Gaveled in 3:21 PM · Albany, New York · 2025–26 session
NEW YORK STATE SENATE
THE STENOGRAPHIC RECORD
ALBANY, NEW YORK
May 19, 2025
3:21 p.m.
REGULAR SESSION
SENATOR ROXANNE J. PERSAUD, Acting President
ALEJANDRA N. PAULINO, ESQ., Secretary
P R O C E E D I N G SACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The Senate will come to order.
I ask everyone present to please rise and recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
(Whereupon, the assemblage recited the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Bishop Bernard Alex, of Victory Temple Fellowship Church in Syracuse, New York, will deliver today's invocation.
Bishop?
BISHOP ALEX:Second Samuel Chapter 23 reminds us:
"Now these are the last words of David. Thus says David, the son of Jesse, thus says the man that was raised up on high, the anointed of the God of Jacob, and the sweet psalmist of Israel.
"David said, The spirit of the Lord spoke to me, and His words are on my tongue.
"The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spoke to me: Who governs over men must be just, governing in the fear and reverence of God.
"And then the one who governs shall be like the light of the morning when the sun rises, even a morning without clouds, like the tender grass that springs up out of the earth, shining clear, glistening like the tender grass after the rain."
So God of our help for the years to come, the One who shelters us and protects us, I ask that You continue to guide those who have accepted the call to govern, that they do so with the heart and spirit of a servant who serves, that they continue to provide, and that they give wisdom to the thought as they move with precision and integrity in turbulent times, and lives that are filled with questions find guidance.
As the residents of the great State of New York, those from the tip of Montauk Point to the rolling waters of the Niagara, from those that stand on the borders of the neighbors to the north and the rolling hills of the Southern Tier, God, we ask that You give them senatorial leadership to make decisions that are equitable, considerate, and with the people at its core.
And may the decisions made reflect the principles upon which our country was founded, that we remain one nation, under God's divine guidance -- not divided, but with united spirits, and with liberty and justice for all. Keep us all those who serve, that we remember to whom much is given, much is required.
This is our petition and our request. In Your name, Amen.
(Response of "Amen.")
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Reading of the Journal.
THE SECRETARY:In Senate, Friday, May 16, 2025, the Senate met pursuant to adjournment. The Journal of Thursday, May 15, 2025, was read and approved. On motion, the Senate adjourned.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Without objection, the Journal stands approved as read.
Presentation of petitions.
Messages from the Assembly.
The Secretary will read.
THE SECRETARY:Senator Fernandez moves to discharge, from the Committee on Alcoholism and Substance Use Disorders, Assembly Bill Number 2398 and substitute it for the identical Senate Bill 1814, Third Reading Calendar 986.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:So ordered.
Messages from the Governor.
Reports of standing committees.
Reports of select committees.
Communications and reports from state officers.
Motions and resolutions.
Senator Gianaris.
SENATOR GIANARIS:Good afternoon, Madam President.
On behalf of Senator Addabbo, I wish to call up Senate Print 2000, recalled from the Assembly, which is now at the desk.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The Secretary will read.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 235, Senate Print 2000, by Senator Addabbo, an act to amend the Insurance Law.
SENATOR GIANARIS:Move to reconsider the vote by which the bill was passed.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The Secretary will call the roll on reconsideration.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 52.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is restored to its place on the Third Reading Calendar.
SENATOR GIANARIS:I offer the following amendments.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The amendments are received.
SENATOR GIANARIS:Amendments are also offered to the following Third Reading Calendar bills:
By Senator Bailey, page 16, Calendar Number 425, Senate Print 5313;
Senator Bailey, page 21, Calendar Number 584, Senate Print 5045;
Senator Comrie, page 28, Calendar Number 708, Senate Print 5553A;
Senator Comrie, page 28, Calendar Number 710, Senate Print 6846;
Senator Sepúlveda, page 46, Calendar Number 893, Senate Print 5294;
Senator Rivera, page 46, Calendar Number 898, Senate Print 7457;
Senator Stavisky, page 47, Calendar Number 906, Senate Print 6891;
Senator Webb, page 56, Calendar Number 1021, Senate Print 2047;
Senator Skoufis, page 57, Calendar Number 1024, Senate Print 4857A;
Senator Hoylman-Sigal, page 55, Calendar Number 1005, Senate Print 4914A;
Senator Bailey, page 49, Calendar Number 925, Senate Print 6895;
And Senator Bailey, page 49, Calendar Number 927, Senate Print 7287.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The amendments are received, and the bills will retain their place on the Third Reading Calendar.
Senator Gianaris.
SENATOR GIANARIS:At this time, Madam President, let's take up previously adopted Resolution 821, by Senator Gianaris, read its title only, and recognize me on the resolution, please.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The Secretary will read.
THE SECRETARY:Resolution 821, by Senator Gianaris, memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 4, 2025, as Star Wars Day in the State of New York.
(Laughter as two Star Wars stormtroopers enter the chamber and flank Senator Gianaris.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Gianaris on the resolution.
SENATOR GIANARIS:Hello, there.
Madam President, I have a bad feeling about this.
(Laughter.)
SENATOR GIANARIS:A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. It was almost a half-century ago when those iconic words, the most famous words to begin a film, first appeared on the screen and launched a cultural phenomenon that has endured and grown through the decades -- and I think has affected all of us in our everyday lives.
How many times have you walked into a supermarket and pretended to use the Force to open the doors?
(Laughter.)
SENATOR GIANARIS:I do it at the parking garage on the way in here every day.
(Laughter.)
SENATOR GIANARIS:Or how many times have you had a lightsaber fight with your friends? In fact, two of our colleagues were doing it just today here in the well.
And of course the phrase that launched it all, "May the Force be with you," has now led to a fan-grown phenomenon where May 4th is celebrated as Star Wars Day for "May the fourth be with you."
Now, we had this resolution prepared by then, but as you all know, we were in the middle of the budget and thought it would be in poor taste to take this resolution up while we were dealing with such weighty issues. But we do have it before us today.
And you may all remember, that budget was hard-fought, it was at times divisive, it was partisan. But here is a day when we can all come together, where indeed the most conservative members of this chamber and the most progressive can share in the joys of celebrating what Star Wars has brought to so many of us.
I don't want to out anyone who doesn't want to be spoken about, but Senator Borrello, Senator Stec and myself are on a Star Wars text thread, which I think most people would find an odd combination of people.
(Laughter.)
SENATOR GIANARIS:Senator Rivera is sometimes joining us and has brought his own official lightsaber I know here to the chamber today.
So perhaps in Star Wars the Senate was a tool of the emperor and eventually was disbanded. Here it is uniting us and bringing us together to make us ever stronger.
I want to thank our own personal Mon Mothva, Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins, our leader, for allowing this display to happen in the Senate chamber today.
(Laughter.)
SENATOR GIANARIS:And I must take the opportunity to make a plea to our friends at Lucasfilm: Please bring back "The Acolyte." It was a good show, and it has grown in popularity since it was taken off the air.
So hear us, Lucasfilm!
To my colleagues here, a plea for all of us as well: May the Force be with us.
Thank you, Madam President.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Thank you, Senator.
May the Fourth be with you. The resolution was adopted -- oh.
Senator Borrello on the resolution.
(Laughter.)
