S335

Senate Print 335, sponsored by Sen. Gianaris and amending the General Business Law, was laid aside during floor consideration on motion of Sen. Lanza.

The New York State Senate passed legislation modernizing the state's antitrust laws, with a 39-21 vote on Senate Print 335, sponsored by Sen. Gianaris. The bill establishes a new 'abuse of dominance' standard to address monopolistic practices, replacing century-old legal frameworks that courts have not updated to reflect the modern economy. Gianaris argued the measure targets large corporations operating in New York and represents an innovative approach used internationally. However, Sen. Borrello led opposition, warning the vaguely-defined bill would enable frivolous litigation against small rural businesses—such as single gas stations or convenience stores that are the only service providers in their areas—by creating incentives for what he called 'litigation bounty hunters.' Borrello cited opposition from the Farm Bureau, bankers, and business organizations across the state. Sen. May, chair of the Committee on Consumer Protection, supported the bill, arguing monopolies represent symptoms of a broken economy rather than neutral economic strategies. The measure passed largely along party lines, with 21 senators voting against it.