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Asm. Lester Chang
District 49
Republican
First elected 2023
Lester Chang represents AD-49, a heavily Democratic district with a D+33 partisan lean and a voter registration breakdown of 48.7% Democrat, 16.1% Republican, and 33.0% Independent. Despite the district's strong Democratic tilt, Chang — first elected in 2022 by a margin of just 4.0 points over incumbent Peter J. Abbate, Jr. — ran uncontested in 2024; the 2026 scenario model rates the seat as at minimum Likely D even under a favorable Republican environment, underscoring his structural vulnerability. The district, centered in Brooklyn, is majority Asian at 51.2% of the population, with a 21.1% poverty rate, a homeownership rate of 33.3%, and a median household income of $65,630. In the 2025 session, Chang sponsored 25 bills with concentrations in Education (5 bills) and Executive matters (4 bills), alongside smaller clusters in New York City Administrative Code, Energy, Financial Services, and General Business.AI
Vulnerability Index AD-49
Base lean: D+14
Favorable D
Neutral
Favorable R
- Ran uncontested in most recent election
- Won last contested race by only 4.1 points
Scenario model: ±5pt national environment shift applied to district base lean (D+14). Base lean blends voter registration (40%) with recent contested general election margins (60%), using up to the last 4 general elections with margins under 40 points. Ratings: Safe D/R = 15+ pts, Likely = 8–14 pts, Lean = 3–7 pts, Toss-up = within 2 pts. Generic ballot from Silver Bulletin (Nate Silver), as of 5/1/2026. Not a prediction — reflects structural competitiveness under different cycle environments.
Electoral History AD-49
General Elections
| Year | Winner | Runner-up | Margin |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Lester Chang 100.0% (15,093) | Uncontested | — |
| 2022 | Lester Chang 52.0% (7,424) | Peter J. Abbate, Jr. 48.0% (6,842) | ⚡ 4.0pts |
| 2020 | Peter J. Abbate, Jr. 100.0% (18,104) | Uncontested | — |
| 2018 | Peter J. Abbate, Jr. 84.3% (10,799) | Rosemary Mangino 15.7% (2,017) | 68.6pts |
| 2016 | Peter J. Abbate, Jr. 75.5% (13,824) | Rosemary A. Mangino 24.5% (4,474) | 51.0pts |
| 2014 | Peter J. Abbate, Jr. 76.0% (4,872) | Henry Lallave 24.0% (1,536) | 52.0pts |
| 2012 | Peter J. Abbate, Jr. 89.4% (12,108) | Vincent Katinas 10.6% (1,429) | 78.8pts |
| 2010 | Peter J. Abbate, Jr. 61.4% (7,416) | Peter Cipriano 38.6% (4,659) | 22.8pts |
| 2008 | Peter J. Abbate, Jr. 71.9% (14,034) | Lucretia Regina-Potter 28.1% (5,487) | 43.8pts |
| 2006 | Peter J. Abbate, Jr. 74.2% (7,884) | Lucretia Regina-Potter 25.8% (2,737) | 48.4pts |
| 2004 | Peter J. Abbate 72.9% (14,553) | Fred Martorell 27.1% (5,417) | 45.8pts |
| 2002 | Peter J. Abbate, Jr. 93.4% (7,603) | Cynthia Gallo 6.6% (541) | 86.8pts |
| 2000 | Peter J. Abbate, Jr. 75.1% (15,705) | Josephine N. Frediani 24.9% (5,212) | 50.2pts |
| 1998 | Peter J. Abbate, Jr. 67.0% (10,249) | Luigi R. Marano 33.0% (5,059) | 34.0pts |
| 1996 | Peter J. Abbate, Jr. 71.5% (13,570) | Vincenzo Di Giacomo 24.1% (4,572) | 47.4pts |
Source: NYS Board of Elections certified results. ⚡ = margin under 10 pts. District history reflects 2022 redistricted boundaries.
Voter Registration
District 49 Profile
Population
113,593
Median income
$65,630
Median rent
$1,741
Homeownership
33.3%
Education (BA+)
25.2%
Poverty rate
21.1%
Uninsured rate
8.1%
Unemployment rate
8.6%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates (2024).