SENATOR BORRELLO:(Brandishing lightsaber.) Now it's not going to work.
Thank you, Madam President. Thank you, Senator Gianaris.
Today I rise to celebrate and recognize May 4th as Star Wars Day around the world. "May the Fourth be with you" is a play on words from the iconic line "May the Force be with you." What started off as a pun turned into an international celebration to recognize the impact that Star Wars has had on our culture and what it means to fans around the globe.
The first appearance of "May the Fourth be with you" can be traced back to 1978, just one year after the release of Star Wars: A New Hope.
By then, Star Wars was firmly rooted in popular culture. The phrase gained wider attention on May 4, 1979, when British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher was congratulated in a newspaper ad reading "May the 4th be with you, Maggie -- congratulations!"
The pun also gained traction with Lucasfilm. In 1982 a sound designer coined it while working on Return of the Jedi in Northern California's Redwood Forests. He shared it on set and would go on to send an annual May the 4th message for years to come.
From these early mentions, grassroots enthusiasm by fans took over and helped establish May 4th as Star Wars Day, a global celebration of the saga and its impacts.
New York is home to some of the largest events and celebrations of science fiction and fantasy such as New York's Comic-Con, held every October in New York City.
At Comic-Con, Star Wars panels, experiences, meetups and guests are among the biggest draws, bringing fans together from across the galaxy. For me, Star Wars was bigger than life when it hit the movie screens in 1977. I was just 10 years old at the time. It was the state-of-the-art special effects. It was a story that had nothing to do with Earth or even our galaxy, as it starts off "A long, long time ago in a galaxy far, far away."
This was a novel concept at the time, but it was based on the epic battle between good and evil. It drew inspiration from many classic hero stories, from the swashbuckling adventures of movies of the 1940s and '50s to the dogfight battles -- oh, it died. Here we go, all right --
(Laughter.)
SENATOR BORRELLO:-- like those in World War II.
I'm actually worse than the stormtroopers when it comes to aim, so --
(Laughter.)
SENATOR BORRELLO:George Lucas started with an idea that has grown into a movement. There are new fans born every day. Then there are those of us that have grown up and even grown old with Star Wars.
So today we celebrate the global phenomenon that it has become. It is ingrained in our culture and continues to inspire generations with its enduring themes of hope, courage and redemption.
I wanted to thank my co-conspirator, Senator Gianaris, on this. Thank you very much.
And May the Fourth be with you.
Thank you, Madam President.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Thank you, Senator.
Senator Rivera on the resolution.
SENATOR RIVERA:And on the other side of the aisle.
(Laughter.)
SENATOR RIVERA:Madam President, I remember the first -- I'm just going to put this down. Do not light the saber unless you're willing to use it, good sir.
(Laughter.)
SENATOR RIVERA:Now, in 1983 I was eight years old, and the first movie I remember seeing in the movie theater was Return of the Jedi. It is the reason why up to this day, even though people might not like it, I still love me some Ewoks and I still sing the Yub Nub song. That's a very inside thing for others that are Star Wars fans.
But in all honesty, Madam President, it is actually one of the things that as you saw very clearly, Senator Borrello and I would agree on very little. We do agree on this being something that we both share and is shared by millions of people across the world.
And I will say that it is something that is one of the things that has maintained my sanity. I've been here for 15 years, and one of the things that I do to maintain my sanity is that every now and then I go into -- I put -- I take my iPad or I'm at home and I get on my TV and I just put one of these sci-fi blockbusters on and enjoy myself and am able to forget the rest of the world for a little bit.
So I will say, as has been said before, once again, Madam President, to everyone present (lightsaber squealing): May the Fourth be with you.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Thank you, Senator.
Senator Stec on the resolution.
SENATOR STEC:I too want to join -- no, I'll pass on the lightsaber, George.
As has been mentioned, Star Wars is important to a lot of us in here. I was eight years old when Star Wars came out. I remember going to that movie with my family and becoming a big Star Wars fan. It's an odd journey that brings me here to my mid-50s, and as Senator Gianaris pointed out, opposite sides of the aisle, maybe sometimes there are many things we don't agree on, but Star Wars and our love of Star Wars and its impact on us as kids is among the things that brings us together, along with tens of millions of Star Wars fans around the world.
You know, it's nice to recognize that iconic "May the Force be with you" to be Star Wars Day, "May the 4th be with you." So I thank Senator Gianaris for bringing this legislation to the floor. That might be the first and only time that he may ever hear that sentence from me.
(Laughter.)
SENATOR STEC:And as I tried telling him during the budget process -- it didn't work, I'm going to have to go back to school and seek out Yoda, but I'll try it again here: This is not the budget you're looking for.
(Laughter.)
SENATOR STEC:Anyways, I support the resolution. And again, Happy Star Wars Day, everybody.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Thank you, Senator.
The resolution was adopted on April 29th.
Senator Gianaris.
SENATOR GIANARIS:I want to welcome and appreciate that our two guests here have flanked me during this conversation. They are going to make their way to the Majority Conference Room, and they'll be there for about an hour for photos, if anyone would like to sneak out and get their photo and return. That's open not just to members but to anyone that would like to do that. So thank you. Thank you, both of you.
And on to the next resolution, Madam Speaker.
(Applause as Star Wars stormtroopers exit the chamber.)
SENATOR GIANARIS:Previously adopted Resolution 963, by Senator May. Please read that resolution's title and recognize Senator May.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The Secretary will read.
THE SECRETARY:Resolution 963, by Senator May, commemorating the 10th Anniversary of the New York Cider Association.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator May on the resolution.
SENATOR MAY:Thank you, Madam President.
It's a tough act to follow, but let's change the subject a little here and talk about upstate New York.
Upstate New York is one of the best places in the world for growing apples. And we are blessed with an abundance of orchards and apple products, including hard cider.
I have the honor to represent the beautiful Lafayette Valley, where 1911 Cider is located. And we have many other orchards in my district.
Later this afternoon you are all invited to the Well to taste a delicious variety of ciders produced by our craft cider makers from across the state.
For now, I am pleased to recognize the 10th anniversary of the New York State Cider Association. This group came together to advocate for the cider industry, which used to labor under the shadows of other craft beverages, but now I think it's fair to say that cider is having its moment, thanks to the relentless advocacy of the New York State Cider Association and their great products, as well as the legislation that we passed last year to allow direct shipment of cider and other craft beverages direct to consumers.
We are joined today by Scott Ramsey and Adrian Luna of the New York Cider Association, as well as representatives from Nine Pin Cider, Rockland Cider Works, Indian Ladder Farms Cidery, Brooklyn Cider House, Merchant's Daughter, Treasury Cider, and Clarksburg Cidery.
And I ask you to welcome our guests and give them the privileges of the house.
Thank you.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:To our guests, I welcome you on behalf of the Senate. We extend to you the privileges and courtesies of this house.
Please rise and be recognized.
(Standing ovation.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The resolution was adopted on May 13th.
Senator Gianaris.
SENATOR GIANARIS:Please recognize Senator Brisport for an introduction.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Brisport for an introduction.
SENATOR BRISPORT:Thank you, Madam President.
I rise to introduce visitors from the Brownsville Community Justice Center, BCJC, which improves public safety in Brownsville, Brooklyn, by investing in local residents, transforming public spaces and reimagining the criminal justice process.
