Senate Floor Session — Regular Session

The Senate will come to order. I ask everyone present to please rise and recite the Pledge of Allegiance. (Whereupon, the assemblage recited the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.)

Reading of the Journal.

Without objection, the Journal stands approved as read. Presentation of petitions. Messages from the Assembly. The Secretary will read.

So ordered. Messages from the Governor. Reports of standing committees. Reports of select committees. Communications and reports from state officers. Motions and resolutions. Senator Gianaris.

Good afternoon.

The Secretary will read.

Move to reconsider the vote by which the bill was passed.

Ayes, 59.

I offer the following amendments.

I also offer amendments to the following Third Reading Calendar bills: By Senator Cooney, page 22, Calendar Number 943, Senate Print 9056; By Senator Myrie, page 25, Calendar 1027, Senate Print 3789B.

I didn't hear you, I apologize. Moving on to resolutions, we had such a great time yesterday I thought we'd take up my resolution again. (Laughter.)

All those in favor of adopting the Resolution Calendar, with the exception of Resolutions 2138, 2143, and 2285, please signify by saying aye. (Response of "Aye.")

The Resolution Committee is adopted. Senator Gianaris.

There will be an immediate meeting of the Rules Committee in Room 332. The Secretary will read.

Senator Hinchey on the resolution.

Thank you. To the relatives and friends of Hudson Talbott, I offer you our condolences. Thank you for being here. I welcome you on behalf of the Senate. We extend to you the privileges and courtesies of this house. Please rise and be recognized. (Standing ovation.)

Opposed, nay. (No response.)

Madam President, let's please recognize Senator Harckham for an introduction.

Thank you very much, Madam President. You know, as elected officials we get a lot of the attention, whether it's here in the chamber or back in the district with constituents. But we would be nowhere without our talented staff, the folks who have the energy, the ideas, put in the long hours. And that extends to our interns, very talented young people who want to learn about public service. And to the curmudgeons we run into from time to time who bemoan the next generation, I say to them they should pound sand, because we have some remarkable young folks here who are offering their time and their talents to learn service and step up to be the next generation of leaders. I feel very good not only about the interns in my office, but also the interns I meet in many of your offices. So, Madam President, I have from our Peekskill office, visiting today to learn more about what we do here: Megan Crowe, Declan Whalen, Kevin O'Connell, Jared Delventhal, Rhea Neronin, Aniyah Morte, and James Colodner. And with them from our crackerjack Constituent Affairs Team: Peter Lombardo and Kathleen Clarke. And I also want to make a note, sitting behind me is a remarkable young woman who came to us as a session assistant and stayed on a legislative aide. Today is her last day: Zara Pinar. So, Madam President, if you would welcome them to the chamber and extend to them the courtesies of the house, I would be greatly appreciative. Thank you.

Senator Serrano.

The Secretary will read.

Senator Hinchey on the resolution.

Thank you, Senator. Senator Borrello on the resolution.

Senator Oberacker on the resolution.

Thank you. The resolution was adopted on April 21st. Senator Gianaris.

Senator Tedisco for an introduction.

To our students from Niskayuna, congratulations on your academic excellence. Keep aiming high. I welcome you on behalf of the Senate. We extend to you the privileges and courtesies of this house. And to your academic leaders, congratulations on a job well done. Please rise and be recognized. (Standing ovation.)

Let's move on to previously adopted Resolution 1472, by Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, read its title and call on Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, please.

Resolution 1472, by Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, commending Gabriella Scheer upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an individual by the New York State Senate.