Demographics
White
28.7%
Black
2.0%
Hispanic
18.2%
Asian
51.2%
Median age
40.5
Foreign born
56.6%
Limited English households
37.1%
Veterans
1.4%
Disability rate
9.9%
Commute Mode
Drive alone
17.7%
Public transit
43.7%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Estimates (2024). Race and ethnicity figures may not sum to 100% — Hispanic/Latino is an ethnicity category that overlaps with racial groups.
Legislative Activity (2025–2026)
Bills sponsored
25
Floor debate appearances
25
Years in office
3
Bill sponsorship from NYS Open Legislation API. Joint hearing appearances from NYS Senate hearing transcripts.
Floor Session Activity 2025–2026
A10710
PASSED
2026-04-21
An act to amend the Insurance Law, in relation to including the recommendations of certain entities in the establishment of immunization administration regulations
The Assembly passed A10710, sponsored by Assemblyman Dilan, which amends Insurance Law to allow the Commissioner of Health to recommend immunizations for insurance coverage based on guidance from multiple medical organizations including the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Family Physicians, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and American College of Physicians, as well as other nationally or internationally-recognized scientific organizations. The bill would provide state-level protections should federal immunization policy change adversely. Assemblyman Blankenbush opposed the measure, questioning its necessity and expressing concern that a single commissioner could override federal recommendations when medical organizations disagree. He also criticized the bill's rapid advancement through committee and floor debate, suggesting political motivations. Sponsor Dilan characterized the bill as a safeguard for New York's 19 million residents while maintaining flexibility to adopt sound federal policy. The Majority Conference supported the bill while the Minority Conference generally opposed it, though individual votes could be cast at the desk.
A10711
2026-04-21
An act to amend the Public Health Law, in relation to immunization vaccines for children
The Assembly took up A10711, sponsored by Assemblywoman Paulin, which amends Public Health Law to allow the Commissioner of Health to base immunization standards on recommendations from multiple medical organizations rather than relying solely on the federal Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). The bill was prompted by recent ACIP recommendations that eliminated six of 17 previously mandated vaccines, raising concerns among health commissioners nationwide. Paulin noted that other states with broader discretion for health commissioners were better protected from such changes. The legislation would allow the health commissioner to consider recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American College of Physicians, American Academy of Family Physicians, and other nationally or internationally-recognized scientific organizations. Assemblyman Jensen conducted extensive questioning about the bill's relationship to federal authority, the decision-making processes of the listed medical organizations, and whether the legislation adequately distinguishes between ACIP recommendations and CDC guidance. Paulin clarified the bill applies only to immunizations and vaccines, and that the health commissioner would maintain discretion in making recommendations.
A01234
PASSED
2026-04-21
Vaccine recommendations and medical advisory standards
The Assembly passed a bill allowing New York's health commissioner to base vaccine recommendations on guidance from medical academies rather than solely on federal ACIP/CDC recommendations. During debate, Assemblyman Jensen questioned the transparency and peer-review standards of the academies, asking whether they publish recommendations annually and what would happen if different organizations provided conflicting guidance. Sponsor Assemblywoman Paulin responded that the academies are elected by pediatricians and that the bill gives the commissioner discretion to consider multiple organizations. Assemblywoman Walsh, speaking for the minority, characterized the bill as an overreaction to the current federal administration and noted opposition from the autism and disabilities community. The bill passed with the majority supporting it, though the minority conference voted against it.
S08807
PASSED
2026-03-31
An act to amend the Insurance Law and the General Business Law, in relation to procedures for protections of legally protected health activities
The New York State Assembly passed a chapter amendment to the state's Shield Law protecting access to reproductive and gender-affirming care. The bill, S08807, makes technical modifications to strengthen protections against out-of-state legal actions seeking information about lawful health activities. Key changes include extending the notification timeline to the Attorney General from 72 hours to five business days, expanding professional liability insurance protections beyond medical malpractice, and reducing penalties for intentional violations from $15,000 to $10,000. The sponsor, working with the Governor's office, said the changes improve compliance and conformity throughout the law. The Minority Conference opposed the bill, noting the original legislation passed with bipartisan opposition and the amendments do not address those concerns. The bill passed on a party-line vote.
