Asm. Christopher Friend — The Commons Gallery

Christopher Friend has represented AD-124 since 2011 in a district carrying an R+16 registration lean and a base electoral model of R+20, running uncontested in both 2022 and 2024; when contested, his margins have been consistent, reaching 28.6 points in 2020 and 30.6 points in 2016, placing the seat in the Safe R category across all modeled scenarios. The district is predominantly rural and white (88.2%), with a 72.5% homeownership rate, a median household income of $66,926, a poverty rate of 15.7%, and Republican registration at 42.4% against 26.2% Democratic. Friend's 2025 session sponsorship spans 21 bills, with focus areas including Executive (2 bills), Tax (2 bills), and single-bill entries in General Obligations, Retirement and Social Security, Constitution, and Tioga County-specific legislation.AI

Vulnerability Index AD-124

Base lean: R+20

Favorable D

Likely R

Neutral

Safe R

Favorable R

Safe R

Limited contested election data — registration lean used as primary signal
Ran uncontested in most recent election

Scenario model: ±5pt national environment shift applied to district base lean (R+20). 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-124

General Elections

Year	Winner	Runner-up	Margin
2024	Christopher S. Friend 100.0% (46,573)	Uncontested	—
2022	Christopher S. Friend 100.0% (36,564)	Uncontested	—
2020	Christopher S. Friend 64.3% (37,976)	Randy Reid 35.7% (21,053)	28.6pts
2018	Christopher S. Friend 62.0% (28,293)	Bill Batrowny 38.0% (17,340)	24.0pts
2016	Christopher S. Friend 65.3% (34,344)	Bill Batrowny 34.7% (18,219)	30.6pts
2014	Christopher S. Friend 100.0% (27,439)	Uncontested	—
2012	Christopher S. Friend 100.0% (37,789)	Uncontested	—
2010	William A. Barclay 100.0% (31,301)	Uncontested	—
2008	William А. Barclay 66.8% (34,594)	Jerome L. Burns 33.2% (17,198)	33.6pts
2006	William A. Barclay 55.6% (22,855)	J. Edward Putnam 44.4% (18,286)	11.2pts
2004	William A. Barclay 100.0% (39,125)	Uncontested	—
2002	Will Barclay 59.6% (22,815)	E. Clyde Ohl 40.4% (15,437)	19.2pts
2000	Robert J. Warner 92.8% (27,409)	Victor M. Salcedo 7.2% (2,135)	85.6pts
1998	Robert J. Warner 100.0% (22,168)	Uncontested	—
1996	Robert J. Warner 65.1% (26,521)	Pete Charnetsky 34.9% (14,211)	30.2pts

Primary Elections

Year	Winner	Runner-up	Margin
2020 (Republican)	Christopher S. Friend 74.6% (6,014)	RC Ike 25.4% (2,048)	49.2pts
2018 (Democratic)	Bill Batrowny 53.8% (2,597)	Randy Reid 46.2% (2,226)	⚡ 7.6pts

Source: NYS Board of Elections certified results. ⚡ = margin under 10 pts. District history reflects 2022 redistricted boundaries.

Voter Registration

26%

42%

31%

Dem 26.2% Rep 42.4% Ind/Other 31.5%

District 124 Profile

Population 132,819

Median income $66,926

Median rent $1,009

Homeownership 72.5%

Education (BA+) 25.8%

Poverty rate 15.7%

Uninsured rate 3.7%

Unemployment rate 6.1%

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates (2024).

Demographics

White 88.2%

Black 4.6%

Hispanic 3.2%

Asian 1.3%

Median age 43.4

Foreign born 3.0%

Limited English households 1.0%

Veterans 8.4%

Disability rate 16.7%

Commute Mode

Drive alone 79.3%

Public transit 0.8%

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)

21

25

Years in office 15

Bill sponsorship from NYS Open Legislation API. Joint hearing appearances from NYS Senate hearing transcripts.

Floor Session Activity 2025–2026

A04849 PASSED 2026-03-18

Microplastics in washing machines - filter requirement

The Assembly passed legislation requiring washing machines sold in New York to include filters preventing microplastics from entering wastewater. Sponsor Assemblywoman Kelles argued microplastics are a widespread environmental and health threat found in water, soil, air, and human bodies, and that the technology has existed for two decades. She noted support from farmers, hunters, and bipartisan backing. Opponents, including Assemblywoman Giglio, cited California Governor Newsom's 2023 veto of similar legislation due to affordability concerns and questioned why New York should be the first state to impose such requirements. Assemblyman Sempolinski opposed the bill as an example of New York imposing costly regulations that drive businesses elsewhere. The bill passed with a party vote requested, indicating mixed support across the chamber.