Thank you, Madam President. I rise today to recognize a special constituent from my district who's here with us in the chamber, Gabriella Scheer. Gabby is here with her family from Long Island, and I am proud to welcome her to the State Senate chamber. In April of 2025, Gabby was at work at a local hair salon and her boss wasn't feeling well. While in the back of the salon, she heard a loud noise from the front and feared that something terrible had happened. When she came forward, her boss was not standing behind the counter. She looked behind the counter and found that he was unconscious on the floor. In that moment, many people would have frozen, but Gabby did not. Her instincts took over. She called 911 immediately. And despite not having any formal training, she began performing CPR with the assistance of the 911 operator. When the members of the Franklin Square & Munson Fire Department arrived, they told Gabby to continue with CPR since she was in such a good rhythm. Because of Gabby's quick thinking, composure, and willingness to act, a pulse was restored before her boss was transported to the hospital. Her efforts weren't done at that point. When they took him to the hospital, she stayed behind to make sure that the salon was properly closed up and continued. Gabby's courage and willingness to act is a reflection of the family that she comes from. She is one of two daughters of George and Fara Scheer. Her father George served for 15 years with the FDNY at Engine 249, and for nearly three decades in the Malverne Volunteer Fire Department. George unfortunately passed away (tearing up) at the age of 47 in 2018. He has left a hole in this family -- excuse me -- and in the Malverne community. He was a dear friend of mine, and I know today he is smiling down on Gabby for continuing the family legacy of service, courage, and stepping forward when others need help. Due to her efforts, Gabby and the family in the Franklin Square & Munson Fire Department saved a life. It is my honor to award Gabby with the highest award in New York State, the New York State Liberty Medal. And I ask today that we welcome her and her family and extend all the cordialities and privileges of this chamber. Thank you, Madam President.

The resolution was adopted on January 28th. Senator Gianaris.

Senator Weber for an introduction.

Thank you. He's just been smiling and -- (Laughter.)

To the Hartstein family, I hope you really enjoyed your experience here today. I welcome you on behalf of the Senate. We extend to you the privileges and courtesies of this house. Please continue standing and be recognized. (Standing ovation.)

Next up is an introduction by Senator Bottcher.

Thank you, Madam President. Today we are joined by Diana Cochran. Diana is the mother of Francesco, whose life was cut short tragically at the age of 17. No parent should ever have to endure the loss of a child. And Diana could have suffered this loss alone, privately, no one would have blamed her for doing that. But instead, she turned her grief into action. She chose to relive the most painful chapter in her life by sharing her story, by coming to Albany to advocate for safe-storage-of-firearms laws. When I think about Diana, I think about my own mother. As many of you know, I survived suicide attempts as a teen. And I'm thankful that I survived, because I've lived a life that's beyond anything I ever dreamt of. But I'm most thankful because I think about the lifetime of anguish and pain that my family would have experienced, including my mother. So Diana, you've moved hearts, you've changed minds, and you've saved lives. We thank you on behalf of so many. We welcome you here today.

Senator Serrano.

The Secretary will read.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 188, voting in the negative: Senator Walczyk. Ayes, 59. Nays, 1.

Calendar Number 356, Assembly Bill Number 5894A, by Assemblymember Berger, an act to amend the Workers' Compensation Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Thank you very much, Madam President. I just wanted to talk about the importance of this bill. This bill is a -- has been on the agenda for many years now, carried by Senator Parker. And I am absolutely elated that it is finally, at long last, passing this chamber. It passed the Assembly a few weeks ago. Acupuncture, as many of us know -- and I came to personally know just a few weeks ago -- has been a form of medicine treatment for thousands of years. And yet for a long time here in the State of New York it was not recognized as such. It has, in the last few decades, become more and more widespread as a treatment for a variety of ailments, but to this day still does not carry the force of insurance coverage that other forms of treatment for illnesses and diseases have. And so this bill will finally allow all of our fellow New Yorkers to access this important kind of treatment that really has been shown to be effective for many, many millennia. So I want to thank Senator Parker for carrying this bill, and I recommend a yes vote on this. Thank you very much, Madam President.

Thank you, Madam President. There's so few holistic practices that are recognized. I'm so glad; I use acupuncture for migraines. It's really a great practice, and I'm very grateful to see this bill come to the floor to have it be covered by insurance, because it really is effective. You can't overdose on it, you can't become addicted to it. So it's really one of the best medical practices. So thank you.

In relation to Calendar 487, voting in the negative are Senators Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Gallivan, Murray, Ortt, Rhoads and Walczyk. Ayes, 54. Nays, 6.

Calendar Number 496, Senate Print 9165, by Senator Cleare, an act to amend the Elder Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 539, voting in the negative are Senators Borrello, Griffo, Lanza, Mayer, O'Mara, Ortt, Palumbo, Rhoads, Skoufis, Tedisco and Walczyk. Also Senator Helming. Ayes, 48. Nays, 12.

Calendar Number 572, Assembly Bill Number 8382A, by Assemblymember Paulin, an act to amend the Family Court Act.

Lay it aside.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 60.

Calendar Number 639, Senate Print 5665B, by Senator Cleare, an act to amend the Public Health Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 681, voting in the negative are Senators Chan, Griffo, O'Mara, Walczyk and Weber. Also Senator Borrello. Also Senator Mattera. Also Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick. (Laughter.)

