Asm. Emerita Torres

Sponsor characterized the fees as junk and predatory fees that serve no legitimate purpose, arguing the bill protects homeowners from hundreds of dollars in charges simply for adjusting payment schedules and promotes transparency in mortgage terms.

Explained that the bill protects New Yorkers from identity theft by ensuring consumers know they have access to a free credit freeze, which is a critical financial document that determines ability to obtain loans and purchase homes.

The bill codifies a labor agreement with graduate student employees, providing 3 percent annual stipend increases and new minimum stipends. It recognizes graduate assistants as a core part of SUNY's academic workforce whose work supports groundbreaking research and innovation.

Torres emphasized that the Thruway Authority collects $980 million in tolls annually but has operated without sufficient transparency. The bill addresses fairness and equity by requiring biannual reporting and vendor contracting reports to ensure minority- and women-owned businesses have equal opportunities.

Torres emphasized that the Thruway Authority's $980 million in annual toll collections warrant greater transparency and accountability. She argued the bill enables tracking of financial health, spending, and vendor contracting practices, particularly for minority- and women-owned businesses, creating a level playing field.

Stressed that consumers deserve to know when charged different prices based on personal data. Noted New York will be first in the nation to implement this standard and ensure clear disclosure and accountability for algorithmic pricing.

Emphasized that New Yorkers are often charged different prices for the same product based on personal data like zip code, gender, and race. Stated that the bill ensures clear disclosure and accountability, making New York the first state to implement such a standard.

Emphasized that New Yorkers are often charged different prices for the same product based on personal data, and that the bill ensures clear disclosure and accountability. Noted that New York will be the first state to implement this standard.

Explained that the bill addresses a critical health care gap for incarcerated individuals by ensuring equitable access to breast cancer screenings and diagnostic testing, promoting health equity, reducing long-term health care costs through early detection, and enhancing humane treatment standards in correctional facilities.