Thruway toll exemption for Central New York I-81 construction
The Assembly passed legislation providing a temporary toll exemption on select New York State Thruway exits in Central New York during the I-81 reconstruction project. Sponsor Asm. Magnarelli said the measure is necessary to divert local traffic from congested side roads and improve safety during the major construction undertaking in the Syracuse area. The bill allows the Thruway Authority to implement fees if needed to offset lost revenue, estimated at approximately $11 million annually based on 2016 permit data. Opponents, including Asm. Fitzpatrick and Asm. Reilly, warned the five-year temporary exemption will likely be extended, setting a precedent for other regions to demand similar benefits. Asm. Reilly drew parallels to Staten Island's annual fight to maintain Verrazano Bridge resident discounts. The bill passed with Asm. Glick voting in the affirmative after requesting to explain her vote.
An act to amend Chapter 332 of the Laws of 2019, amending the Tax Law relating to authorizing the County of Madison to impose an additional mortgage recording tax, in relation to extending the effectiveness thereof
An act to amend the Tax Law, in relation to authorizing an occupancy tax in the City of Oneonta; and providing for the repeal of such provisions upon the expiration thereof
An act to amend the Tax Law, in relation to authorizing an occupancy tax in the City of Oneonta; and providing for the repeal of such provisions upon the expiration thereof
An act to amend the Veterans' Services Law, in relation to Certificates of Honorable Separation from or services in the Armed Forces of the United States
An act to amend Chapter 549 of the Laws of 2005 amending the Tax Law relating to authorizing the County of Herkimer to impose a county recording tax on obligation secured by a mortgage on real property in relation to extending the effectiveness thereof
An act to amend Chapter 549 of the Laws of 2005 amending the Tax Law relating to authorizing the County of Herkimer to impose a county recording tax on obligation secured by a mortgage on real property in relation to extending the effectiveness thereof
An act to amend the Tax Law, in relation to extending the period during which the County of Herkimer is authorized to impose additional sales and compensating use taxes
An act to authorize Richard Lee Johnson to take the competitive Civil Service examination for the position of police officer and be placed on the eligible list for employment as a full-time police officer for the Village of Canastota Police Department
An act to authorize Richard Lee Johnson to take the competitive Civil Service examination for the position of police officer and be placed on the eligible list for employment as a full-time police officer for the Village of Canastota Police Department
An act to authorize Richard Lee Johnson to take the competitive Civil Service examination for the position of police officer and be placed on the eligible list for employment as a full-time police officer for the Village of Canastota Police Department
An act to amend the Environmental Conservation Law, in relation to prohibiting the application of pesticides to certain local freshwater wetlands
The Assembly debated A09712/S09379, which would allow local governments to prohibit pesticide applications on freshwater wetlands hydrologically connected to drinking water sources. Sponsor Assemblyman Burdick defended the narrowed bill as a reasonable protection for drinking water, noting it includes exemptions for commercial agriculture and invasive species control, and that municipalities have successfully managed wetlands regulations for over 60 years. However, opponents including Assemblymen Simpson, Miller, Manktelow and Assemblywoman Giglio raised substantial concerns that the bill would undermine the Department of Environmental Conservation's established pesticide regulatory program, create confusion through undefined terms, and burden local governments lacking scientific expertise. Simpson cited the Governor's veto message opposing the bill. Manktelow, a farmer with pesticide licenses, argued EPA labels already specify application restrictions and questioned whether the sponsor consulted with agricultural communities, particularly in Western New York. The debate did not conclude with a vote in this segment.
An act to amend the Environmental Conservation Law, in relation to prohibiting the application of pesticides to certain local freshwater wetlands
The Assembly debated A09712/S09379, which would allow local governments to prohibit pesticide applications in freshwater wetlands connected to drinking water sources. Sponsor Asm. Burdick said the bill narrowly targets wetlands hydrologically linked to reservoirs and Class A waterways, includes exemptions for commercial agriculture and invasive species control, and represents a significant narrowing from prior versions. However, opponents including Asm. Simpson, Miller, Giglio, and Manktelow raised substantial concerns that the bill would undermine the Department of Environmental Conservation's established pesticide regulatory program, create confusion through undefined terms, and lack scientific requirements for local bans. Manktelow, a farmer with pesticide licenses, emphasized that EPA and DEC labels already specify application restrictions and questioned how municipalities would maintain consistency as town boards change. Simpson cited the Governor's veto message warning the bill would lead to "confusion and inconsistent application of State laws." Burdick acknowledged not consulting with farming communities or the Farm Bureau, saying he had left an unreturned phone message months earlier. The bill received no vote in this segment.