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 703, voting in the negative: Senator Walczyk. Ayes, 60. Nays, 1.

Calendar Number 707, Senate Print 9517A, by Senator Mayer, an act to amend the Insurance Law.

Section 5. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 722, voting in the negative are Senators Mayer and Ortt. Ayes, 59. Nays, 2.

Calendar Number 725, Assembly Bill Number 10055, by Assemblymember Zaccaro, an act to amend the Elder Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect on the 30th day after it shall have become a law.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 743, Assembly Bill Number 4384B, by Assemblymember Paulin, an act to amend the Education Law.

Section 3. This act shall take effect on the first of July.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 770, Senate Print 8401B, by Senator Sepúlveda, an act to amend the Education Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect one year after it shall have become a law.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 784, voting in the negative: Senator Brisport. Ayes, 60. Nays, 1.

Calendar Number 794, Senate Print 4379, by Senator Comrie, an act to amend the Correction Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 810, voting in the negative are Senators Martinez, Rhoads and Walczyk. Ayes, 58. Nays, 3.

Calendar Number 814, Senate Print 9573, by Senator Rivera, an act to amend the Social Services Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 819, voting in the negative are Senators Borrello, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Chan, Gallivan, Griffo, Helming, Martins, Oberacker, O'Mara, Ortt, Rhoads, Stec, Tedisco, Walczyk, Weber and Weik. Ayes, 45. Nays, 16.

Calendar Number 826, Assembly Bill Number 463B, by Assemblymember Paulin, an act to amend the Public Officers Law.

Section 6. This act shall take effect on the first of January.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Thank you, Madam President. People who watch the Super Bowl this year might have noticed an ad for a doorbell camera that was about how, when a dog got loose in a neighborhood, they were able to pool all the information from the doorbell cameras to find the dog. And a lot of people -- the advertiser thought that everybody was going to be very excited about this feature, but a lot of people saw the ad and were truly creeped out by the idea that the footage from their doorbell cameras were being shared and could become part of a local network like this without their knowledge or consent. Obviously there are reasons for sharing information. Obviously law enforcement should be able to come with a warrant and get access to some of that information. But we believe that it is basic consumer protection to allow people to opt in to these kinds of networks rather than have this information being shared without their knowledge of what is happening on their private property at their own door. So I'm proud of this bill. I'm grateful to everyone who worked on it and grateful to my colleagues for supporting it. I vote aye.

In relation to Calendar 836, voting in the negative are Senators Ashby, Borrello, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Chan, Gallivan, Griffo, Helming, Martins, Mattera, Murray, O'Mara, Ortt, Rhoads, Rolison, Stec, Tedisco, Walczyk, Weber and Weik. Ayes, 42. Nays, 19.

Calendar Number 851, Senate Print 7460, by Senator Rivera, an act to amend the Public Health Law.

Section 4. This act shall take effect on the 180th day after it shall have become a law.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Thank you, Madam President. A few weeks ago we had survivors and victims of sex trafficking come to the Capitol, display courage and talk about their experience and why we needed to act as a Legislature to hold abuserers accountable. That is what this law is about today, making changes to our sex trafficking, labor trafficking, and civil laws to ensure that anyone that is a victim or a survivor of abuse can have a path, can have recourse to recovery from the trauma and harm that was inflicted on them. Most notoriously and famously today, many of those victims and survivors are involved and have been involved with the Epstein case. But for every Epstein survivor there are many more whose names we will never know, who will never make it to the headlines, who deserve the backing, who deserve the support of our laws here in New York State even if the federal government chooses not to act. So I am proud that we are passing this bill today in response to what we have heard from survivors, and I urge all of my colleagues to do the same. Thank you. I vote aye.

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 894, Senate Print 9716, by Senator Cleare, an act to amend the Public Housing Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect on the first of January.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 930, Senate Print 9928A, by Senator Salazar, an act to amend the Executive Law.

Section 4. This act shall take effect immediately.

Senator Salazar to explain her vote.

Senator Salazar to be recorded in the affirmative. Announce the results.

The bill is passed. Senator Serrano.

There will be an immediate meeting of the Finance Committee, in collaboration with the Parks and Recreation Committee, in Room 124.

The Secretary will read.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 944, voting in the negative: Senator Brisport. Ayes, 60. Nays, 1.

