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.
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 removes a decades-old insurance law exclusion preventing renters exposed to lead-based paint from seeking damages against landlords. Sponsored by Asm. Rivera, the bill would require liability insurance policies to cover losses and damages caused by lead-based paint exposure, with a 26-month implementation period. Rivera argued the exclusion prevents tenants from pursuing claims due to fear of landlord retaliation and inability to pay medical expenses, noting that 80 percent of lead-poisoned children in his district live in rental properties. New York has the oldest housing inventory among all 50 states. Opponents, including Asm. Gandolfo and Molitor, raised concerns that the bill could incentivize landlords to rely on insurance rather than remediate hazards, increase premiums across the rental market, and potentially cause insurers to withdraw from regions with older housing stock. The Majority Conference voted in favor while the Minority Conference opposed the measure.
Amend Executive Law requiring notification to complainants when building code violations are confirmed by local code enforcement
The Assembly passed A03126-B, which requires local code enforcement to notify tenants when building code violations reported by them are confirmed. Sponsor Assemblywoman Lunsford characterized the measure as a commonsense accountability tool enabling tenants to hold non-responsive landlords accountable. Opponent Assemblyman Molitor argued the bill adds unnecessary regulatory burden and expense, suggesting municipalities could address the issue through online portals. The Republican Conference opposed the bill, though members were permitted to vote individually. The Democratic Majority supported the measure.
An act to amend the General Business Law, in relation to the Attorney General's ability to protect New Yorkers from unfair, deceptive and abusive business practices; and to repeal certain provisions of such law relating thereto.
The Assembly passed a chapter amendment to legislation expanding the Attorney General's consumer protection authority under the General Business Law (A09444/S08811), significantly scaling back the original bill passed in June 2025. The amendment, negotiated with Governor Hochul to avoid a veto, preserves existing case law on the consumer-oriented standard developed over 50 years, limits standing to traditional consumer injury standards, extends the business response period from five to ten days, and clarifies that private rights of action apply only to deceptive acts. Sponsor Asm. Lasher emphasized the amendment still represents the first significant expansion of New York's Consumer Protection Law in 40 years, though he expressed reservations about preserving the consumer-oriented standard, which he argued was created by courts rather than statute. The Business Council, which opposed the original legislation, supported the amended version. Asm. Walsh noted the changes make the bill more palatable to business concerns, while Asm. Molitor warned the amendment improperly delegates legislative authority to federal statute and case law. The Majority Conference voted in favor; the Minority Conference voted generally in opposition but allowed members to vote individually.
An act to amend the Criminal Procedure Law, in relation to the method of notifying certain crime victims of the disposition of criminal trial
The Assembly passed legislation (A09493) sponsored by Asm. Romero that modifies how crime victims are notified of criminal case dispositions. The bill removes the requirement that written disposition notices be mailed and instead allows prosecutors to provide them through reasonable and secure means, including electronically. Sponsor Romero argued the change ensures victims receive plain-language summaries explaining case outcomes rather than jargon-filled Certificates of Disposition. However, Asm. Molitor raised concerns that the bill lacks specificity about what constitutes an adequate written summary, potentially allowing different District Attorney offices to apply it inconsistently and permitting minimal information to satisfy requirements. Asm. Bailey opposed the measure, arguing it creates room for error by allowing flexibility in what information is included and noting that informal summaries may not be filed in official case records. The Majority Conference voted in favor while the Minority Conference generally opposed it, though individual members could vote contrary to their conference position. Asm. Lavine spoke in favor, noting that modern Certificates of Disposition are costly and difficult for average citizens to understand.
Corrections omnibus chapter amendments relating to video disclosure, camera coverage, next of kin notification, State Commission of Correction membership, statute of limitations tolling, and Correctional Association hotline access
The Assembly passed A09516, a corrections omnibus chapter amendment sponsored by Asm. Dilan that makes technical adjustments to reforms enacted last year. The bill requires video footage of incarcerated deaths be disclosed to the Office of Special Investigations within 72 hours, mandates in-vehicle cameras for prisoner transport, establishes a confidential hotline for incarcerated individuals to contact the Correctional Association of New York, reduces State Commission of Correction membership from 9 to 5 members to include formerly incarcerated persons, and extends the statute of limitations for incarcerated individuals to file civil claims against the state for two years post-release. The Minority Conference voted against the bill. Asm. Molitor raised concerns that the statute of limitations extension creates two classes of citizens and could incentivize meritless claims filed years after incidents when video evidence has been destroyed. Asm. Gandolfo noted the absence of corrections officer representation on the oversight commission. Asm. Meeks spoke in support, calling the amendments necessary steps in recognizing the humanity of incarcerated individuals.
