S4859A

The New York State Senate passed Senate Print 4859A, sponsored by Sen. Hoylman-Sigal, an act to amend the Judiciary Law. The bill passed on a 57-1 vote, with Sen. Walczyk voting in opposition. The measure takes effect immediately. No debate was recorded during floor consideration of the legislation.

The State Senate passed legislation sponsored by Sen. Krueger to enforce a 30-year-old state standard prohibiting the purchase of tropical hardwoods in state contracts, advancing environmental protections against deforestation and climate change. The bill, Senate Print 4859A (Calendar 636), passed on a 42-19 vote after floor debate centered on implementation details. Sen. Krueger emphasized the bill's importance for protecting rainforests and indigenous lands while providing state agencies and vendors with clear monitoring standards and alternative wood options. Sen. Martins cast one of 19 opposing votes, arguing the legislation unfairly targets contractors and workers rather than importers and suppliers who bring tropical woods into New York's commerce stream. The measure now moves forward in the legislative process.