Calendar Number 1025, Assembly Bill Number 2538A, by Assemblymember Davila, an act to amend the Social Services Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect September 1, 2026.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1053, Assembly Bill Number 5893A, by Assemblymember Hevesi, an act to amend the Social Services Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1062, Senate Print 7270, by Senator Harckham, an act to amend the Public Officers Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1091, Assembly Bill Number 5115, by Assemblymember Stern, an act to amend the Public Health Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1098, Senate Print 8339, by Senator Comrie, an act to amend the Public Health Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect on the 30th day after it shall have become a law.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Thank you, Madam President. In the summer of 2025, Central Harlem was the epicenter of a Legionnaires' disease outbreak that overspread the community, directly causing almost 10 deaths and seriously harming well over a hundred others. And of course these are only the reported numbers. I introduced a four-bill package to help us eradicate Legionnaires', and we have got three more to go. But at the moment I am glad that we are going to establish a Legionnaires' Disease Awareness and Education Program under the Department of Health so funding and resources can be brought to bear on the situation. Legionella bacteria is omnipresent in freshwater; that is a fact of life. But we have the tools and resources to address it and eradicate it at the source, much as we have done for other bacteria such as those that cause cholera, wherein there are only 20 cases per year in the entire country. We need to be doing the same thing for Legionella, which has a 10 percent mortality rate and upwards of 70,000 people affected each year. On behalf of my community and all of New York State, I say never again. And I vote aye.

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1102, Assembly Bill Number 10243, by Assemblymember Paulin, an act to amend the Social Services Law.

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1120, voting in the negative: Senator Walczyk. Ayes, 60. Nays, 1.

Senator Sanders moves to discharge, from the Committee on Rules, Assembly Bill Number 10866C and substitute it for the identical Senate Bill 9987B, Third Reading Calendar 1122.

Calendar Number 1122, Assembly Bill Number 10866C, by Assemblymember Pheffer Amato, an act in relation to authorizing the City of New York to discontinue certain parkland in the Borough of Queens.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1124, voting in the negative are Senators Martins and Walczyk. Ayes, 59. Nays, 2.

Calendar Number 1127, Assembly Bill Number 1062, by Assemblymember Lunsford, an act to amend the Insurance Law.

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1143, Senate Print 8944, by Senator Myrie, an act to amend the Criminal Procedure Law.

Section 4. This act shall take effect immediately.

Senator Myrie to explain his vote.

Senator Myrie to be recorded in the affirmative. Senator Martins to explain his vote.

Senator Martins to be recorded in the negative. Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1149, Senate Print Number 5053B, by Senator Scarcella-Spanton, an act to amend the Administrative Code of the City of New York.

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

There's a home-rule message at the desk. Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1152, voting in the negative: Senator Brisport. Ayes, 60. Nays, 1.

Calendar Number 1154, Assembly Bill Number 7125, by Assemblymember Bichotte Hermelyn, an act to amend the State Finance Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect on the 60th day after it shall have become a law.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1161, Assembly Bill Number 6559C, by Assemblymember Benedetto, an act to amend the Veterans' Services Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect on the 90th day after it shall have become a law.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1179, voting in the negative are Senators Borrello, Chan, Gallivan, Griffo, Lanza, Ortt, Stec, Walczyk and Weik. Ayes, 52. Nays, 9.

Calendar Number 1185, Senate Print 9760, by Senator Gounardes, an act to amend the Civil Practice Law and Rules.

Section 25. This act shall take effect immediately.

Senator Gounardes to explain his vote.

Senator Gounardes to be recorded in the affirmative. Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1212, Assembly Bill Number 9598, by Assemblymember Glick, an act to amend the State Finance Law.

Section 3. This act shall take effect on the 90th day after it shall have become a law.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1833, Senate Print 3188A, by Senator Persaud, an act to amend the Public Service Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect on the first of the calendar month next succeeding the 60th day after it shall have become a law.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1244, Senate Print 2321A, by Senator Fahy, an act to amend the Real Property Tax Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

There's a home-rule message at the desk. Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1246, voting in the negative are Senators Fahy, Skoufis and Weik. Ayes, 58. Nays, 3.

Calendar Number 1247, Senate Print 9345, by Senator Gallivan, an act to amend the General Municipal Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

There's a home-rule message at the desk. Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1249, voting in the negative are Senators Fahy and Skoufis. Ayes, 59. Nays, 2.