The Community Justice Center works to reduce crime and incarceration, strengthen the trust in the justice system, and promote vibrant civic life in Brownsville, Brooklyn. Programming at the Brownsville Community Justice Center centers on three key elements: Alternatives to incarceration, youth development, and reimagining public space. This holistic approach guides all of the services and opportunities offered at the Community Justice Center, which are uniquely designed to uplift and empower Brownsville youth.
I want to thank staff Lenny, Lavont, Robin and Hailey for being here, as well as our Youth Leadership Council members and participants: Javon, Sela, Emilio, Havi, Nema.
Today they were lobbying for the Right to Remain Silent bill, legislation from our own Senator Bailey. I really want to thank you all for showing the New York State Senate the power and future of Brownsville.
"Never ran, never will." Thank you.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Thank you, Senator.
To our guests, I welcome you on behalf of the Senate. We extend to you the privileges and courtesies of this house.
Please rise and be recognized.
(Standing ovation.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Serrano.
SENATOR SERRANO:Thank you, Madam President.
We have a privileged resolution by Senator Mattera. Please take that up, Resolution 1020. Please read that title only and call on Senator Mattera.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:There is a privileged resolution at the desk.
The Secretary will read.
THE SECRETARY:Resolution 1020, by Senator Mattera, memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 19, 2025, as Italian American Day in the State of New York.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Mattera on the resolution.
SENATOR MATTERA:Thank you, Madam President.
Today as a proud member of the New York Conference of Italian-American Legislators, it is my honor to stand before you as we jointly proclaim today Italian American Day in New York State. What a great day.
This day is the opportunity to recognize the profound impact Italian-Americans have had on our state and nation. Just so everybody understands, 25 percent of New York residents are Italian-Americans, and we are very proud of that.
These individuals have helped shape America into the great nation it is today, and they continue to lead us towards a brighter future. Their contributions are vast and they remind us of the importance of honoring those who paved the way for all of us.
Today's designation of Italian American Day also celebrates the Republic of Italy's national holiday, Festa Della Repubblica Italiana, which celebrates the day Italy voted to become a democratic republic.
This shared history gives us an extra reason to celebrate both here and in Italy and I am going to be going to Italy in July, so I'm very excited about that for my first time.
This shared history gives us an extra reason to celebrate both here and in Italy. It is a day to honor all who have made our state and nation stronger.
As someone who is proud of my Italian heritage, I know that I stand in the shadow of all who have come before me, and I am proud to celebrate and remember their legacy.
That is why today the New York State Conference of Italian-American Legislators honored some of the deserving Italian-American New Yorkers who have worked to preserve the history of Italian-Americans to ensure that their contributions are always honored and serve as an inspiration for all who follow.
And I'm going to mention these names because these are very, very important people that are here today. Dr. Joseph Scelsa. He is the founder of the Italian American Museum on Mulberry Street in Manhattan. You know, and I appreciate that he is here and what he is doing.
Antonietta Marisello {ph} is here today. Maria Milito. Christopher Macchio. Chris Vaccaro. Philip Foglia. Assemblyman Philip Palmesano.
And our Republican leader that is being honored today also, Leader Rob Ortt. And just so everybody knows, Leader Ortt is half Italian. And I said to the leader, "That is definitely your better half."
(Laughter.)
SENATOR MATTERA:That's going to be good. No, I just had to say that.
And congratulations to all of our scholarship winners. Great job, all of our high school and our college students.
These New Yorkers have made their own contributions to our state today, and we celebrate Italian Independence Day. We are honored to celebrate their contributions and their accomplishments. I thank them for all their dedication and hope they understand the lasting impact they have had.
As I close, I want to note how Italian American Day is remembered and the strength of our state's diversity. It highlights how every community and every race contributed to the building of New York, which is the greatest state in the union. We have built this great state together, and it is only through that shared commitment that we continue to thrive.
It was great to see our Prime Minister of Italy, Giorgia Meloni, when she attended the U.N. Week. And in the fall when she visited, she went to Columbus Circle and she placed a wreath at the Columbus statue. That was very, very important to all Italian-Americans.
It is so important that we also preserve Columbus Day. And that I want to thank President Trump for signing an executive order protecting this precious celebration for all Italian-Americans. That is our heritage.
I hope that we all can join together as a body to celebrate our diversity by recognizing Italian American Day. Hope to see everybody at the festa. God bless all Italian-Americans, God bless Italy, and God bless the United States of America. Cent'anni! A hundred years good health.
Madam President, please extend all privileges and courtesies of the house to our honorees and to all of our scholarship award winners.
Thank you, and I proudly vote aye.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Thank you, Senator.
Senator Chan on the resolution.
SENATOR CHAN:Thank you, Madam President.
How can I not speak about the Italians? First I want to thank Senator Mattera for introducing this resolution. I'll start off with "Che si dice." How can I not speak about this when I lived intimately with my Italian friends in Brooklyn for 50 years, from Bensonhurst to Bath Beach, Dyker Heights, Bay Ridge, Gravesend, Kensington -- you name it. South Brooklyn. From Galileo to Da Vinci, from Marco Polo to Marconi, from Prada to Gucci. How can we dispute the contributions of the Italians to the betterment of mankind and civilization?
As our beautiful neighborhood of South Brooklyn changes, our Italian culture is as prevalent as ever. Together with the Italians, we forge forward. We have people that I grew up with named Venuto and Conigliaro, Trippes, Neris. I know 10 Sally Boys and about five Fat Tonys.
(Laughter.)
SENATOR CHAN:And one of them is Chinese. He's a Chinese cop.
(Laughter.)
SENATOR CHAN:My chief of staff is named Vito LaBella.
From the land of Lioni Italian heroes, to Villabate Bakery, Bari Salumeria, Spumoni Gardens, Villa Fiorita Ristorante, La Bella Markets -- no relations -- Mr. Phil's Pizza, our Lady of Guadalupe Roman Catholic Church, and of course the Santa Rosalia Feast enjoyed by all coming from all over the city.
We thrive as a neighborhood in motion. And it's not just the Italians, but today it is about the Italians. And all of us have common goals. People speaking different languages somehow able to communicate with each other because we have a common goal and we do the same things.
From Mulberry Street in Little Italy to 18th Avenue in Brooklyn, can you feel it? I can. Fuggedaboutit. Come to South Brooklyn. I'll tell you what I'm talking about. I'll show you.
I proudly support this resolution on behalf of the people of South Brooklyn. We love this! Gracie.
(Applause from galleries.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Thank you, Senator.
Senator Rhoads on the resolution.
SENATOR RHOADS:Thank you, Madam President.
I proudly rise as an Italian-American myself with my maternal grandparents, Fred and Frances Salacca, coming from Bari and Naples respectively. I'm also married to a lovely lady who is 100 percent Italian. So even though the other half of me is Irish and German, you know what half dominates our house, and that is Italian.
I rise actually, in addition to it being Italian American Day today, the committee also awards two scholarships -- actually, four scholarships, two in the area of athletics and two in the area of academics. The 5th Senate District was blessed this year to have two honorees, two scholarship recipients, one of whom is in the chamber today. But I would like to recognize both. First, Thomas DiLeo, who is the recipient of the Senator John Marchi Athletic Scholarship, was a Plainview-Old Bethpage-JFK high school graduate of the Class of 2023. He's currently a sophomore at Stony Brook University as part of the university's eight-year Scholars for Dental Medicine Program.