A01067
PASSED
2026-03-31
An act to amend the Insurance Law, in relation to prohibiting the exclusion of coverage for losses or damages caused by exposure to lead-based paint
The New York State Assembly passed A01067, legislation that would prohibit insurance companies from excluding coverage for losses or damages caused by lead-based paint exposure in rental properties. The bill removes a 1990s Insurance Law exclusion that has prevented tenants from seeking damages through landlord liability coverage. Sponsor Asm. Rivera argued the exclusion prevents tenants from pursuing claims due to fear of landlord retaliation and inability to afford medical expenses, and that removing it would incentivize landlords to remediate lead hazards. He noted that 80% of lead-poisoned children in his district live in rental properties and that New York has the oldest housing inventory among all 50 states. Opponents raised concerns that eliminating the exclusion could cause insurers to raise premiums, withdraw from certain markets, or create perverse incentives for landlords to rely on insurance rather than proactively address hazards. The bill includes a 26-month implementation period. The Minority Conference opposed the measure, while the Majority Conference supported it.
A00622-C
PASSED
2026-03-31
An act to amend the Insurance Law, in relation to health insurance coverage for acupuncture services
The New York State Assembly passed A00622-C, legislation requiring large group health insurers to cover acupuncture treatment upon prescription by a healthcare provider. Sponsor Asm. Kim noted that many insurers already voluntarily cover acupuncture because it saves them money, and that acupuncturists undergo three years of intense medical training. Supporters including Mrs. Peoples-Stokes, Mr. Chang, and Mr. Sayegh emphasized acupuncture's effectiveness for pain management and its long history in Eastern medicine, with Mr. Chang noting the Veterans Administration approves it. Opponents argued the bill represents another insurance mandate that collectively raises premiums and disproportionately affects small and medium-size businesses. Ms. Walsh questioned the inconsistency of mandating private insurers cover acupuncture while the State does not cover it in the Essential Plan. The original bill version required the State to provide coverage but was modified to apply only to private insurers. The Minority Conference opposed the measure while the Majority Conference supported it.
A10102
PASSED
2026-03-30
An act to amend the Real Property Law, in relation to enacting the 'Low Impact Landscaping Rights Act'
The Assembly passed A10102, the 'Low Impact Landscaping Rights Act' sponsored by Assemblywoman Glick, limiting homeowners associations from prohibiting or unreasonably restricting low-impact landscaping installations on residential properties. The bill allows HOAs to deny permission only in common areas or where landscaping would encroach on neighboring properties, and requires HOAs to detail justifications for denials. Glick argued the bill protects homeowners' property rights in response to changing environmental conditions, particularly in flood-prone areas where sustainable landscaping can absorb water and prevent property damage. She cited Long Island water commissioners' statements supporting sustainable gardens for aquifer protection. The bill mirrors existing protections for solar systems and electric vehicle charging stations. Assemblyman Gandolfo opposed the measure as an encroachment on voluntary contracts, noting Governor Hochul vetoed similar legislation last year. He argued residents should lobby their HOA boards rather than have the state override private agreements. The bill passed despite Republican Conference opposition, with several members explaining their votes on constitutional and contractual grounds.
A06285
PASSED
2026-03-24
Mobile Sports Betting Monthly Invoice Bill
The Assembly passed a bill sponsored by Assemblymember Kassay requiring mobile sports betting apps to send monthly invoices to users detailing wagering amounts, winnings, losses, and betting habits, along with problem gambling hotline information. The bill takes effect January 1st following the Governor's signature. Kassay cited alarming statistics: $26 billion wagered in New York in 2025, a 26 percent spike in problem gambling hotline calls, and research suggesting 22 percent of bettors exhibit signs of problem gambling. She noted that minors are accessing betting apps through VPNs and becoming addicted at young ages. Supporters including Ms. Woerner cited expert testimony that providing wagering information helps change behavior. However, Assemblymember Morinello, drawing on his experience representing bookmakers, argued the invoices are ineffective because users already have access to betting information and the real problem is the addictive nature of mobile betting itself. He criticized the state's legalization of mobile betting as a "money grab" without consideration for families and youth. Fitzpatrick similarly opposed the bill, arguing the best solution is to prohibit mobile gambling for ages 18-25 and criticizing the state for promoting VLTs, marijuana, and mobile sports betting to young people. Despite the opposition, the bill passed.
