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.
Environmental standards for ambient lead and lead contamination in soils
The Assembly passed A03682-A, sponsored by Assemblywoman Peoples-Stokes, requiring the Department of Environmental Conservation and Department of Health to review and potentially lower environmental standards for lead contamination in dust, soil, and ambient air within 180 days. The bill removes a reporting requirement from a 2022 version that was vetoed by the Governor. Peoples-Stokes argued that CDC guidance establishes no safe level of lead for children and cited rising special education enrollment linked to lead exposure. Assemblywoman Walsh questioned whether the bill was preemptive regulation based on hypothetical federal deregulation rather than actual regulatory changes, but ultimately supported it as a reasonable periodic review of standards. The Majority Conference voted in favor; the Minority Conference voted against, though Walsh voted affirmatively.
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. Sponsored by Asm. Kim, the bill takes effect on the 90th day and allows insurers to set co-payments and cost-sharing mechanisms. Kim noted that some insurers already provide acupuncture coverage because it reduces costs, and that acupuncturists require three years of medical training. Supporters, including Mrs. Peoples-Stokes, Mr. Chang, and Mr. Sayegh, emphasized acupuncture's effectiveness for pain management and its use in Eastern medicine traditions. The Veterans Administration approves acupuncture as treatment. Opponents, including Asm. Gandolfo and Ms. Walsh, argued the bill represents another insurance mandate that collectively raises health insurance premiums and disproportionately affects small and medium-size businesses. Gandolfo questioned why the State does not mandate coverage in the Essential Plan if acupuncture is truly essential. The Majority Conference voted in favor while the Minority Conference opposed the measure.
Environmental standards for ambient lead and lead contamination in soils
The Assembly passed A03682-A, sponsored by Assemblywoman Peoples-Stokes, directing state environmental and health agencies to review and potentially lower lead contamination standards within 180 days. The bill requires examination of dust lead hazards, soil lead hazards, and ambient air quality standards. Peoples-Stokes argued that New York's soil lead standards of 400 parts per million exceed federal standards of 200 ppm, and that scientific evidence shows no safe level of lead exposure for children. Assemblywoman Walsh questioned the necessity of the measure, noting the Governor vetoed similar legislation in 2022 and expressing concern the bill addresses potential rather than actual federal threats. The Majority Conference voted in favor; the Minority Conference voted against, though Walsh indicated she would support the measure.
The Assembly passed A10080-A on March 25, with the Majority Conference voting in favor and the Minority Conference voting against, though some minority members voted yes. The bill's final passage came after brief debate regarding MTA communication with the public about bed bug problems on a particular transit line. Members expressed concern that the MTA needed to be more transparent and proactive if the infestation worsened. The specific vote tally was not announced in the transcript.
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.
Cannabis regulatory clarification — measurement standards for dispensary proximity to schools and houses of worship
The Assembly passed legislation on Feb. 11 correcting regulatory guidance from the Office of Cannabis Management that retroactively deemed over 100 licensed cannabis dispensaries non-compliant with proximity requirements to schools and houses of worship. Sponsor Assemblywoman Zinerman's bill (A05906-B) clarifies that distance measurements run center-door-to-center-door at 500 feet from schools and 200 feet from houses of worship, restoring consistency with the original Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act. The bill protects businesses that received written state confirmation and invested capital in good faith. Supporters, including Assemblyman Dais and Mrs. Peoples-Stokes, emphasized OCM's rigorous age-verification safeguards exceed those of liquor retailers and that the cannabis industry generates tax revenue and economic opportunity for justice-involved individuals. Opponents including Assemblywoman Walsh and Assemblyman Slater criticized the bill as special treatment unavailable to other regulated industries, questioned the cannabis program's overall implementation, and objected to the compressed legislative timeline. The bill passed on a party-line vote with the Minority Conference voting in the negative, though individual members were permitted to vote affirmatively at their seats.
