S4459

The New York State Senate voted to reconsider passage of Senate Print 4459, an act to amend the State Law, on a roll call vote of 52 ayes. The bill, sponsored by Senator Ashby and listed as Calendar Number 764, was restored to its place on the Third Reading Calendar following the reconsideration motion by Sen. Lanza. Sen. Lanza subsequently offered amendments to the bill, which were received by the presiding officer. The specific details of the proposed amendments were not disclosed during the floor session.

The State Senate passed S4459, sponsored by Sen. Ashby, on a roll call vote of 60-0. The measure amends State Law and takes effect January 1. No floor debate was recorded on the bill, which moved directly to a vote after the reading of its final section.

The New York State Senate passed Senate Print 4459, sponsored by Sen. Ashby, on a roll call vote of 61-0. The bill amends State Law and takes effect January 1. During floor debate, Ashby explained his support for the measure, honoring Purple Heart recipients and emphasizing the unique nature of the Purple Heart award compared to other military decorations. Unlike awards such as the Bronze Star or Army Commendation Medal with Valor, which require lengthy approval processes and review boards, the Purple Heart has a straightforward criteria: being wounded while facing enemy combatants. Ashby called for reverence matching the sacrifice of Purple Heart recipients. The bill marked Ashby's first measure to pass the chamber, prompting Sen. Lanza to request a pause for recognition and drawing a standing ovation from colleagues.