S2376A

The New York State Senate voted to reconsider passage of Senate Print 2376A, an act to amend the Penal Law, on a roll call vote of 50-0. Sen. Michael Gianaris moved for reconsideration, and the bill was restored to its place on the Third Reading Calendar. Gianaris subsequently offered amendments to the legislation. The specific nature of the amendments was not detailed in the floor debate.

The New York State Senate passed legislation amending the Penal Law on a 58-1 vote, with only Sen. Brisport dissenting. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Persaud and designated as Calendar Number 731, addresses the crime of stealing health insurance. During floor debate, Sen. Brisport explained his opposition, arguing the measure creates an untenable situation for uninsured and underinsured New Yorkers by threatening criminal penalties for theft while the state fails to guarantee universal healthcare coverage. He noted that New York's $2 trillion economy—larger than many industrialized nations and comparable to Canada—is sufficient to provide universal health insurance to all residents. Brisport called on the chamber to instead prioritize passage of the New York Health Act, contending the state bears responsibility for leaving over 1 million residents without adequate coverage. The bill takes effect 90 days after becoming law.