An act to amend the Estates, Powers and Trusts Law, in relation to electronic wills; to amend the Judiciary Law, in relation to rules relating to electronic wills; and to amend a chapter of the Laws of 2025 amending the Estates, Powers and Trusts Law and the State Technology Law relating to electronic wills
The Assembly passed A09497, a chapter amendment to New York's electronic wills law that strengthens fraud protections and clarifies implementation procedures. Sponsored by Asm. Lavine, the bill requires electronic wills be created and stored on systems that verify testator signatures, prevent version tampering, capture all post-signing modifications, and maintain audit trail data including timestamps and access logs. The amendment extends the effective date from 540 days to two years, giving the chief administrator of courts time to develop necessary rules and infrastructure for statewide implementation. During debate, Asm. Walsh raised concerns about technological barriers for older testators and sought clarification that witnesses must be electronically present during signing, not reviewing recordings afterward. Mrs. Peoples-Stokes supported the bill as potentially accelerating estate planning access and reducing community blight from unprobated properties. The Minority Conference voted generally in opposition.
Chapter amendment to Social Services Law relating to information required in calls to the Statewide Central Register of Child Abuse and Maltreatment
The Assembly passed a chapter amendment to child abuse reporting law (A09481/S00550-A) sponsored by Asm. Hevesi that makes technical changes to the Statewide Central Register of Child Abuse and Maltreatment. The bill removes duplicative confidentiality provisions, changes references to preventative services, and creates an exception allowing anonymous reports if the caller is reasonably believed to be under 18. The Majority Conference voted in favor. Asm. Walsh led opposition, arguing the bill eliminates anonymous reporting for adults and will discourage reports from neighbors, grandparents, and non-mandated reporters who fear retaliation. She cited a recent case where anonymous calls saved the lives of severely malnourished children. Supporters including Asm. Glick and Mrs. Peoples-Stokes argued the measure addresses misuse of the system by false and malicious reporters. The bill passed on a party-line vote with the Minority Conference generally opposed.
An act to amend the Family Court Act, in relation to the right to counsel in proceedings regarding violations of orders of child support and to establish paternity or parentage in the family court
The Assembly passed legislation expanding the right to court-appointed counsel in family court proceedings. Sponsored by Asm. Davila, the bill ensures both parties in contempt, paternity, and child support collection proceedings can receive 18-B counsel if they cannot afford attorneys. Currently, only respondents receive appointed counsel in contempt and paternity cases, and approximately 85 percent of parties in child support collection cases appear pro se. The bill also provides counsel for minor parties in rare cases of teen parents. The state estimates costs at $9.4 million annually, with counties reimbursed for most expenses. Davila argued the bill addresses systemic inequality in family court access. Questioner Asm. Walsh initially raised concerns about county cost-sharing, 18-B attorney compensation rates, and potential caseload increases, but ultimately supported the bill after debate clarified its limited scope to delinquent child support cases and confirmed state reimbursement. The bill passed with support from the Majority Conference.
An act to amend the Cannabis Law, in relation to medical use cannabis; and to repeal Article 33-A of the Public Health Law relating to the Controlled Substances Therapeutic Research Act
The New York State Assembly passed legislation sponsored by Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes to revitalize the state's struggling medical cannabis program. The bill, A04795/S03294, streamlines patient access by lowering the designated caregiver age from 21 to 18, allowing healthcare practitioners to certify caregivers, establishing reciprocity for out-of-state medical cannabis cardholders, and eliminating registry identification card requirements. Debate centered on the caregiver age reduction, with sponsors clarifying it aligns with existing home health aide requirements and ensures caregivers under 21 can pick up medication without obstruction. The bill addresses a significant decline in medical dispensaries from 40 to 30 since adult-use legalization in 2021, with rising prices limiting patient access. Supporters emphasized the need to protect specialized medical products unavailable in adult-use stores, while some members questioned whether the changes adequately address the program's underlying issues, including continued taxation of medical cannabis. The Assembly passed the bill without a recorded vote tally being announced.
Food purchase contracts awarding
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.
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.
An act to amend the Tax Law, in relation to the timeframe of distributors of cannabis products to file tax returns
An act to amend Executive Law, in relation to requiring documents utilized by State agencies, public authorities and municipalities to replace the term 'emotionally disturbed person' with the term 'person experiencing an emotional crisis'
The Assembly passed A04762-B, sponsored by Assemblywoman Monique Chandler-Waterman, which requires state agencies, public authorities and municipalities to replace the term 'emotionally disturbed person' with 'person experiencing an emotional crisis' in official documents and forms. The bill aims to reduce stigma and promote dignity in how government discusses mental health, aligning with best practices supported by national health organizations. Chandler-Waterman emphasized that language shapes how systems treat people and that the shift to person-centered, trauma-informed terminology can de-escalate public perception, particularly in police and emergency contexts. Assemblyman Gandolfo, initially concerned about implementation costs and potential conflicts with federal regulations, withdrew his objections after the sponsor clarified that agencies would have one year to update materials and that the bill applies to first responder reporting forms rather than medical diagnoses. The bill takes effect on the 365th day.