A00536-A PASSED 2026-03-11

Amends Insurance Law to require insurers to provide summaries of readable and understandable insurance policies for auto and homeowners coverage

The Assembly passed A00536-A, requiring insurers to provide auto and homeowners policyholders with simplified, readable summaries of their coverage, on a party-line vote with the Majority Conference supporting and the Minority Conference opposing. Sponsor Asm. Paulin explained the bill mandates a one-page summary in large print and plain English covering coverage limits, policy terms, premiums, and major exclusions—information not currently consolidated in Declaration Pages. Paulin cited her personal experience with a missing auto policy exclusion when her daughter was hit by a car, arguing the summary would help consumers understand their policies. Opponents, led by Asm. Blankenbush, a licensed insurance agent since 1986, contended the required information already appears on Declaration Pages and that mandating a summary in red ink would only increase costs without benefit, as most consumers do not read policies. Mr. Gandolfo criticized the bill as government bureaucracy, noting it requires a 210-day advisory committee process to produce the summary. Mrs. Peoples-Stokes defended the bill, suggesting AI technology could easily create summaries at minimal cost to large insurance companies. The bill takes effect October 1st.

A03397-A PASSED 2026-02-03

An act to amend the Veterans' Service Law, in relation to revising the New York State Veteran's Memorial and Monument Registry

The Assembly passed A03397-A, sponsored by Asm. Raga, which expands the New York State Veteran's Memorial and Monument Registry to include monuments in addition to memorials. The bill aims to make it easier for families, friends, and fellow veterans to locate and honor specific monuments and memorials dedicated to acts of valor and military service. Raga stated the measure represents a step toward keeping the promise to never forget the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces.

A03307-A / S03307 PASSED 2025-06-11

An act to amend the Uniform Commercial Code, in relation to addressing emerging technologies

The Assembly passed A03307-A, sponsored by Asm. Bores, updating New York's Uniform Commercial Code to address emerging technologies including digital currency and digital transactions. The bill brings New York into alignment with other states that have already updated their UCC provisions. Bores, who sponsored the measure, described it as the longest bill he has ever passed and noted it was extensively vetted by national groups and Assembly staff. The update comes more than a decade after New York last revised its model UCC bill in 2014. Bores said the changes will help maintain New York's status as a business-friendly state.

A00029 PASSED 2025-03-03

An act to amend the State Law, in relation to designating the State of New York a Purple Heart State

The Assembly passed A29, designating New York State as a Purple Heart State, with multiple members explaining their votes in support. Asm. McDonald, the primary sponsor, noted approximately 19,000 Purple Heart recipients are New York residents or had New York as their state of residence when serving. Asm. Bendett honored his grandfather, a WWII Purple Heart recipient, and acknowledged two Purple Heart recipients in the Chamber. Asm. Eachus highlighted the Purple Heart Hall of Honor in New Windsor, the only national repository of Purple Heart medals in the country, which was dedicated in 2006 and received a $10 million state grant. Asm. Angelino honored four Marine friends who earned Purple Hearts but did not survive. The bill passed unanimously with all members voting affirmatively.

A08907-A PASSED 2024-06-10

Warehouse Worker Injury Reduction Program

The Assembly passed A08907-A, sponsored by Asm. Bronson, requiring warehouse employers to establish injury reduction programs including worksite evaluations, training, and safety protocols. The bill addresses New York's warehouse injury crisis, with injury rates 54 percent higher than the national average and 89 percent of injuries requiring missed work or job transfers. Asm. Goodell supported the bill's core provisions but cautioned that New York's stringent requirements—particularly mandating expensive medical professionals at first aid stations—could discourage warehousing operations in the state. The Business Council opposed the legislation, arguing it duplicates federal OSHA standards and creates unnecessary administrative burdens. The bill passed without recorded vote tallies.

A08575 PASSED 2024-06-10

Permitting the use of snowmobiles on the right-of-way of certain public highways within the Village of Bemus Point in Chautauqua County

The Assembly passed A08575, a bill permitting snowmobile use on certain public highways in the Village of Bemus Point in Chautauqua County, sponsored by Assemblyman Andy Goodell. The vote became an occasion for multiple members to pay tribute to Goodell, who is retiring. Colleagues including Angelino, Walsh, Giglio, Ra, Hawley, and Tague praised Goodell's legal expertise, constitutional knowledge, mentorship, and character. Goodell responded with remarks thanking his colleagues and staff, crediting his team with providing the information and support that enabled his floor work. The chamber observed a moment of reflection on Goodell's service.