Tommy has two passions: Cooking and baseball. Although severely asthmatic, through years of conditioning and training he was able to overcome that obstacle playing for the varsity baseball team, earning MVP honors and two league championships. Today Tommy is the starting left-fielder for Stony Brook University's Club Baseball Team and has played for Stony Brook's Rugby Team.
He has also maintained a 100 percent GPA throughout his high school career while leading the Investors Club, the Veterans Club and is on the Leadership Council of the Saint Pius X Youth Group, which for those of you who have been here a while know that I have the honor of serving as youth minister.
And knowing Tommy for the better part of the last six years, he is truly an exceptional not only athlete, but just an amazing person. He's currently maintaining a 3.8 GPA while making the Dean's List in each semester while taking physics and organic chemistry. And he is truly a worthy recipient.
Unfortunately, he could not make it with us here today in the chamber because he's actually taking a final exam at college.
But with us in the chamber here today is Damien Crowley. Damien Crowley is the recipient of the James Conte Academic Scholarship. He is a senior at Wantagh High School and will be attending Stanford University in the fall to study chemical engineering, with a focus on environmental sustainability.
As a high school student he's worked with Ph.D. candidates and post-doctoral researchers at Stony Brook University in the chemical and materials engineering department to advance plastic sustainability and curtail soil erosion and land degradation as a student research intern with the Garcia Center for Polymers at Engineered Interfaces.
He also continues to serve as a research intern at Vesta Earth, modeling sediment transport and developing potential solutions to ecological degradation.
As a former Wantagh Warrior myself, I got the chance to meet Damien for the first time through his work with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society as a volunteer, competing for two consecutive years in a seven-week fundraising challenge. The team he captained, Warriors for a Cure, in the last two years has raised over $200,000 for LLS.
But in his spare time Damien is president of the Wantagh Animal Rights and Recycling Club, captain of the Wantagh High School Science Olympiad Team, vice president of Future Business Leaders of America, secretary of the Italian Club, treasurer of the Key Club, member of the Mathletes Team, co-captain of the Wantagh's Varsity Winter Track Team, a sprinter co-captain of the Wantagh's Varsity Spring Track Team, has received the AP Capstone diploma, is an AP Scholar with Distinction, is a National Merit Scholarship Winner, has received the New York State Seal of Biliteracy in Italian, has given oral presentations at the 2024 and 2025 Materials Research Society, and has published a research manuscript in the Journal of Emerging Investigators and articles in the Journal of Ethics and Scientific Technological Innovations as a high school student -- all while maintaining a cumulative weighted GPA of 108.78.
Madam President, I would ask that you recognize Damien, and Thomas in absentia. I would ask that you grant them the privileges and courtesies of the house, and your congratulations on our scholarship award winners.
Thank you, Madam President.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Thank you, Senator.
Senator Scarcella-Spanton on the resolution.
SENATOR SCARCELLA-SPANTON:Thank you, Madam President.
And thank you, Senator Mattera, for introducing this very important resolution in honor of Italian American Day.
As a proud Italian American myself, Scarcella -- if that doesn't give it away, and probably my accent as well -- I really just wanted to say that today is a really special day. We have Festa tonight.
And Italians have such an incredibly rich culture. My dad's grandparents came over from Italy in 1903, Oronzo and Josephine. He worked in the coal mines in Pennsylvania for some time, then he started to sell life insurance. With that money, he opened a store in Hazleton, Pennsylvania, on Carson Street.
So today we have my -- yes? We have -- you know, I rise today thinking of mostly my dad, Michael Scarcella, and his family. They are the reason why we're here today, and I proudly vote aye.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Thank you, Senator.
The question is on the resolution. All those in favor please signify by saying aye.
(Response of "Aye.")
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Oh. Senator Weik on the resolution.
SENATOR WEIK:Thank you, Madam President.
As a proud German-American who's got 0.02 percent Italian in me -- I'm told that counts -- I'm so proud to be able to recognize Bob Fonti, who's the president of the Italian American Political Action Committee and president of the Lt. Detective Joseph Petrosino Association in America. And he's one of the only officers ever killed on foreign soil, is what I am told.
And so they play such a great big part on Long Island and across New York, and I thank them for being here today and for joining us.
And I proudly vote aye on today's resolution.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Thank you, Senator.
The question is on the resolution. All those in favor please signify by saying aye.
(Response of "Aye.")
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Opposed, nay.
(No response.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The resolution is adopted.
To our guests, I welcome you on behalf of the Senate. We extend to you the privileges and courtesies of this house.
Please all rise and be recognized.
(Standing ovation.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Gianaris.
SENATOR GIANARIS:Next up, Madam President, is previously adopted Resolution 588, by Senator Webb. Please read that resolution's title and recognize Senator Webb.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The Secretary will read.
THE SECRETARY:Resolution 588, by Senator Webb, mourning the death of John "JR" Gaudet, distinguished citizen, respected firefighter, and devoted member of his community.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Webb on the resolution.
SENATOR WEBB:Thank you, Madam President.
I rise with a heavy heart to honor the life, the service, and the enduring legacy of John "JR" Gaudet. He was a beloved husband, father, son, community leader, and firefighter from my district in Binghamton, New York, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty on February 12th of this year at the age of 40.
For anyone that knew JR, they knew that he was more than a public servant. He was a cornerstone of our community in Binghamton. Born and raised right in my district, JR exemplified what it means to dedicate your life to others. His commitment to protecting our community was only matched by his deep love for his family; specifically, his wife, Felly, and their three children: Charles, Vanessa and Michael.
He was a proud graduate of Binghamton High School, my alma mater, and JR went on to attend both Binghamton University and SUNY Cortland, where he played collegiate lacrosse, a sport that remained close to his heart. And for anyone that knew him, they knew that he also prided himself on being a coach and he was very enthusiastic about his love for that sport.
He later gave back as a youth coach for lacrosse, football and basketball, and always showed up with an infectious smile, a joke, tireless energy, and unwavering positivity. Those who knew JR describe him as someone who always put others first, whether it was on the job or in his family and throughout our community.
Whether it was responding to emergencies as a firefighter or mentoring young athletes on the field, JR's dedication to service and humanity touched countless lives.
Madam President, JR Gaudet embodied the very best of us. His spirit will live on not only through his family and friends, but also in the community that he loved and gave so much to.
As we mourn his loss and his transition, let us also honor his legacy by committing ourselves to a life of service, compassion, and care for one another.
To Binghamton Fire Department Captain David Holleran, who is here today, and the Binghamton Fire Department, I just want you to know that your commitment to keeping his legacy of service alive is a part of your work as public servants, and we appreciate everything that you do for our community in every way that you show up.
And to his wife, Felly, and to his children and the entire Gaudet family, please know that the 52nd Senate District and the entire State of New York grieves with you. And we thank you for sharing JR with us for the time that he was here. We appreciate your continued great service and support all of the great things that you do for our community.
May his memory continue to be a blessing, and may we carry forward his legacy of love and service.
Madam President, please extend privileges of our house to Binghamton Fire Department Captain Holleran, and prayers to the family of JR Gaudet and all those whose lives he's touched.
I vote aye and encourage my colleagues to do the same.