Francesco's Law — safe firearm storage requirements and data collection on unsafe storage incidents
The Assembly passed Francesco's Law (A08463), sponsored by Asm. Khaleel Anderson, which strengthens safe firearm storage requirements and mandates data collection on unsafe storage incidents. The bill clarifies existing law to ensure firearms not in immediate control are secured, directs the Office of Gun Violence Prevention to conduct public education campaigns, and requires DCJS to collect data on violations. The legislation was inspired by Francesco, a 17-year-old Long Island resident who died by suicide in 2021 using an unsecured family firearm after experiencing bullying. Supporters cited statistics showing suicides account for 36% of firearm deaths among children ages 10-19 and that 66% of unintentional fatal shootings involving children occur when firearms are handled by someone else. Asm. Lunsford noted that 80% of gun owners support safe storage laws. Opponents, including Asm. Lemondes, raised Second Amendment concerns and questioned whether the law could impede self-defense during home invasions. Asm. Gallahan advocated for education over legislation. Francesco's mother and godmother attended the session. The bill passed with strong support from the Majority Conference.
Relating to work study requirements for TANF recipients aged 18-19, allowing homework in pursuit of a four-year degree to count toward the 20-hour-per-week work requirement
The Assembly passed legislation allowing homework in pursuit of a four-year degree to count toward the 20-hour-per-week work requirement for TANF recipients aged 18 and 19. Sponsor Assemblyman Cunningham said the bill promotes self-sufficiency and is modeled on programs in 34 states that have shown success in increasing grades and income outcomes. Assemblywoman Walsh raised concerns that allowing unsupervised, self-reported homework may extend the bill's reach too far, though she acknowledged its goal of reducing dependency on public assistance. The bill allows optional local supervision of homework but does not require it. Students must maintain a C grade or better to qualify. The measure passed on a party-line vote, with the Democratic Conference generally in favor and the Republican Conference generally opposed, though individual members were permitted to vote their conscience.
Algorithmic collusion and price fixing in residential rental housing
The Assembly passed legislation sponsored by Assemblywoman Linda Rosenthal that extends New York's antitrust law to algorithmic price fixing in residential rental housing. The bill, A04172/S05174, clarifies that using algorithms to coordinate pricing among landlords violates the state's Donnelly Act, which has been law since 1899. Rosenthal argued the measure gives the Attorney General tools to prosecute conduct already illegal when done by humans, citing examples from Washington D.C., Philadelphia, and other jurisdictions where companies like RealPage have orchestrated collusion. The bill requires three specific functions—collecting pricing data from multiple landlords, analyzing it algorithmically, and recommending prices—to constitute illegal collusion, and includes a 'knowingly or reckless disregard' standard. Opponents, including Assemblyman Peter Fitzpatrick and Assemblyman DiPietro, argued there is no evidence of algorithmic collusion in New York State and characterized the bill as government overreach that will discourage landlord investment and worsen housing shortages. The Republican Conference voted against the bill; the Majority Conference voted in favor.
An act to amend the Insurance Law, in relation to summaries of readable and understandable insurance policies
The Assembly passed A00536-A, sponsored by Asm. Paulin, requiring insurers to provide auto and homeowners policyholders with simplified, large-print summary documents outlining coverage separately from declarations pages. The bill aims to help consumers understand their policies at a glance, addressing complaints that current declarations pages are difficult to read and navigate. Sponsor Paulin cited feedback from the Department of Insurance that consumers often do not understand what coverage they have purchased. Opponents argued the bill creates unnecessary bureaucracy by duplicating information already in declarations pages and may overwhelm consumers with additional paperwork. The Republican Conference voted against the bill, while the Democratic Majority supported it. The bill takes effect October 1st.
