S5597

The New York State Senate passed S5597, a bill to amend the General Business Law sponsored by Senator May, on a 40-19 vote. The measure, which was Calendar Number 182, proceeded directly to a roll call vote without recorded debate. Nineteen senators voted in opposition, including Senators Ashby, Borrello, Chan, Gallivan, Griffo, Helming, Lanza, Mattera, Murray, Oberacker, O'Mara, Ortt, Palumbo, Rolison, Stec, Tedisco, Walczyk, Weber and Weik. The bill takes effect immediately upon enactment.

The New York State Senate passed S5597, a bill extending Lemon Law protections to commercial vehicles, by a vote of 41-21 on the floor Tuesday. The measure, sponsored by Sen. May and referred by Sen. Thomas, would allow small businesses to seek restitution for defects in commercially purchased vehicles, including used equipment. The bill restricts coverage to defects inherent in manufacturer-supplied components and excludes modifications made after purchase. However, the legislation drew sharp criticism from Sen. Borrello, who argued it is impractical and unfairly exposes manufacturers to liability for defects in vehicles modified by third parties. Borrello, a small business owner, warned the bill would increase costs for aftermarket warranties and commercial equipment purchases by holding manufacturers responsible for modifications they did not design or approve. He characterized the measure as "a solution in search of a problem," noting it has passed the chamber multiple times without advancing further. Despite the opposition, the bill secured a comfortable majority and now moves forward in the legislative process.

The New York State Senate passed S5597, sponsored by Sen. Comrie, an act to amend the Banking Law, on a roll call vote of 47-11. The bill, which carries Calendar Number 665, will take effect 180 days after becoming law. Eleven senators voted in opposition: Borrello, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Helming, Oberacker, O'Mara, Ortt, Palumbo, Stec, Tedisco, Walczyk and Weber. No floor debate was recorded on the measure.