Sen. Robert Jackson

Advocated for transferring the Amistad Commission to the State Education Department to better fulfill its mission of integrating slavery history into state curriculum, arguing the move aligns with educational objectives and strengthens the next generation's understanding of slavery's enduring impact on systemic racism.

Sponsor argued that despite growing research showing positive impacts of diverse teacher workforces, the percentage of educators of color has remained stagnant. The bill provides resources for mentorship and networking through annual conventions to support underrepresented teachers and improve education for New York's diverse student population.

Sponsor argued the bill ensures fair due-process hearings for permanent non-NYC government employees, protects against unjust unpaid suspensions, and maintains consistency in civil service protections across sectors while leveraging the expertise of NYC's Trials Division.

Supported the bill as essential to creating a fairer society, addressing systemic inequalities affecting communities of color and low-income families, and recognizing that rehabilitation is possible.

Sponsor argued the bill embodies transparency and accountability principles, creates an invaluable resource for policymakers and researchers, and helps rebuild trust between law enforcement and communities while providing tools for improvement rather than vilifying officers.

Shared personal anecdotes about his Asian father and supported the bill as necessary to ensure the school system communicates the wide range of people within it.

Supported the bill, citing recent cases where DA Alvin Bragg's wrongful conviction unit released approximately 200 people due to police misconduct. Noted that people sometimes plead guilty out of economic desperation to support their families rather than actual guilt.

He emphasized the bill acknowledges grave injustices and provides an opportunity to examine painful legacies and make determinations regarding compensation to address persistent inequalities.

Supported the bill as a moral imperative and practical step toward a healthier, more equitable society. Argued that healthcare is a fundamental right and that denying coverage based on immigration status is unacceptable.

He shared his personal experience of being hit by a car at age four and expressed support for the legislation as a way to protect children and pedestrians. He noted that lower speed limits in school zones have changed his own driving behavior.

Supported the resolution as part of a national effort to close loopholes in the 13th Amendment. Characterized the current exception permitting forced labor of incarcerated individuals as morally repugnant and called for New York to join seven other states that have already abolished slavery without exception.

Sponsor argued that caregiving is undervalued and caregivers face unjust workplace discrimination, including being passed over for promotion. The bill is necessary to ensure equal employment opportunities and prohibit discrimination based on caregiver status.

The bill expands civil service examination announcements to bridge information gaps and increase awareness of public-sector employment opportunities. It promotes diversity within the public workforce and addresses staffing shortages that have impacted service delivery to New Yorkers.

Shared personal experience losing his younger sister to overdose in the 1970s and supported harm reduction measures like overdose prevention centers. He framed the issue as personal and called for compassionate responses to save lives.

Disagreed with Sen. Rhoads' interpretation of the Tenant Protection Act, noting that children are not signatories to leases and should not be named in legal proceedings, framing it as an accountability matter for adults.

The amendment fulfills the Senate's duty to pass the ERA a second time and will codify reproductive rights and protections against discrimination for women and LGBTQI individuals at a time when these rights are under attack nationally.

Sponsor argued the bill establishes standard operating procedures to prevent bad faith litigation that circumvents the democratic process. Cited a 2022 case where Republicans filed a lawsuit in Saratoga County challenging absentee ballot provisions, resulting in approximately 188,000 ballots being threatened. The bill aims to reduce partisan gamesmanship and forum shopping while maintaining access through jurisdictional Appellate Divisions.