A08907-A PASSED 2024-06-07

Warehouse Worker Injury Reduction Program

The Assembly passed A08907-A, sponsored by Asm. Bronson, requiring warehouse employers to establish injury reduction programs including worksite evaluations, training, and safety protocols. The bill addresses New York's warehouse injury crisis, with injury rates 54 percent higher than the national average and 89 percent of injuries requiring missed work or job transfers. Asm. Goodell supported the bill's core provisions but cautioned that New York's stringent requirements—particularly mandating expensive medical professionals at first aid stations—could discourage warehousing operations in the state. The Business Council opposed the legislation, arguing it duplicates federal OSHA standards and creates unnecessary administrative burdens. The bill passed without recorded vote tallies.

A08907-A PASSED 2024-06-07

Warehouse Worker Injury Reduction Program

The Assembly passed A08907-A, sponsored by Asm. Bronson, requiring warehouse employers to establish injury reduction programs including worksite evaluations, training, and safety protocols. The bill addresses New York's warehouse injury crisis, with injury rates 54 percent higher than the national average and 89 percent of injuries requiring missed work or job transfers. Asm. Goodell supported the bill's core provisions but cautioned that New York's stringent requirements—particularly mandating expensive medical professionals at first aid stations—could discourage warehousing operations in the state. The Business Council opposed the legislation, arguing it duplicates federal OSHA standards and creates unnecessary administrative burdens. The bill passed without recorded vote tallies.

A09616-C PASSED 2024-06-06

Stop Hiding Hate Act - requiring social media platforms to report terms of service to New York Attorney General

The Assembly passed the Stop Hiding Hate Act (A09616-C), sponsored by Assemblywoman Lee, requiring social media platforms to report their terms of service to the New York Attorney General on a biannual basis. The bill mandates that platforms consolidate their terms on a state website to increase transparency and combat hate speech proliferation. Supporters argued the measure addresses the role of social media in spreading harmful content and misinformation that fuels real-world violence, citing the 2022 Buffalo mass shooting as evidence. Opponents, led by Assemblyman Goodell, contended the bill imposes unnecessary regulatory burden on businesses, arguing that terms of service are already publicly available and easily accessible online. Goodell warned the measure will increase state costs and make New York less business-friendly. The bill passed with Democratic support; Republicans were generally opposed.

S06635 PASSED 2024-06-05

Workers' Compensation Law amendment — mental injury claims for extraordinary work-related stress

The Assembly passed legislation expanding Workers' Compensation eligibility for mental injury claims to all workers, removing restrictions that previously limited such claims to police officers, firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, and emergency dispatchers. The bill, sponsored by Assemblywoman Reyes and others, allows workers in any profession to file claims for mental injuries stemming from extraordinary work-related stress, provided claims are evaluated by the Workers' Compensation Board and supported by physician diagnosis. Supporters cited examples of nurses during COVID, correction officers, and supermarket workers affected by traumatic events. Opponents, including Assemblywoman Walsh and Assemblyman Goodell, warned the bill lacks clear standards for defining 'extraordinary stress,' could invite fraud and unlimited claims, and would increase costs for businesses already burdened by New York's Workers' Compensation rates, which are 69 percent higher than the national average. The measure passed despite Republican opposition and concerns about unknown fiscal impact.

A10350 / S[NUMBER NOT SPECIFIED] PASSED 2024-06-05

Electronic filing in courts; amending Judiciary Law, Civil Practice Law and Rules, and related statutes

The Assembly passed A10350, legislation that would authorize the Chief Administrative Judge to mandate or make voluntary electronic filing in town, village, and city courts after consulting with local governments and bar associations. The bill passed on a party-line vote, with Democrats supporting and Republicans generally opposing. Supporters argued that electronic filing is standard nationwide and reduces costs and time for litigants. Opponents, led by Asm. Goodell, criticized the Office of Court Administration's history of imposing burdensome rules and expressed concern that small village and town courts lack the resources, technical capability, and funding to implement electronic filing systems. The bill includes exceptions for pro se litigants and attorneys unable to use electronic systems, but does not provide funding to help smaller courts transition to the new system.

