Asm. Rebecca Seawright

Assemblymember Walsh expressed strong support for the bill, noting that financial exploitation of elderly constituents is a serious problem that generates some of the saddest calls to district offices. She stated the bill, which requires the Office for the Aging to develop an awareness campaign on financial exploitation of the elderly, is an important step. She noted the bill passed unanimously last year and expressed hope it will do so again, though she noted there is currently no Senate companion bill.

Honored Francesco's memory and his mother Diana's advocacy; emphasized that no parent should lose a child due to carelessly unsecured firearms.

Emphasized the budget's $38 million year-to-year increase for seniors and $53 million in funding for unmet needs, including support for Meals on Wheels and community service programs.

Emphasized $38 million year-to-year increase for seniors with $53 million in new funding for area agencies on aging and community service programs; noted critical need for investment given federal cuts and growing senior population.

Emphasized the budget's $38 million year-to-year increase for seniors and $53 million in funding for unmet needs through area agencies on aging and community organizations like Meals on Wheels.

Emphasized the 44-year tradition of Legislative Disability Awareness Day and noted that nearly 3.9 million adult New Yorkers live with disabilities, requiring systemic reforms to service delivery and state commitment to equity.

Spoke in support, noting progress in acceptance and opportunities for people with IDD while highlighting persistent obstacles including insufficient school services, low wages for support professionals, and negative stereotypes that limit capabilities and success.

As Chair of the People with Disabilities Committee, explained that the bill complies with federal requirements and updates language to use person-first terminology, putting the person before the disability. The council will ensure 60 percent of members are persons with developmental disabilities or their relatives, ensuring disabled individuals are central to advocacy and inclusion efforts.

Sponsor argued the amendment is necessary to provide comprehensive equal protection 156 years after suffragettes first attempted constitutional equality amendments. Emphasized protections for marginalized communities, particularly women of color facing discrimination in criminal justice and health systems, and noted the amendment reflects modern civil rights movements while preserving existing legal standards for remedial programs.