A02332-B
PASSED
2026-03-11
Requiring websites and mobile applications for Electronic Benefit Transfer systems to be offered in the twelve most common non-English languages
The Assembly passed A02332-B, sponsored by Asm. Berger, requiring Electronic Benefit Transfer system websites and mobile applications to be offered in the twelve most common non-English languages. The bill addresses fraud affecting non-English-speaking beneficiaries, with Berger citing 1,900 fraud cases in a neighboring district involving Mandarin and Korean speakers. The measure applies only to the state-contracted ebtEDGE platform operated by Fidelity National Information Services and does not impose new obligations on counties. Assemblywoman Walsh, who opposed the bill last year, changed her position after clarification that it targets only state-level systems. Walsh noted the bill helps prevent waste, fraud and abuse by enabling beneficiaries to report theft and manage their cards in their preferred languages. The bill takes effect on the 30th day.
A09113-A
PASSED
2026-03-10
Coerced debt; allows victims of coerced debt to challenge burdensome debt incurred through abuse
The Assembly passed legislation on March 10 allowing victims of coerced debt to challenge burdensome obligations incurred through domestic abuse. Sponsored by Assemblywoman Rosenthal, the bill drew debate over its enforceability when debt is sold to out-of-state collectors. Assemblymember Chang questioned whether debtors would have adequate protection if creditors transfer debt to third parties outside New York, while Assemblywoman Walsh expressed concern the bill needs refinement despite sympathizing with abuse survivors. Rosenthal argued creditors have sufficient resources to dispute claims and that the legislation provides necessary relief for abuse survivors rebuilding their lives from economic coercion. The Majority Conference voted in the affirmative; the Minority Conference generally opposed with exceptions allowed. The bill passed.
A06824-B
PASSED
2026-03-05
An act to amend the County Law, in relation to eye and tissue donation
The Assembly passed A06824-B, sponsored by Asm. Woerner, amending County Law to require coroners and coroners' physicians to develop referral protocols for identifying organ donors who have died outside hospital settings. The bill expands opportunities for eye and tissue donation by allowing organ procurement organizations to verify donor registry and make suitability determinations for individuals who pass away outside healthcare systems. Supporters noted that each donation can change or save lives for up to 70 people. Ms. Walsh credited a Saratoga County coroner for proposing the legislation, which aims to increase organ and tissue donation rates across the state.
A06903-B
PASSED
2026-03-05
An act to amend the Labor Law, in relation to requiring public and not-for-profit libraries develop and implement programs to protect library employees
The Assembly passed A06903-B, sponsored by Asm. Bronson, requiring public and not-for-profit libraries to develop and implement workplace safety programs to protect employees. Supporters highlighted that libraries, as public spaces open to all, experience disruptions and safety incidents, including contentious custodial exchanges. Asm. Kay noted that safety concerns have become the primary issue raised by libraries in her district. The legislation aims to restore libraries as peaceful spaces for learning and reflection while ensuring employee protection.
A09432
PASSED
2026-01-29
Custom fabrication prevailing wage bill (chapter amendment to prior legislation)
The Assembly passed a chapter amendment to custom fabrication prevailing wage legislation sponsored by Asm. Bronson after heated debate over its impact on small businesses and construction costs. The amendment removed contentious "significant portion" language and added explicit exclusions for transportation infrastructure. Supporters, including Asm. Bronson and union member Asm. Durso, argued prevailing wage does not significantly increase costs and benefits local economies. Opponents, including Asm. Tague and Asm. DiPietro, warned of job losses and logistical nightmares, with DiPietro citing a specific case where a company canceled an 18-acre expansion project, eliminating 140 jobs. Asm. Sempolinski, who voted no on the original bill, voted yes on the amendment, calling the transportation exclusion "a massive change" that addressed his concerns. The bill passed with the amendments.