Thank you, Madam President.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Thank you.
To our guests -- God bless you -- our condolences to you and the entire Fire Department and to the family of JR. I welcome you on behalf of the Senate. We extend to you the privileges and courtesies of this house.
Please rise and be recognized.
(Standing ovation.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The resolution was adopted on April 2nd.
Senator Gianaris.
SENATOR GIANARIS:Please recognize Senator Hinchey for an introduction.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Hinchey for an introduction.
SENATOR HINCHEY:Thank you, Madam President.
Pop quiz: Who can tell me what the four H's are in 4-H? I bet the students in the gallery can tell us. The answer is head, heart, hands, and health. Head, to clearer thinking. Heart, to greater loyalty. Hands, to larger service. And health, to better living.
We're excited to welcome students from across New York State to the Senate chamber today because today marks the 90th Annual 4-H Capital Days Conference. That's 90 years of 4-Hers coming to Albany to learn about state government, meet their representatives and connect with fellow 4-Hers from different communities.
If you're not familiar, 4-H is the largest youth development organization in the country, thanks to Cornell Cooperative Extension. Every year when I go to the Ulster County Fair, the Columbia County Fair, the Greene County Youth Fair, I'm blown away by the creativity, confidence, and self-expression coming from our 4-Hers.
You take the things you care about and turn them into projects that teach, advocate and open minds. Whether it's raising animals, learning about food and farming, protecting the environment, creating art, or sharpening your public speaking skills, 4-H is about building real-world skills and giving you the space to explore and run with your curiosities about the world.
The impact of that speaks for itself. 4-Hers are four times more likely to have a positive impact in their communities, three times more likely to feel confident, and twice as likely to pursue STEM and make healthy choices.
Last year alone, more than 400,000 students across New York State took part in 4-H. That's incredible. So keep asking questions, keep taking risks, keep being curious, keep showing up for yourself, for your community, and for what drives you. It takes courage to try something new. And that can be a really vulnerable place to be. But it's also where the real growth happens.
Thank you all for being here and for reminding us what service and courage look like in action. And a special shout out to 4-Hers Ella Maxwell and Zachary Maroney, who are here representing Ulster County, from my district, from Highland and my hometown of Saugerties.
Madam President, please welcome our guests to the chamber and offer them all the privileges. Thank you very much.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Thank you, Senator.
To our guests, we welcome you on behalf of the Senate. We extend to you the privileges and courtesies of this house.
Please all rise and be recognized.
(Standing ovation.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Gianaris.
SENATOR GIANARIS:One more introduction, from Senator Gounardes, please.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Gounardes for an introduction.
SENATOR GOUNARDES:Thank you, Madam President.
I rise today to honor and introduce a remarkable New Yorker who was a giant in the field of public transportation and public transit because he spent 20 years serving on the board of the MTA.
We discuss the MTA a lot in this chamber in the work that we do here in Albany, and we have -- we talk about it sometimes in the abstract, we talk about it sometimes in the real-life. But Norman Brown, who spent 20 years as a board member on the MTA, who just retired, lived his service to the MTA every single day. He devoted himself to the stewardship and improvement of public transit for all New Yorkers through his service on the board.
As a labor representative for the Metro-North commuter rail, he was a champion for the workers who helped power our public transit, and he was a committed voice for the importance that public transit plays to our region's economy.
But that's not all, because he is also a scholar of transportation policy, and he has helped push and advocated for policy interests -- policy campaigns to help further the interests of riders and help strengthen our public transit system for decades.
He has a deep knowledge, not just of mass transit but of freight rail as well. And he is someone whose expertise ranges from maintenance issues on the shop floor to the macroeconomics of transportation.
After 20 years of service on the MTA Board -- without a vote -- he's probably had more impact on the MTA and on public transit than many of us in this room and even board members who have had a vote for even half that time.
Norman is with us here today in the chamber with his guests. And so, Madam President, I'd ask that you'd recognize him and give him the full courtesies and privileges of the chamber.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Thank you, Senator.
To our guests, I welcome you on behalf of the Senate. We extend to you the privileges and courtesies of this house. Thank you for your service.
Please rise and be recognized.
(Standing ovation.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Gianaris.
SENATOR GIANARIS:Next up is previously adopted Resolution 279, by Senator Rhoads. Please have that resolution's title read and recognize Senator Rhoads.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The Secretary will read.
THE SECRETARY:Resolution 279, by Senator Rhoads, memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim June 2025 as Aphasia Awareness Month in the State of New York.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Rhoads on the resolution.
SENATOR RHOADS:Thank you, Madam President.
Again, I rise and I thank the leader for allowing this resolution to come to the floor to recognize June 2025 as Aphasia Awareness Month in the State of New York.
Many people don't know what aphasia is, but it impacts over 2 million people a year. In fact, 40 percent of individuals who suffer a stroke are eventually diagnosed with some impact of aphasia.
And aphasia is an impairment of language affecting the production or comprehension of speech and the ability to read or write. And this condition occurs when the part of the brain that's required for communication abilities is damaged due to a stroke, brain injury, or other neurological condition.
Those affected by aphasia often struggle to come up with words, to say what they mean, read quickly or to their full ability, or even remember how to spell words that they used to be able to read and write. They have difficulty understanding conversations as well as following conversations. And this becomes a particular problem when they're trying to communicate with their own doctors, which leads to them not asking the appropriate questions to professionals and to signing forms without proper understanding of the situation.
Raising awareness is key.
And with us in the chamber we are honored to have Matthew Weingartner. Now, Matthew was an avid college baseball player. Matt had two open-heart surgeries in 2006 and 2017, resulting in an infection, which triggered a stroke on April 18th of 2018 and a diagnosis of Broca's aphasia.
Like so many people that we recognize in this chamber, Matthew, though, took a personal tragedy and turned it into an opportunity to try and do something positive for others, using it as a chance to raise awareness, becoming a national spokesperson for the National Aphasia Awareness Foundation, as well as creating his own YouTube channel, A Matter of Matt, which I would encourage everyone to follow, to hear about his life story and his efforts to raise awareness of aphasia.
Matt also I'm sure would want me to mention that he is having his first annual Aphasia Awareness Resource Fair on June 25th of 2025, from 10:00 in the morning to 12:00 in the afternoon at Long Island University Library Room L123, the Zwicker Conference Center, again on June 25, 2025.
So, Madam President, I certainly rise in support of the resolution, which was previously adopted. But also I would ask that you recognize Matthew, his dad, Wayne, who has joined him as well as I believe he's brought two other guests to us in the chamber. Please welcome them on behalf of the Senate and please grant to them the privileges and courtesies of the house.
Thank you, Madam President.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Thank you, Senator.
To our guests, I welcome you on behalf of the Senate. We extend to you the privileges and courtesies of this house.
Please rise and be recognized.
(Standing ovation.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The resolution was adopted on February 4th.
Senator Gianaris.
SENATOR GIANARIS:Now on to previously adopted Resolution 962. Please have that resolution's title read and recognize Senator Cleare on her resolution.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The Secretary will read.
THE SECRETARY:Resolution 962, by Senator Cleare, commemorating the 100th Birthday of Malcolm X, an advocate for human rights and one of the most influential African-American leaders in history.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Cleare on the resolution.
SENATOR CLEARE:Thank you. Good afternoon, Madam President.
