Asm. Christopher Eachus

Members expressed support for providing free fishing privileges to veterans in state parks as a benefit to those who have served. Discussion included clarification that state boat launches should be included in the benefit.

Described a 2023 storm in his district where nearly 600 homeowners had damage but only five collected insurance because flood coverage was not clearly understood. Argued the bill will help consumers understand what is and is not covered by their policies.

Described a 2023 storm in his district where nearly 600 homeowners had damage but only five collected insurance because flood coverage was not clearly understood. Argued the bill will help consumers understand what is and is not covered by their policies.

Stated that existing PSC rules have been in place for decades but failed to prevent Central Hudson from billing customers incorrectly for months, causing thousands in losses. He emphasized ongoing constituent complaints about estimated billing problems.

Shared that he had 13 foster siblings over his lifetime and witnessed many arrive with belongings only in garbage bags or their hands. Stated the bill will make foster youth feel more worthwhile and at home, and supports the small expenditure.

Discussed the Purple Heart Hall of Honor in New Windsor, dedicated in 2006, which collects stories of Purple Heart recipients and encouraged colleagues to engage veterans' organizations.

Ms. Walsh explained her support for chapter amendments to the original bill that add flexibility for school districts to improve classroom conditions when temperatures rise, calling the approach pragmatic.

The bill addresses an educational and safety problem as e-bikes and e-scooters proliferate. After 40 years teaching high schoolers, the sponsor argues common sense cannot be assumed and the notice educates both purchasers and riders about pedestrian safety and local laws.

Stated he prefers judges with legal training and education, and emphasized the bill provides an option, not a mandate.

As a teacher of 40 years, the sponsor argued that common sense cannot be assumed, citing examples of teenagers and middle schoolers ignoring obvious safety rules. The bill is a reasonable safety and educational measure to protect citizens.

The bill would prohibit Executive agencies from contracting, subcontracting, or hiring third parties to perform services ordinarily performed by state employees subject to collective bargaining agreements during a hiring freeze. Sponsor Eachus argued the measure protects job security and ensures high-quality state services. Opponent Goodell raised concerns that the blanket ban could force overworked employees to double up on duties during staffing shortages, prevent temporary help for special projects, and restrict emergency response capabilities, though he acknowledged the sponsor's intent to protect employees.

Emphasized the bill is desperately needed because EMS units responding to Thruway emergencies previously had to pay tolls and apply for reimbursement. Noted this is one of seven bills needed to rescue EMS services from desperate situations and urged passage of the remaining six bills during the session.

Assemblyman Goodell raised constitutional and fairness concerns with the bill, arguing it inappropriately allows parties to appeal to the Court of Appeals based on legislative changes that occur after the initial Court of Appeals ruling. Goodell contended that lawsuits should be resolved based on the law existing when the action was commenced, not on subsequent legislative changes, and questioned whether the provision raises due process issues.

Described a July 9th rainstorm in his district that damaged hundreds of homes. Insurance companies denied claims citing flood damage, but each company defined 'flood' differently. Victims are now denied flood insurance because their homes were previously flooded. Standardized definitions are essential to prevent this injustice.

As a fellow scientist, confirmed that all scientists believe in the bill after reviewing the sponsor's research and stated the bill protects citizens.

Neighboring district to sponsor, constituents suffered same billing problems. Noted utility recently requested 28% rate increase, so asking them to perform their duty is not unfair.

Expressed support for the budget in brief remarks.

Briefly stated support for budget.

Briefly stated support for the budget.

Clarified that the bill requires zero emission vehicles broadly, not just electric, and noted other technologies like hydrogen exist. Emphasized the bill only requires agencies to develop a plan within nine months.

Presented data showing New York ranks last in organ donor registration (35% vs. 56% nationally) and that every 18 hours a resident dies waiting for an organ. He explained the bill removes financial barriers and provides reimbursement for living donors to increase availability and save lives.