A06584 PASSED 2024-06-05

An act to require electric vehicle charging infrastructure in new residential construction

The New York State Assembly passed legislation requiring electric vehicle charging infrastructure in new residential construction on June 5, 2024, after extensive debate over affordability and fairness. The bill, sponsored by Assemblywoman Fahy, mandates that new single-family homes and multi-unit residential buildings include EV charging capability, though affordable housing units are exempt if not tied to a local agreement. Supporters including Assemblymen Jacobson and Steck argued the $10,000 cost is minimal compared to home value increases and that retrofitting existing homes is far more expensive. Opponents including Assemblymen Tague, Friend, and DiPietro contended the mandate makes housing less affordable and should be voluntary rather than required. Assemblywoman Giglio specifically criticized the affordable housing exemption, arguing the State should require charging infrastructure in subsidized projects to prevent low-income residents from being forced to use more expensive gas stations. The bill takes effect April 1, 2025.

S06635 PASSED 2024-06-05

Expand Workers' Compensation claims for mental injury from extraordinary work-related stress to all employees

The Assembly passed legislation expanding Workers' Compensation eligibility for mental injury claims based on extraordinary work-related stress to all employees, removing current restrictions limiting such claims to police officers, firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, and emergency dispatchers. Sponsor Assemblywoman Reyes argued the expansion is necessary to cover workers like nurses, correction officers, and supermarket employees who experience extraordinary stress but are currently excluded. The bill allows claims to be evaluated by the Workers' Compensation Board and a physician rather than requiring a specific work-related emergency. Opponents, including Assemblywoman Walsh and Assemblyman Goodell, raised concerns about undefined standards for "extraordinary stress," potential fraud, unknown costs to businesses, and the impact on New York's already-strained Workers' Compensation system and business climate. Goodell cited New York's 69% higher Workers' Comp rates compared to the national average and the state's loss of 200,000 residents last year. The bill passed without a recorded tally being announced in this segment.

A10350 / S[NUMBER NOT SPECIFIED] PASSED 2024-06-05

Electronic filing in courts; amending Judiciary Law, Civil Practice Law and Rules, Court of Claims Act, and related statutes

The Assembly passed A10350, a bill that would authorize the Chief Administrative Judge to mandate or make voluntary electronic filing in town, village, and city courts after consulting with local governments and bar associations. The bill passed despite significant floor criticism of the Office of Court Administration (OCA). Asm. Goodell, in remarks he noted were among his last before returning to private practice, harshly criticized OCA's historical record of imposing burdensome rules on courts and attorneys. He expressed particular concern that small town and village courts, some serving communities of fewer than 500 residents, lack the resources and technical capability to implement e-filing systems without state funding. Mr. Flood, a practicing attorney, testified that the current e-filing system is not user-friendly and urged OCA to improve it before mandating statewide implementation. Supporters, including sponsor Ms. Shimsky, argued that e-filing is standard nationwide, reduces costs for litigants, and saves time. The Democratic majority supported the bill while Republicans generally opposed it, though the bill ultimately passed.

A06219 / S06584 PASSED 2024-06-05

Electric vehicle charging infrastructure in new construction

The New York State Assembly passed legislation requiring electric vehicle charging infrastructure in new residential construction on June 5, 2024, after extensive debate over affordability and consistency. Sponsored by Assemblywoman Fahy, the bill mandates that new single-family homes and multi-unit residential buildings include EV charging capability, with exemptions for affordable housing units tied to local agreements. Supporters argued that installing charging during new construction costs far less than retrofitting existing homes and is essential to building EV infrastructure needed to meet the state's climate goals. Opponents, primarily Republicans, contended the mandate is unaffordable for homeowners—particularly in rural areas—and inconsistently applied, since single-family homes face requirements while multi-unit apartment builders do not. Some members raised safety concerns citing General Motors warnings about fire risks, while others disputed whether EV technology is truly environmentally clean. Assemblywoman Giglio objected to the affordable housing exemption, arguing the state should require charging infrastructure in subsidized projects so low-income residents are not forced to use more expensive gas stations. The bill takes effect April 1, 2025.