I rise to pay tribute to one of the most important Americans -- New Yorkers -- in the history of the world: El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz, known to many as Malcolm X. Today would have been his 100th birthday. And when we ponder the transformation he undertook in only 39 years on this earth, we can only wonder where we would be with 61 more years of his leadership.
Malcolm X may have been born in Nebraska, but many of the most essential events of his life happened in a village that I represent -- Harlem. He spent part of his transformative youth in Harlem from 1943 to 1945. He returned to Harlem in the 1950s to lead Temple No. 7 on West 116th Street, which today is known as Masjid Malcolm Shabazz.
Upon his return to New York in 1965, he was assassinated.
The birthday of Malcolm X is a significant annual event in any district, but I would dare say throughout other parts of New York City, New York State, and even the world. That is because Malcolm's journey and evolution has not only inspired billions of people worldwide, but so many of those people lived the very same experience, took the very same steps, fought against the very same racism and injustice, and some have even paid the ultimate price, much like Brother Malcolm did.
The Village of Harlem has always paid tribute to Malcolm X. In 1987, Lenox Avenue was renamed Malcolm X Boulevard. We landmarked the former Audubon Ballroom as Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center. And 25 years ago, Malcolm X Plaza was dedicated as gateway to Harlem.
And this year, when my bill S1204 passes, we will rename the underlying subway station at West 110th Street the Malcolm X Plaza Station.
2025 is not only the 100th birthday of Malcolm X, but also the commencement of the 100th anniversary of the Harlem Renaissance, in which he played a great part. The two milestones will combine in a series of events this year like no other, combining celebration, teaching, community service, education and advocacy.
As we work and move forward in this 2025 legislative session, let us remember the words of Malcolm X: "When one is moderate in the pursuit of justice for human beings, I say he's a sinner." And in that vein, let us be united against sin and not be moderate in our efforts, but purposeful and deliberate.
May the memory of Malcolm X be with us today, and may his lessons and teachings grace us here in the chamber.
Thank you, Madam President. I proudly vote aye.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Thank you, Senator.
Senator Comrie on the resolution.
SENATOR COMRIE:Thank you, Madam President.
I rise today to support Senator Cleare's resolution. I want to thank her for bringing this to the floor. Malcolm X in the final years before his life was cut short lived in Elmhurst, Queens, in now Senator Ramos's district, with his family.
It's hard not to think about how different our borough would be if he had a chance to live a full life there.
One of the most important aspects of Malcolm X's story, and perhaps the most applicable today, is that he managed to escape an idolatry of hatred. Growing up in Black America in the first half of the 20th century, it is not understandable -- it is understandable not to blame him for being indoctrinated. When you experience any amount of mistreatment, oppression or suffering, it is easy to be convinced that there's a distinct group at fault -- a group that you can lash out against with impunity.
But then after going to Africa, the pilgrimage to Mecca, Malcolm X was overcome with a great sense of connection with people of all colors, Muslims of all colors, who had come to pray just as he had at the Kaaba. And this connection changed the way that he wrote, the way that he thought about teachings he'd received, and the way that he spoke.
Malcolm X said just days before his death that he understood the world around him in a new way. After listening to revolutionaries and speaking with Muslims from around the world, he realized just how dangerous a tool racism was for the oppressed to wield against their oppressors. And that only through unity can the human race escape today's violence and suffering.
This did not change the fire within him that drove him to fight, but redirected him towards the causes of human dignity and rights for all.
We still see today how extremist groups prey on those who are hurt, who feel trapped in poverty and are unable to escape. But those fully committed to those extreme beliefs -- I'm sorry. We see these groups slowly turn those people to hatred and violence. But even those who have had hatred and violence in their hearts can be fully committed and be deprogrammed. They can be redirected towards the root of the struggles that they've faced and be redirected to show that they can be positive people.
Malcolm X shows us the tremendous power of education and the immense importance of speaking truth to power without fear of reprisal. And it is a part of our history that we must continue to be students of if we are to prevent the same suffering and tragedy from happening again.
To close with a few words from his autobiography: "I'm for truth, no matter who tells it. I'm for justice, no matter who it is for or against. I'm a human being first and foremost, and I'm for whoever and whatever benefits humanity as a whole."
As we are here in these chambers, Madam Speaker, I would remind us that we are all truth-tellers. We should all be truth-tellers. We're all fighters for our communities to try to make this a better state. And we should be like Malcolm, consistently seeking the truth, fighting those pillars or those bureaucracies that keep us from trying to get to the truth, so that we can have a better state.
Thank you, Madam President.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Thank you, Senator.
Senator Bailey on the resolution.
SENATOR BAILEY:Thank you, Madam President.
Thank you, Senator Cleare, for introducing this resolution.
Brother Malcolm would have been a hundred years old today. Senator Cleare mention it in her remarks. The age of 39 seems to be the year when two of our greatest were taken from us: Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, and Brother Malcolm, Malcolm X.
Malcolm X is the -- whether people believe it or not, he is the greatest American story or one of the greatest American stories of believing in second chances. Malcolm Little, born in Omaha, Nebraska, had a childhood full of problems, a young adulthood full of problems, including but not limited to incarceration, drugs, et cetera, et cetera. But he found something deeper and became somebody who on the very floor of the New York State Senate whose birthday we proclaim.
That is one of the greatest American second-chance stories. Not just Black, American. Black history is American history. It's not February but I feel the need, Madam President, to make sure we remind people of that every day. We can.
One of my favorite movies, Madam President, is Do the Right Thing. It's a Spike Lee Joint. I didn't realize until today, when I was doing a little prep, that that movie came out on May 19, 1989, Brother Malcolm's birthday. I was seven years old, and I wasn't able to watch Do the Right Thing at that time, Madam President. My parents had a little bit more sense than that. I watched it when I was eight -- just kidding.
(Laughter.)
SENATOR BAILEY:But when I did get a chance to watch that movie, it's become one of my favorite movies. And it's like Brother Comrie said: We should aspire to do the right thing.
Well, doing the right thing means different things to different people. Do the right thing may mean that you read the autobiography of Malcolm X with Alex Haley and you think that the job is over. It's not.
Maybe you watched the movie in '92 with Denzel and you saw him deliver what should have been an Oscar-winning performance. But that's not.
But what I challenge us to do, all of us -- even those of us who know Brother Malcolm's story, is to dig deeper into who he was. If you've never gotten a chance, "The Ballot or the Bullet," March 29, 1964, in Audubon Ballroom, when he spoke about the famous quote that you hear in the movie: "We didn't land on Plymouth Rock. Plymouth Rock landed on us."
It's not just a throwaway line, Madam President. When they brought Black folks to this country, they didn't contemplate that we would be a part of the conversation. If you go through the story, if you go through the speech, he talks about we gave 310 years of free labor, we just want to get our back pay, so to speak. I'm paraphrasing there.
I want us to think about the country and the troubled country that we have, and think about how we continue to rise as a society, as one.
You've heard me say it on the floor of the Senate, but my favorite Malcolm X quote -- well, two: "By any means necessary." And the "Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today."
We have to continue to prepare for the future by doing the work that we do in this chamber. Dr. Betty Shabazz, after Malcolm X's assassination, moved to my district, to the City of Mount Vernon, where she raised her daughters. In Lower Westchester County, in the City of Mount Vernon, they became pillars of the community.
