to arrest individuals suspected of committing certain serious crimes (like murder or robbery) while they were fleeing. This change directly affects all New Yorkers who previously could legally make citizen arrests, replacing that authority with exclusive police powers for arrests. The bill does not alter police procedures or create new offenses, but removes a specific legal tool available to private individuals. It is currently pending in the Assembly after passing the Senate.

Enacts the "packaging reduction and recycling infrastructure act" to require companies selling, offering for sale, or distributing packaging materials and products to register with a packaging reduction organization to develop a packaging reduction and recycling plan; makes related provisions.

Relates to establishing the "340B prescription drug anti-discrimination act"; prohibits pharmaceutical manufacturers and pharmacy benefit managers from discriminating against covered entities and New York state pharmacies based on participation in the drug discount program authorized by section 340B of the federal public health service act.