Relating to work study requirements for TANF recipients aged 18-19, allowing homework in pursuit of a four-year degree to count toward the 20-hour-per-week work requirement
The Assembly passed legislation allowing homework in pursuit of a four-year degree to count toward the 20-hour-per-week work requirement for TANF recipients aged 18 and 19. Sponsor Assemblyman Cunningham said the bill, which has been adopted in 34 states, aims to promote self-sufficiency and reduce dependency on public assistance by allowing young people to pursue higher education. The measure permits optional local supervision of homework but does not require it, and allows recipients to self-certify their hours. Assemblywoman Walsh raised concerns about unsupervised, self-reported homework, but Majority Leader Peoples-Stokes argued the bill provides opportunity rather than denial during a time of growing economic inequality. The bill passed on a party-line vote with some Republican support possible.
Lead-based paint inspection and disclosure requirements for residential real property sales and certain rental transactions
The Assembly passed Asm. Rivera's lead-based paint inspection bill (A01417) on a party-line vote with Republican exceptions. The legislation requires sellers of residential properties built before 1978 to obtain lead-based paint certifications before sale and disclose results to buyers. The requirement applies to sales and rent-to-own arrangements but not standard rentals. Sellers receive a $400-$500 tax credit to offset testing costs, which average $400-$500. The bill does not mandate remediation, only disclosure. Multiple members emphasized lead poisoning as the most preventable and prevalent health threat to children, with impacts including developmental delays, learning disabilities, and reduced educational capacity. Asm. Peoples-Stokes criticized America's historical prioritization of business profit over public health, while Asm. Meeks detailed extensive health consequences. The bill has passed three times previously with no reported concerns from county clerks. It takes effect August 1, 2026.
An act relating to algorithmic collusion and price fixing in residential rental markets
The Assembly passed legislation sponsored by Asm. Rosenthal that extends New York's antitrust protections to algorithmic price fixing in residential rental markets. The bill clarifies that using algorithms to coordinate pricing among landlords violates the Donnelly Act, which has governed price fixing since 1899. Rosenthal cited examples from Washington D.C., Philadelphia, and other jurisdictions where software like RealPage was used to inflate rents across thousands of units. The measure requires three specific functions—data collection from multiple landlords, algorithmic analysis, and price recommendations—to constitute illegal collusion, and includes a 'knowingly or reckless disregard' standard. Opponents, led by Asm. Fitzpatrick, argued the bill represents premature government intervention without documented cases of algorithmic price fixing in New York State, and contended that the state's strict rent regulations already prevent such practices. Fitzpatrick also questioned why the bill targets only housing when AI-driven pricing occurs across industries. The bill passed with support from Asm. Gallagher, who noted rents in her district have risen 40 percent, and Mrs. Peoples-Stokes, who acknowledged the bill addresses real concerns even as technology continues to evolve.
An act to amend the Insurance Law, in relation to summaries of readable and understandable insurance policies
The Assembly passed A00536-A, sponsored by Asm. Paulin, requiring insurers to provide auto and homeowners policyholders with simplified, large-print summary documents outlining coverage separately from declarations pages. Paulin argued current declarations pages are difficult to read and consumers often do not understand their coverage, citing a 2023 storm in Asm. Eachus's district where nearly 600 homeowners with damage could not collect because flood coverage was unclear. Opponents contended the bill duplicates existing information and may overwhelm consumers with additional paperwork rather than clarify coverage. The Republican Conference voted against the bill, while the Democratic Majority supported it. The bill takes effect October 1st.
An act to amend the Banking Law, in relation to establishing criteria for the closure of banking accounts in the State of New York
The Assembly passed A05031-A, sponsored by Asm. Jacobson, requiring State-chartered banks to provide 60 days' notice and written explanation before closing customer accounts, with funds returned within 60 days of closure. The bill does not preempt Federal law. Debate focused on whether the notice requirement could interfere with law enforcement investigations into financial crimes. Sponsor Jacobson argued the bill protects consumers from unexpected account closures that cause bounced checks and financial hardship, and does not prevent banks from complying with Federal law enforcement orders. Opponent Asm. Bologna raised concerns that the bill lacks explicit exemptions for State law enforcement agencies investigating fraud, money laundering, and terrorism, and could burden State-chartered banks already struggling to compete with Federal institutions. Supporter Asm. Peoples-Stokes cited real instances where banks closed accounts without notification, leaving customers unaware their money had been turned over to the Comptroller's Unclaimed Funds account. The bill takes effect immediately.
Source: Official NY Assembly floor session transcripts (Granicus). AI-processed. Includes sessions from 2023 onward where transcripts are available.