Asm. Nader Sayegh

Sponsor argued the bill addresses a real problem where customers cannot reach utilities during outages, particularly affecting seniors and those without internet access. He stated most major companies already have 24/7 staffed numbers and costs would be nominal, with exemptions available for small municipalities that can demonstrate undue burden.

Assemblymember Simpson expressed concerns about the bill despite supporting its intent, noting that sportsmen organizations in his district reported no communication with the Department of Environmental Conservation on the issue. Simpson stated there has not been enough scientific data to support the measure and cited past bad experiences with similar policies.

Argued Eastern medicine practices like acupuncture, which have existed for 5,000 years, deserve recognition alongside Western medicine for their preventative and pain-relief benefits.

Assemblymember Slater spoke in support of the legislation, noting that Cold War veterans answered their nation's call and deserve special recognition. He stated that Cold War era veterans in his district have specifically requested this commemorative medal and that state recognition would be meaningful to many veterans.

Assemblymember Dais explained that the bill aims to ensure veterans and their families have access to needed resources and make it easier for veterans to obtain information. He also recognized a colleague currently serving in the military while serving constituents. Assemblymember Walsh expressed support but noted concerns about the Department of Veterans Services' capacity to undertake this significant effort, citing past issues with distributing tax checkoff funds to veterans' organizations.

The bill was on the consent calendar. Asm. Palmesano explained his negative vote, raising concerns that the term 'public works website' is not defined in the legislation and questioning whether utilities performing excavation work would be required to pay prevailing wage for hauling, which could increase costs passed to ratepayers.

Argued that a fixed 30-day deadline is reasonable and practical, noting that consumers need timely notice to protect their identity and data. Stated that if organizations cannot notify within 30 days, that is unreasonable, and that law enforcement exemptions in the bill address investigation concerns.

Argued that a 30-day deadline is reasonable and necessary to protect consumers from identity theft and fraud. Noted that the bill allows exemptions for law enforcement investigations and that institutions should be able to notify within 30 days while conducting investigations.

The bill establishes a cryptocurrency and blockchain study task force to provide the Governor and Legislature with information on the effects of widespread cryptocurrency use and blockchain technology. Sponsor Vanel argued New York must maintain its position as the financial capital of the world by comprehensively understanding blockchain technology's implications for innovation, jobs, economic growth, and environmental issues, while supplementing the existing Bit license framework. Goodell questioned whether the Bit license, promulgated in 2015, has adequately protected New Yorkers while allowing participation in major exchanges.

Supported the bill as a matter of recognizing identity and representation for MENA communities, noting that Middle Eastern and North African peoples have historically been lost in classification systems and deserve recognition of their distinct identity.

The bill establishes a cryptocurrency and blockchain study task force to provide the Governor and Legislature with information on the effects of widespread cryptocurrency use and blockchain technology. Sponsor Vanel argued that New York, as the financial capital of the world, must maintain its competitive position against London, Tokyo, Shanghai, and Hong Kong by comprehensively understanding blockchain technology's implications for innovation, jobs, economic growth, and environmental impact. He noted that while the Bit license was promulgated in 2015 to protect consumers, the state needs updated legislative framework. Assemblyman Goodell questioned whether the Bit license framework has effectively allowed New Yorkers to participate in major cryptocurrency exchanges.

Supported the bill as a matter of recognizing identity and representation for MENA communities, noting that Middle Eastern and North African peoples have historically been lost in classification systems and deserve recognition of their distinct identity.

Honored Detective Sergeant Frank Gualdino's 22 years of service to the Yonkers Police Department and his tragic death in a collision on December 1, 2022. Sayegh detailed Gualdino's decorated career, family, and dedication to public service.