Asm. Emily Gallagher

Assemblymember Bores explained that the bill addresses consumer frustration with automatic subscription renewals and hidden charges. He noted the legislation passed unanimously through three committees and has support from business groups including the Business Council and Tech NYC because it aligns with regulations in other states without imposing new compliance costs on New York businesses.

Language is critically important as it creates stigma, and stigma creates fear. Changing the nomenclature from 'addict' to 'person with substance use disorder' will help people heal, find recovery, and access community support, as addiction is a disease and substance use disorder is the correct terminology.

Affirmed that protecting public health and the environment is government's fundamental responsibility and that the bill closes an important loophole to prevent harms similar to those from fracking, including seismic activity, water contamination, and pipeline infrastructure damage.

Supported centralizing apportionment cases to discourage venue shopping and increase expertise within relevant jurisdictions.

Sponsor explained the amendment reflects agreements between Governor and Legislature, removes the public database but collects beneficial ownership information for access by law enforcement and local governments. Emphasized the bill addresses serious public policy problems including human trafficking, money laundering, terrorist financing, and housing violations.

Debate centered on the scope and effectiveness of LLC beneficial ownership disclosure requirements. Assemblyman Blumencranz questioned why LLCs were targeted while other corporate entities like S corps and LLPs were exempt, and argued the bill's 23 exemptions would allow bad actors to evade disclosure while burdening small businesses and law-abiding citizens. Assemblywoman Gallagher countered that anonymous LLCs have been implicated in terrorism financing, money laundering, tax avoidance, human trafficking, and housing violations, and that the bill eases burdens on small businesses harmed by shell companies. Assemblywoman Simon noted the bill would help prevent wealthy individuals from creating multiple LLCs to circumvent campaign finance limits.

Spoke from personal experience as a bike commuter, arguing Idaho Stops have saved her life and citing a friend's arrest for a stop sign violation as wasteful law enforcement. Emphasized cyclists' knowledge of safe maneuvering.

Shared personal experience of paying over 50 percent of income in rent and being unable to pay on the first of the month. Noted constituents have had checks not cashed by landlords who then report non-payment, and that tenants provide extensive information while landlords often hide behind LLCs.