Calendar Number 1253, Assembly Bill Number 11162A, by Assemblymember Solages, an act to amend Chapter 308 of the Laws of 2020.

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1260, voting in the negative are Senators O'Mara and Skoufis. Ayes, 59. Nays, 2.

Calendar Number 1274, Senate Print 9061A, by Senator Ortt, an act to amend the Highway Law.

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1287, voting in the negative: Senator Skoufis. Ayes, 60. Nays, 1.

Calendar Number 1288, Assembly Bill Number 10329, by Assemblymember Kassay, an act to amend the Racing, Pari-Mutuel Wagering and Breeding Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect on the first of January.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1292, Assembly Bill Number 10510, by Assemblymember Rozic, an act to amend the Public Service Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Lay it aside.

Calendar Number 1300, Senate Print 9834, by Senator Bailey, an act to amend the General Business Law.

Section 8. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1314, voting in the negative are Senators Borrello, Chan, Mattera, Ortt, Rhoads, Stec, Walczyk, Weber and Weik. Also Senator Palumbo. Also Senator Martins. Also Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick. Ayes, 49. Nays, 12.

Calendar Number 1319, Senate Print 7495A, by Senator Persaud, an act to amend the Public Health Law.

Section 6. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1326, Senate Print 9934A, by Senator Gianaris, an act to amend the General Business Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect on the 90th day after it shall have become a law.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I could not be more proud today to vote aye on Francesco's Law, legislation that will require universal safe storage of the firearms in New York State. As we said before, we are joined today by Diana Cochran, the mother of Francesco, who ended his life at age 17 after gaining access to an unsecured firearm. When I learned about Francesco's story, he reminded me of someone, a teen struggling with his sexuality, bullied at school, someone who lost hope in life, and someone who made the decision to end his life. And of course I'm talking about myself. The difference between Francesco and I is that I did not have access to an unsecured firearm. If I did, there is no doubt in my mind I would not be standing here today. Of course we're talking about more than just suicide. Every day in America a child accesses an unsecured firearm and uses it to shoot or kill someone. Seventy to 80 percent of school shooters under the age of 18 accessed a firearm from their home or someone else's home. And unsecured guns are frequently used in crimes when they're stolen from a home. So today we're passing legislation that will save lives. It will bring us in line with states around the country that have universal safe storage laws. There's no reason for the amount of pain that we've seen caused by unsecured firearms. Madam Speaker, I vote aye.

In relation to Calendar 1411, voting in the negative are Senators Ashby, Borrello, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Gallivan, Griffo, Lanza, Mattera, Murray, Oberacker, Ortt, Rhoads, Rolison, Ryan, Stec, Walczyk, Weber and Weik. Ayes, 44. Nays, 17.

Calendar Number 1417, Senate Print 9820A, by Senator Borrello, an act in relation to authorizing the City of Olean assessor to accept an application for a real property tax exemption.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Madam President, there's a report of the Rules Committee at the desk. Can we take that up, please.