I challenge us again, on this 100 -- on the centennial -- he was a big enough man that we've got to use big enough things -- centennial celebration of Brother Malcolm, that we do what we can to make sure that we continue to unify and uplift all people.
Thank you, Madam President, I vote aye.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Thank you, Senator.
The resolution was adopted on May 13th.
Senator Gianaris.
SENATOR GIANARIS:Madam President, the sponsors of all of today's resolutions would like to open them for cosponsorship.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The resolutions are open for cosponsorship. Should you choose not to be a cosponsor, please notify the desk.
Senator Gianaris.
SENATOR GIANARIS:On behalf of Senator Myrie, on page 15 I offer the following amendments to Calendar Number 390, Senate Print 3789, and ask that that bill retain its place on the Third Reading Calendar.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The amendments are received, and the bill will retain its place on the Third Reading Calendar.
Senator Gianaris.
SENATOR GIANARIS:Let's take up the calendar now, please.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The Secretary will read.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 109, Senate Print 518, by Senator Persaud, an act to amend the Executive Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:In relation to Calendar 109, voting in the negative are Senators Borrello, Chan, Gallivan, Griffo, Helming, Lanza, Oberacker, O'Mara, Ortt, Rhoads, Stec and Walczyk.
Ayes, 44. Nays, 12.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 178, Senate Print 1055, by Senator Serrano, an act to amend the Executive Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:In relation to Calendar 178, voting in the negative are Senators Ashby, Borrello, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Chan, Gallivan, Griffo, Helming, Lanza, Mattera, Murray, Oberacker, O'Mara, Ortt, Palumbo, Rhoads, Rolison, Stec, Tedisco, Walczyk, Weber and Weik.
Ayes, 35. Nays, 21.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 244, Senate Print 700, by Senator Krueger, an act to amend the Tax Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 3. This act shall take effect on the first of April.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Krueger to explain her vote.
SENATOR KRUEGER:Thank you, Madam President.
This is an expansion of a law we changed a few years ago that was brought to my attention by law students representing people outside the City of New York who had lost their licenses because they couldn't afford to pay their tax debts. And without their licenses, they couldn't go to work and ever pay back their tax debt.
So the state had gone part of the way then, and we're hoping to go the remainder of the way now. Because we don't actually collect the taxes owed to us when people can't get a job to pay their taxes. So it seems to me, while I'm never in a rush to want to let people off the hook for not paying their taxes, this bill requires you document why you couldn't pay your taxes. And in fact, again, in the City of New York where I come from, not that many people need a driver's license to get to and from work, but in the rest of the state they really do.
So I respect my colleagues' decision to vote against the bill. But if they think about it, this is really for the people of their district.
I vote yes, Madam President. Thank you.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Krueger to be recorded in the affirmative.
Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:In relation to Calendar 244, voting in the negative are Senators Ashby, Borrello, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Chan, Gallivan, Griffo, Helming, Lanza, Mattera, Murray, Oberacker, O'Mara, Ortt, Palumbo, Rhoads, Stec, Tedisco, Weber and Weik.
Ayes, 37. Nays, 19.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 260, Senate Print 1892B, by Senator Jackson, an act to amend the Correction Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:In relation to Calendar 260, voting in the negative are Senators Borrello, Gallivan, Griffo, Helming, O'Mara, Rhoads, Rolison, Walczyk and Weik.
Ayes, 47. Nays, 9.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 439, Senate Print 4926, by Senator Ramos, an act to amend the Workers' Compensation Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect on the 30th day after it shall have become a law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:In relation to Calendar 439, voting in the negative are Senators Lanza and Walczyk.
Ayes, 54. Nays, 2.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 504, Senate Print 4757, by Senator Bailey, an act to amend the Executive Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect on the first of April.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:In relation to Calendar 504, voting in the negative are Senators O'Mara, Ortt and Walczyk.
Ayes, 53. Nays, 3.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 507, Senate Print 5138, by Senator Gianaris, an act to amend the Criminal Procedure Law.
SENATOR GIANARIS:Lay it aside for the day, please.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill will be laid aside for the day.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 560, Senate Print 5149, by Senator Comrie, an act to amend the State Finance Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect on the 90th day after it shall have become a law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 56.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 663, Senate Print 1467, by Senator Serrano, an act to amend the Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect on the 180th day after it shall have become a law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 56.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 740, Senate Print 1788, by Senator Hinchey, an act to amend the Real Property Tax Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 56.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 745, Senate Print 405, by Senator Myrie, an act to amend the Tax Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:In relation to Calendar 745, voting in the negative: Senator Walczyk.
Ayes, 55. Nays, 1.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 748, Senate Print 1211, by Senator May, an act in relation to enacting the New York Open Water Data Act.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 5. This act shall take effect on the 180th day after it shall have become a law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 56.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 763, Senate Print Number 6281, by Senator Scarcella-Spanton, an act to amend the State Finance Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 56.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 772, Senate Print 7551, by Senator Bynoe, an act to establish the Bottle Redemption Fraud Task Force.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 6. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:In relation to Calendar 772, voting in the negative are Senators Helming, Lanza, Mattera, Murray, O'Mara, Ortt and Weik.
Ayes, 49. Nays, 7.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 932, Senate Print 4200, by Senator Gounardes, an act to amend the Banking Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Calendar Number 893 is high and will be laid aside for the day.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 932, Senate Print 4200, by Senator Gounardes, an act to amend the Banking Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect on the 30th day after it shall have become a law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 56.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 986, Assembly Bill 2398, by Assemblymember Gallagher, an act to amend the Judiciary Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Fernandez to explain her vote.
SENATOR FERNANDEZ:Thank you, Madam President.
This bill changes one word. It changes the word "addict" with a few more -- whoops, sorry. This bill changes one word. In our General Law and our Judiciary Law, County Law, the word "addict" is everywhere. We are changing that word to "person with substance use disorder" across multiple areas of New York State law.
Because behind that one word is decades of stigma, criminalization, and policy failure. The term "addict" entered New York statute in 1972, just as heroin was tearing through poor and Black and brown communities. A year later, the Rockefeller drug laws -- and overnight, stigma entered statute.
Our jails became de facto mental health institutions as people in crisis were locked away instead of treated. Being an addict was seen as a choice, as a moral failing deserving of punishment. Those who were struggling were hidden behind bars and away from the eyes of the public.
But now we know better. Substance use disorder is a chronic relapsing health condition, and the science and lived experience tells us clearly shame does not save lives. Treatment does.
Our words matter, and this bill addresses that point directly. It follows the same logic behind renaming our committee, from alcoholism and drug abuse to alcoholism and substance use disorders.
It is a simple truth: Words shape culture, and culture shapes policy. We've spent decades cleaning up the damage of the War on Drugs, and this bill is one more step in that process towards accuracy, compassion and justice.
I proudly vote aye.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Fernandez to be recorded in the affirmative.
Senator Bailey to explain his vote.
SENATOR BAILEY:Thank you, Madam President.
I really want to thank Senator Fernandez on her leadership on this bill and in the committee. As she mentioned, she's changed the name of the committee because words do matter. Right? The way that we think about people and the way that we think about words, they really do matter. And we have to be intentional in the way that we utilize our words.