An act to amend Penal Law, in relation to individuals engaged in prostitution who are victims of or witnesses to a crime
The Assembly passed A01029-B, sponsored by Assemblywoman Kelles, which allows survivors of human trafficking and consensual adult sex workers to report crimes they experienced or witnessed without fear of arrest. The bill received bipartisan support, with members praising the sponsor for cross-aisle engagement. Kelles cited the Long Island Serial Killer case, noting that sex workers' fear of arrest prevented timely investigation of the decade-long case. The legislation is supported by law enforcement, district attorneys, and sheriffs on both sides of the aisle. Assemblyman Molitor noted the bill passed the Senate unanimously and appeared headed for unanimous passage in the Assembly as well. The measure aims to enable vulnerable populations to seek justice while providing law enforcement with critical investigative information.
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.
An act authorizing a loan from the State to the City of Dunkirk and making an appropriation therefor
The Assembly passed a bill authorizing a state loan to the City of Dunkirk despite bipartisan local opposition. Asm. Molitor, voting against the measure, reported that a majority of the Dunkirk City Council and Bob Bankowski, a Democratic Chautauqua County legislator representing the city, both opposed the legislation. The Republican Conference generally opposed the bill while the Majority Conference supported it.
An act in relation to authorizing a loan from the State to the City of Dunkirk (Part A); and making an appropriation therefor (Part B)
The Assembly tabled a controversial $20 million-plus loan authorization to the City of Dunkirk (A08413) after debate over inadequate financial oversight. Assemblymember Molitor, whose district includes Dunkirk, opposed the measure despite acknowledging its necessity to protect statewide municipal bond ratings. He cited the city's ballooning deficit, 84 percent property tax increases, and an open Comptroller investigation into its finances. Molitor argued the bill fails to impose stringent controls or address structural problems, and warned it will drive away businesses and residents from an already economically depressed area. The Majority Conference supported the bill, but Majority Leader Peoples-Stokes requested the roll be recalled and the bill laid aside, effectively tabling it for further consideration.
An act to amend the Chapter 405 of the Laws of 2007, amending the Tax Law relating to increasing hotel/motel taxes in Chautauqua County, in relation to extending the expiration of such provisions; and to amend Chapter 335 of the Laws of 2023, amending the Tax Law relating to the allocation of a revenue from the hotel and motel taxes in Chautauqua County, in relation to extending the expiration of such provisions
Francesco's Law - Safe storage of firearms; amends Penal Law and Executive Law regarding gun violence prevention reporting
The Assembly passed A01962-B, sponsored by Asm. Anderson, amending safe storage requirements for firearms under Penal Law Section 265. The bill, known as "Francesco's Law," establishes a noncriminal violation for failure to safely store firearms and a Class A misdemeanor when minors gain access to unsecured weapons. The legislation aligns New York with safe storage standards in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, and Minnesota, and directs the Department of Criminal Justice Services to collect data on firearm-related incidents and conduct public education campaigns. The bill includes exceptions for unlawful entry, self-defense, and lawful hunting by licensed minors. Supporters, including Asm. Lavine and Asm. Forrest, emphasized the bill's potential to prevent youth suicides and protect children, citing testimony from joint committee hearings. Opponents, including Asm. Molitor, raised concerns about forcing gun owners to choose between accessibility for self-defense and secure storage, and questioned whether existing 2022 legislation already addressed the core protections. Rural members raised practical questions about hunting, trap shooting teams, and farm protection scenarios. The bill passed without a recorded vote tally being announced in this segment.
An act to amend the Criminal Procedure Law, in relation to the issuance of temporary orders of protection when an action is pending in a local criminal court
The Assembly passed A06455, sponsored by Asm. Septimo, amending the Criminal Procedure Law to codify recent case law requiring judges to hold evidentiary hearings on temporary orders of protection when requested by defendants in local criminal courts. The bill, which stems from the Crawford v. Ally (2021) case, allows accused parties and victims to present evidence before temporary orders are issued, addressing concerns that such orders can cause homelessness, job loss, and family separation without due process. The measure requires hearings within five business days and allows hearsay evidence through live witnesses. Despite support from over 20 organizations including the New York State Coalition Against Sexual Assault, the bill faced opposition from some members concerned about court capacity burdens, particularly in rural areas, and potential for defendants to strategically request hearings to revictimize domestic violence survivors. The Republican Conference opposed the bill generally, though members could vote individually in favor.
An act to amend the Civil Practice Law and Rules, the Business Corporation Law, the General Associations Law, the Limited Liability Company Law, the Not-For-Profit Corporation Law and the Partnership Law, in relation to consent to jurisdiction by foreign business organizations authorized to do business in New York.
