Asm. MaryJane Shimsky

Democracy requires intellectual discipline from reading; restricting books corrodes both minds and democracy itself. The First Amendment protects adults' right to read, and legislatures should not decide what books are appropriate for developing young minds.

Learning a language to fluency requires thousands of hours of effort and is a serious skill; paying interpreters only $25 per day is scandalous compared to consultant rates.

Learning a language to fluency is a serious skill requiring thousands of hours of effort; paying interpreters only $25 per day is scandalous and unfair compared to consultant rates.

Noted that peer-to-peer counseling fills gaps in mental health services for first responders. Thanked Long Island colleagues and former colleague Sillitti for their work getting the bill across the finish line.

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.

Assemblywoman Peoples-Stokes explained that the bill addresses a critical issue for transplant patients, particularly those on Medicaid who are currently restricted to applying to only one transplant program. She noted that approximately 8,000 New Yorkers are on transplant wait lists, with roughly 400 expected to die before receiving a transplant. The bill allows patients to apply to multiple programs, improving access and quality of life by reducing dependence on dialysis.

Noted that the partisan divide on this issue is narrower than on most topics because people across the political spectrum have personal experience with end-of-life suffering.

Ms. Shimsky explained the chapter amendment delays by one year the expansion of the Food Donation and Food Scraps Recycling program enacted in 2024. The amendment delays until January 2027 the inclusion of businesses with one ton of food scraps per week, delays until January 2029 the inclusion of businesses with half a ton per week, and delays the 50-mile distance rule for food scraps recycling. Multiple members questioned whether the state has adequate composting facilities (currently 44) and whether businesses will have sufficient support to comply. Mr. Simpson expressed concern that the law lacks adequate planning and infrastructure, comparing it to past failed e-waste programs. Mr. Gandolfo questioned whether the one-year delay is sufficient and whether industry requested the extension. Ms. Shimsky confirmed the delay was negotiated with the Governor's office and that no memos of opposition were received.

Noted that electronic filing is standard in courts nationwide because it is cheaper for litigants, more convenient, saves time, and is environmentally beneficial. Argued that after 25 years of moving toward e-filing, it is time to take the next step and work with local courts to implement it cost-effectively.

Noted that e-filing is cheaper for litigants, more convenient, saves time, and is better for the environment. Stated that just about every court in the country has adopted e-filing and that New York has been moving in this direction for 25 years. Argued the bill represents necessary progress and that time exists to help local courts transition cost-effectively.

Sponsor explained the bill expands food scrap generator requirements to include single locations generating one ton or more (2026-2027) and half-ton or more (after 2028), and increases maximum transport distance from 25 to 50 miles. Stated DEC uses holistic methodology including customer numbers and other factors, not just employees, and that enforcement falls on landfills and incinerators rather than generators.

Noted that food scraps are 18% of solid waste and methane is 80 times stronger than CO2; the bill provides gradual implementation allowing markets and facilities to catch up while balancing business-friendliness with climate protection.

Emphasized that capital budgets are essential for funding infrastructure including roads, bridges, schools, and hospitals necessary for vital services.

Noted the capital budget is essential for infrastructure funding and expressed hope for continued improvements in road, bridge, and clean water infrastructure in future years.