Born in 1982, lived in the Bronx, New York. When I was growing up, people used to use the words "addict," "junkie," "crackhead," "fiend," all of these things interchangeably when they were talking about people who had significant issues. And they just weren't being helped. They were thought as people that were essentially subhuman.
But when it became evident that it was in more communities than just the Black and brown communities, the conversation shifted. I'm happy that we shifted the conversation. But this conversation should have happened long ago. It's very important that it's happening now. And the way that we look at people who have addictions, that have afflictions, that have concerns that they need to be ameliorated, is really important, and that they can be treated with humanity and respect like everybody else, regardless of what they may or may not be facing.
So Senator Fernandez, hats off to you once again.
Thank you to my colleagues for voting for this bill. I proudly vote aye on this bill, and we must continue to make sure we change the way -- because words do matter, Madam President.
Thank you.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Bailey to be recorded in the affirmative.
Senator May to explain her vote.
SENATOR MAY:Thank you, Madam President.
I also want to thank the sponsor for this bill. This is really important. When I was first elected and made the chair of the Commission on Rural Resources, one of the first things we did was hold a roundtable about substance abuse and overdose prevention in rural communities. And what came out loud and clear at that roundtable was that stigma was the number-one problem that rural people dealt with when they were trying to either recover or help a loved one.
We even heard about first responders who would be called multiple times to the same address, and they would drag their feet a little bit more each time when they had to go to that same address because they carried the stigma as well.
So I hope that this change can be part of really addressing what was part of an epidemic, honestly not just of substance abuse and overdoses, but of stigma. Literally stigma was the epidemic in a lot of rural communities, and I really hope that this can make a difference.
So thank you, and I vote aye.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator May to be recorded in the affirmative.
Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:In relation to Calendar 986, voting in the negative are Senators Lanza and Senator Walczyk.
Ayes, 54. Nays, 2.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 1013, Senate Print 627, by Senator Stavisky, an act to amend the Education Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 56.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 1025, Senate Print 1336, by Senator Parker, an act to amend the New York State Urban Development Corporation Act.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 4. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 56.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 1026, Senate Print 4945, by Senator Comrie, an act to amend the Public Authorities Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 3. This act shall take effect on the 180th day after it shall have become a law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:Ayes, 56.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 1028, Senate Print 6018, by Senator Baskin, an act in relation to authorizing and directing the New York State Power Authority to rename the Robert Moses Niagara Power Plant to the Shirley J. Hamilton Niagara Power Plant.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:In relation to Calendar 1028, voting in the negative are Senators Ashby, Borrello, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Chan, Gallivan, Griffo, Helming, Lanza, Mattera, Murray, Oberacker, O'Mara, Ortt, Palumbo, Rhoads, Rolison, Stec, Tedisco, Walczyk, Weber and Weik.
Ayes, 35. Nays, 21.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 1037, Senate Print 550, by Senator Brisport, an act to amend the Social Services Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 4. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:In relation to Calendar 1037, voting in the negative are Senators Bynoe and Martinez.
Ayes, 54. Nays, 2.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 1084, Senate Print 3294, by Senator Cooney, an act to amend the Cannabis Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 13. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Krueger to explain her vote.
SENATOR KRUEGER:Thank you very much.
I want to thank Senator Cooney for bringing this bill to the floor, and hoping we get it passed by both houses this year.
You know, when I wrote the marijuana regulation bill in 2016 we made some significant changes to medical marijuana, but in fact there are a number of things that we failed to do, and modernization has allowed us to do more.
I particularly want to highlight the importance of lowering, even though it does not completely end taxation of medical marijuana -- I don't know of any other medicine in the State of New York that we actually tax.
It will also streamline the process for collecting research on medical marijuana and its values, and hopefully make it easier for patients to learn the information they need to make the right decisions with their healthcare provider about what kind of cannabis products might be in their best interest, depending on what their illness is.
So again, thank you very much to Senator Cooney for this very good work.
I vote yes.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Krueger to be recorded in the affirmative.
Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:In relation to Calendar 1084, voting in the negative are Senators Ashby, Borrello, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Chan, Gallivan, Griffo, Helming, Lanza, Martinez, Mattera -- Senator Griffo, pardon me, in the affirmative -- Lanza, Martinez, Mattera, Murray, Oberacker, O'Mara, Ortt, Palumbo, Rhoads, Stec, Tedisco, Walczyk and Weik.
Ayes, 37. Nays, 19.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 1089, Senate Print 4969, by Senator Bailey, an act to amend the Public Health Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect on the 90th day after it shall have become a law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Bailey to explain his vote.
SENATOR BAILEY:Thank you, Madam President.
I was reminded earlier that this is the penultimate bill on the agenda. Thank you, Senator Ashby, for reminding me. It means next to last.
But if you are the victim of gun violence or you're involved in gun violence, you should have more hope. You should have the ability to consult with a psychiatric specialist to have a mental health consultation after that incident. Because if anybody has ever been involved or around when gun violence happens, it's not just a physical injury that affects the families. It is the trauma of the individual that has been shot. It is the trauma of those around them in the surrounding neighborhoods.
So making sure this is available to individuals who have been involved in this sort of gun violence I think is critically important. And it speaks to what we've done in this chamber, making sure that we recognize gun violence as part of a public health crisis. It is a public health problem. It is not just people picking up weapons. We have to get to the root causes, and some of these consultations will maybe help us get to the root causes.
Thank you, Madam President. Thank you to everybody for voting yes. I vote aye.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Bailey to be recorded in the affirmative.
Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:In relation to Calendar 1089, voting in the negative are Senators Borrello, Gallivan, Griffo, Helming, Lanza, Murray, Oberacker, O'Mara, Ortt, Rhoads, Stec, Tedisco, Walczyk and Weik.
Ayes, 42. Nays, 14.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
THE SECRETARY:Calendar Number 1096, Senate Print 2355, by Senator Parker, an act to amend the Public Service Law.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Read the last section.
THE SECRETARY:Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Call the roll.
(The Secretary called the roll.)
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Announce the results.
THE SECRETARY:In relation to Calendar 1096, voting in the negative: Senator C. Ryan.
Ayes, 55. Nays, 1.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The bill is passed.
Senator Gianaris, that completes the reading of today's calendar.
SENATOR GIANARIS:Please recognize Senator Lanza for a motion.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:Senator Lanza.
SENATOR LANZA:Thank you, Senator Gianaris.
Madam President, on behalf of Senator Rolison, on page 43 I offer the following amendments to Calendar Number 866, Senate Print 6927, and ask that said bill retain its place on Third Reading Calendar.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:The amendments are received, and the bill will retain its place on the Third Reading Calendar.
Senator Gianaris.
SENATOR GIANARIS:Is there any further business at the desk?
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:There is no further business at the desk.
SENATOR GIANARIS:I move to adjourn until tomorrow, Tuesday, May 20th, at 3:00 p.m.
ACTING PRESIDENT PERSAUD:On motion, the Senate stands adjourned until Tuesday, May 20th, at 3:00 p.m.
(Whereupon, at 4:42 p.m., the Senate adjourned.)
Highest impact first.
Cover Lung Cancer Screenings
Require Hospital Violence Prevention
Post Candidate Financial Disclosures
Protect Providers from Out-of-State Penalties
Increase Penalties for Financial Fraud
Fund Community Anti-Gun Violence
Expand Internet Access for All
Mandatory Cultural Training for Responders