A06159 PASSED 2024-05-13

Food scrap recycling expansion - reducing threshold from 2 tons to 500 pounds per week

The Assembly passed legislation expanding New York's food scrap recycling requirements to smaller restaurants, lowering the threshold from 2 tons to 500 pounds per week. Sponsor Assemblywoman Shimsky argued the measure is essential to combat climate change, noting that food waste comprises 18% of the solid waste stream and methane from decomposition is 80 times more potent than CO2. The bill provides exemptions for the MTA and Staten Island Ferry until 2030 and establishes a Supply Chain Transparency Assistance Program to help small and medium-sized businesses comply. However, Assemblyman Goodell opposed the measure, contending it imposes impractical requirements on small restaurants, including transporting waste up to 50 miles to one of only 44 certified recycling facilities statewide. He questioned whether the bill would simply encourage restaurants to dispose of scraps via garbage disposals into sewers. The Republican Conference generally opposed the bill, though members were permitted to vote individually. The measure passed on a party-line vote.

A494-A PASSED 2024-05-08

Used electric vehicle rebate program expansion

The New York State Assembly passed legislation on May 8 expanding NYSERDA's electric vehicle rebate program to include used vehicles, allowing the agency to offer $2,000 rebates to individuals, municipalities, and institutional buyers purchasing previously owned zero-emission vehicles. The bill, sponsored by Assemblywoman Barrett, drew sharp debate over funding, equity, and program implementation. Supporters, including Assemblymembers Lavine and Steck, argued the expansion is necessary climate action that makes EVs more affordable. Critics, led by Assemblyman Goodell, contended the program uses utility surcharges paid by low-income residents to subsidize expensive vehicles for wealthy buyers, lacks income limits, and provides insufficient detail on eligibility and funding. Multiple members questioned whether NYSERDA has adequate funding and expressed frustration that key implementation details would be determined by the agency rather than in statute. The bill passed with a party-line vote, with the Democratic majority supporting it and Republicans generally opposed, though some members from both parties crossed party lines.

A06413 PASSED 2024-04-03

Relating to wind turbine blade coloring to reduce bird strikes

The Assembly passed legislation requiring wind turbine operators to paint one blade black in an effort to reduce bird strikes, despite significant Republican opposition and concerns from some Democrats about implementation costs and unintended consequences. Sponsor Assemblywoman Glick cited a small Norwegian study showing a 72% reduction in bird strikes with black blade painting, and noted that wind turbines kill approximately 500,000 birds annually according to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services data. However, opponents raised multiple concerns: potential retrofit costs exceeding $500,000 per turbine, aviation safety risks and visibility issues for pilots, possible toxicity of specialized marine paint used on offshore turbines, unresolved impacts on human health from blade flicker effects that can trigger photosensitive epilepsy, and the fact that no other country has adopted the practice due to safety concerns. Assemblywoman Lunsford noted the bill extends the effective date to one year to give businesses time to comply. The Republican Conference opposed the measure, though some members indicated they would support it. The bill passed on a party-line vote with the Democratic majority in favor.

A8866 PASSED 2024-03-12

Prohibition on carbon dioxide fracking (CO2 fracking)

The New York State Assembly passed legislation on March 12 that would ban the use of supercritical carbon dioxide in hydraulic fracturing operations, closing a loophole in the state's existing fracking ban. Sponsored by Assemblywoman Kelles, the bill drew passionate debate between environmental advocates and upstate representatives concerned about economic impacts. Supporters, including scientists and environmental advocates, cited research showing that CO2 fracking creates highly corrosive conditions that can dissolve minerals in rock formations and destabilize groundwater, potentially releasing heavy metals and radon. They argued the state has a duty to protect citizens and that the economic benefits are minimal. Opponents, primarily from upstate districts, contended that natural gas remains essential for millions of New Yorkers and that the state lacks adequate alternative energy infrastructure. They warned the bill would increase utility costs, harm businesses, and force companies to relocate. Some cited the Buffalo Christmas storm as evidence that natural gas was critical for survival when electricity failed. The bill passed, though the final vote tally was not announced in the transcript segment.

A00733-A 2024-01-24

An act to amend the Public Health Law and the Insurance Law, in relation to providing information to patients and the public on policy-based exclusions

The Assembly debated A00733-A, sponsored by Asm. Rozic, which would require hospitals to disclose "policy-based exclusions"—restrictions on medical procedures they are licensed to provide. Sponsor Asm. Paulin argued the bill promotes transparency, citing her sister's near-fatal ectopic pregnancy when a Catholic physician refused to perform a necessary abortion. The bill would require the Department of Health to collect and publish annual lists of such exclusions from general hospitals. Opponents, led by Asm. Walsh, questioned whether the bill adequately distinguishes between religious/moral policy exclusions and legitimate medical limitations like lack of specialized equipment or financial constraints. Walsh noted Catholic hospitals are already identifiable and consistently apply religious directives, and argued existing transparency mechanisms—including abortion finder websites listing 113 providers statewide—already inform patients. Asm. Jensen raised concerns about administrative burden and suggested the Certificate of Need process would be a more efficient reporting mechanism. Mrs. Peoples-Stokes supported the bill as consumer-friendly, sharing her own experience of a daughter born prematurely at a hospital without NICU care. The debate remained unresolved at the end of this transcript segment, with no vote recorded.