A09217 / S____
2026-01-28
An act to amend the Penal Law and Education Law in relation to excluding certain medication from being deemed unlawful to prescribe or dispense; and to amend the Education Law in relation to excluding certain medication from being deemed misbranded.
The New York State Assembly debated A09217, sponsored by Assemblywoman Paulin, which would protect healthcare providers from criminal penalties under state law if the FDA changes its approval or labeling of Mifepristone and other medication abortion drugs. The bill would allow existing drugs already on pharmacy shelves to continue being dispensed even if federal approval status changes, and would align New York's standards with World Health Organization guidance rather than FDA requirements. Supporters argued the measure protects women's access to medication abortion, which has been safely used in 100 countries and is the primary form of abortion in New York. Opponents, including Assemblywoman Walsh, Assemblyman Durso, and Assemblyman Smullen, raised constitutional concerns about bypassing FDA authority in favor of WHO guidance, particularly after the U.S. formally withdrew from the WHO on January 22, 2025. Critics also questioned the bill's consistency, noting it exempts only abortion medications from FDA oversight while not addressing other drugs with comparable or worse safety profiles. Durso raised practical concerns about whether the bill protects only dispensers or also patients and those transporting the drug across state lines. The debate remained unresolved at the time of this transcript segment, with no vote recorded.
A02747-A / S COMPANION NOT STATED
PASSED
2025-06-17
An act to amend the Labor Law, in relation to inclusion of certain off-site custom fabrication as public work for the purposes of payment of prevailing wage
The Assembly passed A02747-A, sponsored by Assemblyman Bronson, which includes certain off-site custom fabrication as public work subject to prevailing wage requirements. The bill drew mixed support. Assemblywoman Giglio backed the measure, arguing it creates a level playing field for New York manufacturers competing with out-of-state and foreign companies and ensures prevailing wage and project labor agreements are in place for state-funded projects. However, Assemblyman Tague opposed it as increasing costs for local taxpayers, and Assemblywoman Walsh reversed her prior-year support after discussing significant recordkeeping burdens with a small business owner in her district.
A08662-A / S08432
2025-06-17
An act to amend the Limited Liability Company Law, in relation to the scope of certain provisions relating to beneficial owners of limited liability companies
The Assembly debated A08662-A, sponsored by Assemblywoman Gallagher, which modifies LLC Law definitions of beneficial owner, reporting company, and exempt company by removing Federal Corporate Transparency Act cross-references and providing state-specific definitions. Gallagher characterized the measure as a technical fix clarifying existing law. However, the bill faced significant opposition. Assemblyman Lemondes argued it imposes $5 billion in compliance costs on small businesses, invades privacy, increases cyber security risks, and worsens out-migration—New York already ranks 50th nationally in business climate. Assemblyman Blumencranz questioned why the state would adopt language Federal courts found unconstitutional and the Federal Government abandoned after FinCEN rescinded the beneficial ownership reporting requirement in March 2025. He argued the bill creates two different compliance standards and lacks empirical evidence of crime deterrence. Gallagher maintained the bill is purely technical and does not change existing law.
A8662-A
PASSED
2025-06-17
LLC Transparency Act - Definition Codification (Technical Amendment)
The Assembly passed A8662-A, a technical amendment to the LLC Transparency Act that codifies Federal beneficial ownership definitions into state law. Sponsor Asm. Gallagher characterized the bill as a necessary fix to fill a gap created when Federal law changed, maintaining no new policy or exemptions were introduced. However, opponents including Asm. Blumencranz and Asm. Ra argued the bill represents substantive policy-making, not a technical fix, as it explicitly places into state law definitions previously referenced by Federal citation. Critics raised concerns about duplicative compliance burdens on small businesses, data security risks, and the bill's exemption of large financial institutions while targeting smaller LLCs. The Business Council strongly opposed the legislation, calling it regulatory overreach that will accelerate business exodus from New York. A procedural dispute arose over whether questions about Federal enforcement changes were germane; the Acting Speaker ruled they were not, and that ruling was upheld on appeal. The bill passed on a party-line vote, with the Republican Conference voting in opposition.
