Asm. Rebecca Seawright

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.