A05798 PASSED 2023-06-07

Bicycle safety bill allowing cyclists to treat red lights as stop signs and stop signs as yield signs (Idaho Stop)

The New York State Assembly passed legislation on June 7 allowing cyclists to treat red lights as stop signs and stop signs as yield signs, a measure known as the Idaho Stop. Sponsored by Assemblywoman Pat Fahy, the bill generated heated debate between supporters who cited safety data from Delaware and Idaho showing reduced cyclist fatalities, and opponents primarily from New York City who raised concerns about pedestrian safety in congested urban areas. Supporters argued the measure increases cyclist visibility and allows riders to position themselves safely ahead of trucks. Opponents, including Assemblyman Pirozzolo and Assemblyman Braunstein, called for a carveout for New York City and criticized the lack of input from NYC Department of Transportation. The bill passed with support from the Democratic majority, though Republicans were generally opposed. Several members explained their votes on the floor, with some expressing concerns about enforcement and the need for cyclists to follow existing traffic laws.

A2206 / S834 2023-02-28

An act to amend the Environmental Conservation Law in relation to the carpet collection program

The Assembly debated technical amendments to New York's carpet collection program during floor debate on Rules Report No. 95 (A2206/S834). The bill, sponsored by Asm. Rivera, extends the implementation timeline for a mandatory carpet recycling program from 2024 to 2026 and clarifies that producers must accept all carpet for free recycling regardless of manufacturer. Supporters, including Mrs. Peoples-Stokes, highlighted the environmental and fiscal benefits, noting municipalities spend millions annually disposing of carpet waste in landfills. Opponents including Asm. Goodell, Pirozzolo, and A. Brown argued the law discourages business in New York by imposing $500-per-day fines on retailers for non-compliant producers over whom they have no control, and unfairly disadvantages domestic carpet manufacturers compared to foreign-made flooring products. The debate remained unresolved at the end of the transcript segment.

A02901 PASSED 2023-02-08

An act to amend the Domestic Relations Law, in relation to designating lay individuals to solemnize marriages; and to repeal certain provisions of the Executive Law related thereto

The Assembly passed A02901, sponsored by Asm. Levenberg in her first bill as a member, allowing couples to designate lay individuals as one-day marriage officiants. The legislation, derived from long-championed work by former Assemblywoman Sandy Galef, creates a legal alternative for couples who want to be married by a friend or family member. According to a 2016 survey, 43 percent of U.S. couples now choose friends or relatives as officiants, up from 29 percent in 2009. The chapter amendment grants towns and city clerks authority to designate one-day officiants instead of the Secretary of State. Asm. Shimsky noted the legislation addresses younger generations' preferences and prevents New York from losing business to other states offering similar options. The bill passed with support from multiple members.

S0848 / A01284 PASSED 2023-02-07

An act to amend the Labor Law in relation to the recognition of the establishment of a workplace safety committee by an employer

The Assembly passed legislation extending the timeframe for employers to recognize employee-established workplace safety committees from five to 15 business days. Sponsored by Assemblywoman Reyes, the bill amends the New York HERO Act, which created the nation's first airborne infectious disease standard during the COVID-19 pandemic. The measure applies only to non-unionized public sector employees without collective bargaining agreements. Republican opposition was unanimous, with Assemblyman Goodell criticizing the lack of carve-outs for small employers, absence of waiver provisions for extraordinary circumstances, and the $50 per day minimum fine regardless of employer absence. Assemblyman Pirozzolo, a small businessman, argued the legislation strangles small business, while Assemblyman Angelino, a former union president, contended employees should negotiate directly with employers rather than through the Legislature. Sponsor Reyes emphasized the bill protects workers unable to voice safety concerns through collective bargaining. The Republican Conference voted against the measure; the Majority Conference supported it.

Source: Official NY Assembly floor session transcripts (Granicus). AI-processed. Includes sessions from 2023 onward where transcripts are available.

Bill Focus Areas 2025–2026

bills

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.