A03351
PASSED
2025-06-17
Party voter registration challenge procedures for parties without county committees
The Assembly passed a bill extending to minor parties without county committees the ability to challenge voter registrations for party affiliation—a power currently available only to major parties. The measure sparked heated debate, with supporters arguing it levels the playing field and prevents party lines from being 'hijacked,' while opponents contended it is unconstitutional, removes local party control, and was specifically designed to address the 2024 NY-17 congressional race involving the Working Families Party. Multiple members cited the case of Anthony Frascone, who secured a Working Families Party ballot line without running a campaign. Sponsor Asm. Levenberg argued the bill ensures all parties with enrolled voters can challenge those not in sympathy with party principles. Critics, including Asm. Tague and Asm. Ra, called the bill a partisan power grab that allows unelected state bodies to determine voters' political beliefs. The bill passed on a slow roll call vote late on the final day of the legislative session.
A05346
PASSED
2025-06-17
Labor relations bill establishing PERB jurisdiction over workers' organizing rights when federal NLRB fails to act
The Assembly passed legislation establishing a backstop mechanism for workers' organizing rights, allowing the state's Public Employment Relations Board to enforce collective bargaining protections when the federal National Labor Relations Board fails to act. Sponsored by Assemblyman Bronson, the bill defers to federal authority but empowers PERB to step in if the NLRB cannot exercise jurisdiction due to vacancies, staff shortages, or other federal failures. Bronson argued that the Trump administration has effectively disabled the NLRB by reducing it below quorum, cutting staff by 45 percent, and gutting federal mediation programs—while simultaneously litigating the NLRB's constitutionality in federal courts. He contended that New York's Constitution guarantees workers the right to organize and collectively bargain, and the state must fulfill that duty. Assemblywoman Walsh opposed the measure as "Trump-proofing," questioning why the legislature should change a statute in place since 1967 based on dissatisfaction with the current federal administration, noting that similar NLRB quorum issues in 2012 did not prompt such action. Bronson distinguished the current situation as involving affirmative federal hostility toward workers' rights, not merely procedural vacancies.
A08427-A / S08416
PASSED
2025-06-17
An act to amend the General Business Law, in relation to enacting the 'Fostering Affordability and Integrity through Reasonable (FAIR) Business Practices Act'
The Assembly passed the FAIR Business Practices Act (A08427-A/S08416), a landmark modernization of New York's consumer protection law that for the first time in 55 years expands the Attorney General's enforcement authority beyond deceptive practices to include unfair and abusive business practices. Sponsored by Assemblyman Lasher, the bill adopts definitions drawn from federal law—the Federal Trade Commission standard for unfairness (in place since 1980) and the Consumer Financial Protection Act's definition of abusive practices (2010)—making the standards familiar to businesses already operating under federal law. Lasher cited real New York cases involving insurance companies denying coverage, fraudulently inducing consumers with limited English proficiency, negligent claims handling, and backdating policies—all instances where relief was denied under the current statute. The bill does not affect individual New Yorkers' existing limited right to sue. Assemblywoman Walsh raised concerns about the subjectivity of the "abusive" definition and whether the bill grants excessive discretion to the Attorney General, but Lasher argued the approach mirrors federal practice and that 42 other states already prohibit unfair practices.
A07111 / S07111
PASSED
2025-06-17
An act to amend the General Business Law in relation to unfair, deceptive, or abusive acts or practices
The Assembly passed legislation expanding the Attorney General's authority to prosecute unfair, deceptive, or abusive business practices, removing the current "consumer-oriented" limitation that courts have imposed over 45 years. Sponsor Asm. Lasher argued the bill clarifies existing AG authority and relies on well-settled Federal Trade Commission definitions to protect consumers and small businesses. Opponents, led by Asm. Walsh and Asm. Ra, contended the measure grants excessive discretion to the AG and extends enforcement beyond consumer transactions into business-to-business disputes using vague standards. Asm. Molitor raised constitutional concerns, arguing the bill violates the state constitution by referencing Federal case law without statutory definition. The Majority Conference voted in favor while the Minority Conference opposed the measure. A party vote was requested. The bill passed on June 17, 2025.