An act to amend the General Business Law, in relation to prohibiting unsolicited telemarketing sales calls during certain declared states of emergency
Chapter Amendment to the Birds and Bees Protection Act; regulation of neonicotinoid-treated seeds and pesticides
The Assembly debated a chapter amendment to the Birds and Bees Protection Act (A08571/S08031) that delays restrictions on neonicotinoid-treated seeds by two years to 2029 and ornamental/turf uses by 12-18 months. Sponsor Assemblywoman Glick explained the delays provide time for regulatory development and integrated pest management training expansion, citing precedent from Quebec and EU bans on the neurotoxins. However, rural representatives expressed deep concern that the timeline is unrealistic without viable alternatives. Assemblyman Tague warned the restrictions will force farms out of business, citing a recent loss of 3,000 New York farms and a decline from 9,300 dairy farms in 1997 to fewer than 3,000 today. Assemblyman Manktelow noted the required IPM training course does not yet exist, while Assemblyman Lemondes highlighted a critical shortage of entomologists needed to implement the training. Assemblyman Miller argued the EPA and Cornell should have developed alternatives before any ban. The amendment also revises the waiver process, limiting waivers to two years and requiring farmers to complete IPM training and pest assessments. No vote was taken during this segment.
Adjusting tax rates on gaming revenues in certain regions and vendor fees for tracks in Oneida County
The Assembly passed legislation adjusting tax rates on gaming revenues in certain regions and vendor fees for tracks in Oneida County. Assemblyman Miller explained that the bill provides relief to Vernon Downs racino in his district by adjusting tax rates relative to employment numbers. The legislation will save 250 union and 40 non-union jobs at Vernon Downs and prevent its closure, according to Miller. Vernon Downs is in its 70th season of harness racing and has contributed nearly $2 million to local education. Assemblywoman Buttenschon noted the bill's importance to approximately 150 families concerned about the facility's future.
Birds and Bees Protection Act - amending Environmental Conservation Law to prohibit sale of seeds treated with neonicotinoids
The New York State Assembly debated A07640, the Birds and Bees Protection Act, which would prohibit the sale of seeds treated with neonicotinoid pesticides, with implementation delayed to January 1, 2027. Sponsor Assemblywoman Glick cited over 1,000 peer-reviewed studies and European Union precedent showing the chemicals harm pollinators without significant crop yield loss. The bill includes amendments allowing the DEC Commissioner and Agriculture & Markets Commissioner to temporarily suspend the ban if untreated seeds are unavailable or environmental emergencies arise. Opponents, led by Assemblyman Tague, a farmer, argued the ban will force growers to use larger-scale pesticide applications, reduce yields by up to 40 percent according to Farm Bureau estimates, and increase costs. Assemblyman Miller questioned whether adequate economic impact studies and stakeholder consultation occurred, noting 75 percent of New York corn and soybeans currently use neonics. Assemblyman Manktelow raised concerns about the October decision deadline for commissioners, arguing it precedes actual market knowledge of seed availability. The debate reflected fundamental disagreement over pollinator protection versus agricultural productivity and farmer economic viability.
An act to amend the Public Health Law, in relation to requiring camps and youth sports programs to establish an automated external defibrillator implementation plan
The Assembly debated A366-A, sponsored by Asm. Otis, which would require camps and youth sports programs to develop automated external defibrillator (AED) implementation plans within 180 days. The bill addresses sudden cardiac arrest in youth, citing national data showing 14,000 incidents annually among youth under 18, with only 10% survival rates. Otis cited the Damar Hamlin incident as a catalyst and noted local cases where AED availability saved lives. The bill requires programs to submit plans to the Department of Health but includes no penalties for non-compliance and no implementation deadline beyond the 180-day planning period. Multiple members raised concerns about unfunded mandate costs—AEDs cost approximately $1,500 each with replacement pads needed every two years—and practical challenges for volunteer-run organizations. Asm. Walsh and Goodell questioned whether the mandate would force cancellation of practices if trained personnel were unavailable. Asm. Tague and Durso supported the safety goal but urged state funding through grants. Otis indicated he would seek budget funding in future years and noted an existing tax credit for AED donations. No vote was taken during this segment.
An act to amend the Public Officers Law, in relation to waiving the residency requirement for the Herkimer County Commissioner of Social Services
Source: Official NY Assembly floor session transcripts (Granicus). AI-processed. Includes sessions from 2023 onward where transcripts are available.