The Assembly passed A08303, sponsored by Assemblywoman Lunsford, which amends multiple business law statutes to require foreign corporations registering in New York to consent to general jurisdiction over lawsuits brought by State residents or businesses. The bill passed along party lines, with Democrats supporting and Republicans opposing. Lunsford argued the bill restores pre-Daimler law (over 100 years of precedent) and noted the Supreme Court's recent Mallory decision upheld a similar Pennsylvania statute. She contended no litigation flood occurred during the century before the 2014 Daimler decision. Republicans, citing two prior gubernatorial vetoes (2013, 2021), raised concerns about forum shopping, potential Commerce Clause violations, and discouraging business incorporation in New York. Assemblyman Molitor warned the bill could expose businesses to nationwide litigation for conduct unrelated to New York operations and drive investment to neighboring states. The bill takes effect January 1st.
An act to amend the Civil Practice Law and Rules, the Business Corporation Law, the General Associations Law, the Limited Liability Company Law, the Not-For-Profit Corporation Law and the Partnership Law, in relation to consent to jurisdiction by foreign business organizations authorized to do business in New York.
The Assembly passed A08303, sponsored by Assemblywoman Lunsford, which amends multiple business law statutes to establish that foreign corporations registering to do business in New York consent to general jurisdiction in the state. The bill sparked significant debate over jurisdictional expansion and business climate impacts. Lunsford argued the bill restores pre-Daimler law (over 100 years of precedent) and cited the Supreme Court's recent Mallory v. Norfolk Southern Railway decision upholding a similar Pennsylvania statute. She contended no litigation flood occurred during the century before the 2014 Daimler decision and that businesses can avoid jurisdiction by not registering. Opponents Assemblyman Ra and Assemblyman Molitor raised concerns about forum shopping, discouraging business registration, potential Commerce Clause violations, and increased court caseload. Molitor argued no other major state has such expansive jurisdiction and warned it could drive businesses to neighboring states. The Republican conference voted against the bill; the Democratic conference voted in favor with some exceptions permitted. The bill takes effect January 1st.
An act to amend the Civil Practice Law and Rules, the Business Corporation Law, the General Associations Law, the Limited Liability Company Law, the Not-For-Profit Corporation Law and the Partnership Law, in relation to consent to jurisdiction by foreign business organizations authorized to do business in New York.
The Assembly passed A08303, sponsored by Assemblywoman Lunsford, which establishes that foreign corporations registering to do business in New York consent to general jurisdiction in state courts for all claims, including those unrelated to their New York operations. The bill sparked significant debate along party lines. Lunsford argued it restores pre-2014 law before the Daimler Supreme Court decision and cites the recent Mallory v. Norfolk Southern Railway decision upholding a similar Pennsylvania statute. She contended no problems arose during the 100+ years this was law and that the bill limits plaintiffs to those with New York nexus. Republicans, led by Assemblyman Ra and Assemblyman Molitor, raised concerns about forum shopping, discouraging business registration in New York, potential Commerce Clause violations, and increased court caseload. Molitor argued no other major state has such expansive jurisdiction and warned it could drive businesses to neighboring states. The Republican conference voted against the bill, while the Democratic conference voted in favor, with some exceptions permitted. The bill takes effect January 1st.
An act to amend the Criminal Procedure Law, in relation to establishing the New York Electronic Communications Privacy Act (NYECPA)
The Assembly debated A02565, the New York Electronic Communications Privacy Act, sponsored by Assemblyman Dinowitz, which would require law enforcement to obtain warrants before accessing electronic communications, personal device data, emails, text messages, and location information. The bill includes emergency exceptions when there is danger of death or serious injury. During debate, Assemblyman Molitor raised concerns about a provision requiring police to provide copies of obtained electronic materials to warrant targets, arguing this differs from standard search warrant procedures and could be problematic in cases involving child pornography. He also questioned whether the bill's requirement that the Attorney General publish reports on warrants issued without identified targets could compromise sensitive ongoing investigations. Assemblyman Morinello expressed support, calling the legislation timely given modern electronic surveillance capabilities, though noting the need for openness to future adjustments. The bill is the fifth iteration brought to the floor.
Electronic communications and data privacy; warrant requirements and Attorney General enforcement
The Assembly passed A695, a bill regulating law enforcement access to electronic communications and data. The measure, sponsored by Assemblyman Dinowitz, permits the Attorney General to enforce compliance with warrant requirements and allows individuals to petition courts to quash warrants or destroy electronic information obtained in violation of state or federal constitutional protections. The bill also requires annual reporting by law enforcement agencies on electronic information obtained. Debate revealed significant concerns from Republican members about the bill's potential to impede criminal investigations. Assemblyman Molitor warned the measure creates an unprecedented ability for criminal suspects to challenge warrants during ongoing investigations, potentially delaying law enforcement operations in serious cases. Assemblyman Ra questioned whether the bill would prevent police from using cell phone location data to identify suspects in early-stage investigations. Dinowitz clarified that reporting requirements apply to agencies rather than individual officers. A party-line vote was requested, with the Minority Conference voting in the negative.
Source: Official NY Assembly floor session transcripts (Granicus). AI-processed. Includes sessions from 2023 onward where transcripts are available.