A777
PASSED
2025-06-17
Library book collection management and school library materials
The Assembly passed A777, legislation that grants the State Education Commissioner authority over school library book collections, in a contentious floor debate on June 17 that exposed deep divisions over intellectual freedom, parental rights, and local control. Supporters, including Assemblywoman Shimsky, argued the bill protects students' access to books that help them understand their identities and prevents censorship that corrodes democracy. Opponents, led by Assemblyman Durso and others, contended the measure strips authority from locally elected school boards and parents, arguing the real issue is age-appropriate placement of sexually explicit materials in children's sections, not book banning. Several members expressed concerns about granting excessive power to the Education Commissioner. The bill passed without a recorded tally being announced in this segment.
A8869 / S8411
2025-06-17
Attorney General enforcement powers across multiple areas including FOIL, gun clearinghouse access, civil rights enforcement, education discrimination, and hospital bill compromises
The Assembly took up A8869/S8411, a comprehensive bill expanding the Attorney General's enforcement powers across six areas of law, during floor debate on June 17. Sponsor Assemblywoman Romero argued the legislation codifies existing authority, aligns with federal practices, and improves government efficiency by reducing bureaucratic delays in civil rights enforcement, gun violence investigations, and other areas. The bill would grant the AG direct real-time access to the Criminal Gun Clearinghouse, expand FOIL denial grounds for civil investigations, and authorize civil actions against repeated or persistent discrimination in schools and other entities. However, Assemblywoman Walsh raised significant concerns about the bill's scope and lack of stakeholder input, noting that six major education groups—including the New York State School Boards Association, PTA, and Conference of Big 5 School Districts—strongly oppose the legislation, stating their concerns were not addressed during development. Walsh particularly questioned undefined language in the education section that would grant the AG broad discretion to determine what constitutes 'repeated or persistent discrimination.'
A00066-A
PASSED
2025-06-16
An act to amend the Social Services Law, in relation to the administration of the Statewide Central Register of Child Abuse and Maltreatment
The Assembly passed legislation on June 16 that would end anonymous reporting to New York's State Central Register of Child Abuse and Maltreatment, requiring callers to provide their name and contact information. Sponsor Assemblyman Hevesi argued the change is necessary to prevent malicious false reports, particularly in domestic violence situations, and to address racial disparities in child protective services investigations. He cited data showing Black families are investigated at seven times the rate of white families. The bill includes safeguards: callers who refuse identification are referred to a supervisor who can reassure them about confidentiality protections, refer them to 911 for immediate complaints, or direct them to the HEARS community service line. Opponents, led by Assemblywoman Walsh, warned the requirement would discourage legitimate reports from neighbors and others who fear retaliation, potentially leaving abused children unprotected. Walsh noted opposition from the New York Public Welfare Association, family court judges, and caseworkers. The bill passed with some Republican opposition and at least one Democratic defection.
A06757 / S06757
PASSED
2025-06-16
Peer-to-peer vehicle rental insurance requirements
The Assembly passed legislation reducing minimum insurance requirements for peer-to-peer vehicle rental companies, lowering the threshold from $1.25 million to $75,000-$150,000. Sponsor Assemblymember Weprin argued the higher requirement was preventing market competition and that competitor Getaround left New York specifically citing the mandate. However, opponents including Assemblymembers Ra, Durso, Chang, and Jensen raised public safety concerns, noting that the online-only transaction model lacks the verification procedures of traditional rental companies and that unvetted drivers operating unverified vehicles warrant higher insurance coverage. The bill passed with support from the Majority Conference, though Republicans generally opposed it. Several members explained their votes, with Assemblymember Steck voting yes after determining that existing statute requires the company to defend vehicle owners against lawsuits, and Assemblymember Jensen voting no, arguing the change was premature given that Turo remains profitable.
Source: Official NY Assembly floor session transcripts (Granicus). AI-processed. Includes sessions from 2023 onward where transcripts are available.
Bill Focus Areas 2025–2026
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Grouped by law section from sponsored Assembly bills. Source: NYS Open Legislation API.
Lobbying Activity
No lobbying disclosures on record for this member in the available dataset (JCOPE filings targeting Assembly members).
Source: NY Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government via data.ny.gov.