Senator Stewart-Cousins, from the Committee on Rules, reports the following bills: Senate Print 84, by Senator Liu, an act to amend Chapter 802 of the Laws of 1947; Senate Print 290A, by Senator Rhoads, an act to amend the Highway Law; Senate Print 1357, by Senator Stec, an act to amend the Public Authorities Law; Senate Print 1443A, by Senator Borrello, an act to amend the Town Law and the Public Officers Law; Senate Print 1728A, by Senator Brouk, an act to amend the Mental Hygiene Law; Senate Print 3445, by Senator Helming, an act to amend the Village Law; Senate Print 3618, by Senator Ortt, an act to amend the State Finance Law; Senate Print 4052, by Senator Skoufis, an act to amend the Labor Law; Senate Print 4102, by Senator Parker, an act to amend the Mental Hygiene Law; Senate Print 4441, by Senator Stec, an act to amend the Environmental Conservation Law; Senate Print 4713A, by Senator Fahy, an act to amend the Mental Hygiene Law; Senate Print 5387, by Senator Harckham, an act directing the Commissioner of Transportation to waive an annual security deposit fee; Senate Print 5407A, by Senator Harckham, an act to amend the Mental Hygiene Law; Senate Print 6018, by Senator Baskin, an act in relation to authorizing and directing the New York State Power Authority to rename the Robert Moses Niagara Power Plant to the Shirley J. Hamilton Niagara Power Plant; Senate Print 7038, by Senator Griffo, an act to amend the Vehicle and Traffic Law; Senate Print 7096, by Senator Lanza, an act to amend the General Business Law; Senate Print 7674, by Senator Baskin, an act to amend the Uniform City Court Act; Senate Print 7844A, by Senator Baskin, an act to authorize the widow of Gerald J. Sullivan to file an application with the New York State and Local Police and Fire Retirement System; Senate Print 8082, by Senator Brouk, an act to amend the Mental Hygiene Law; Senate Print 8348A, by Senator Tedisco, an act to amend the Highway Law; Senate Print 8389, by Senator Ramos, an act to amend the Labor Law; Senate Print 8439B, by Senator Webb, an act to amend the Public Authorities Law; Senate Print 8875, by Senator Rhoads, an act to amend the Elder Law; Senate Print 8924, by Senator Ryan, an act to amend the Canal Law; Senate Print 8938, by Senator Oberacker, an act to amend the General Municipal Law; Senate Print 9128, by Senator Stec, an act in relation to authorizing the County of Warren to offer an optional 20-year retirement plan to Bradley Murphy; Senate Print 9181, by Senator Baskin, an act to amend the Local Finance Law; Senate Print 9212, by Senator Skoufis, an act to amend the Retirement and Social Security Law; Senate Print 9213, by Senator Skoufis, an act to amend the Retirement and Social Security Law; Senate Print 9248, by Senator Skoufis, an act to amend the Village Law; Senate Print 9367A, by Senator Bailey, an act to amend Chapter 589 of the Laws of 2015; Senate Print 9447A, by Senator Harckham, an act to amend the Village Law; Senate Print 9481A, by Senator Helming, an act to amend the Highway Law; Senate Print 9489, by Senator Helming, an act to amend the Highway Law; Senate Print 9492A, by Senator Baskin, an act to amend Chapter 108 of the Laws of 2016; Senate Print 9501, by Senator Comrie, an act to amend the General Business Law; Senate Print 9505, by Senator Rolison, an act to amend the Highway Law; Senate Print 9539A, by Senator Bynoe, an act to amend the Public Health Law; Senate Print 9576, by Senator Bailey, an act to amend the Private Housing Finance Law; Senate Print 9617A, by Senator Harckham, an act to amend subpart H of Part C of Chapter 20 of the Laws of 2015; Senate Print 9652, by Senator Bottcher, an act to amend the Administrative Code of the City of New York; Senate Print 9729A, by Senator Cooney, an act to amend the Highway Law; Senate Print 9824, by Senator Sepúlveda, an act to amend the Criminal Procedure Law; Senate Print 9863, by Senator Skoufis, an act to amend the Vehicle and Traffic Law; Senate Print 9864, by Senator Skoufis, an act to amend the Vehicle and Traffic Law and the Public Officers Law; Senate Print 9869, by Senator Brouk, an act in relation to establishing a task force to study aging in place in mental health housing; Senate Print 9947A, by Senator Mattera, an act to amend Chapter 63 of the Laws of 1971; Senate Print 9969, by Senator O'Mara, an act to amend the Town Law; Senate Print 9971, by Senator Weber, an act authorizing the Congregation Atzei Chaim to receive retroactive real property tax-exempt status; Senate Print 10085A, by Senator Jackson, an act to amend the Retirement and Social Security Law; Senate Print 10080A, by Senator Harckham, an act to amend the Real Property Tax Law; Senate Print 10194A, by Senator Bottcher, an act to amend the Coordinated Construction Act for Lower Manhattan; Senate Print 10195A, by Senator Bottcher, an act to amend Chapter 322 of the Laws of 2014; Senate Print 10264, by Senator Webb, an act to amend the General Municipal Law; Senate Print 10295A, by Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, an act in relation to authorizing the Village of New Hyde Park to file an application for exemption from real property taxes; Senate Print 10319, by Senator Webb, an act to amend the Tax Law; Senate Print 10321A, by Senator Bynoe, an act authorizing the assessor of the County of Nassau to accept from the Town of Hempstead an application for exemption from real property taxes; Senate Print 10396, by Senator Ryan, an act to amend the General Municipal Law; Senate Print 10442, by Senator Kavanagh, an act to amend the Private Housing Finance Law; Senate Print 10484A, by Senator Serrano, an act to amend Chapter 192 of the Laws of 2011; Senate Print 10488, by Senator Bynoe, an act in relation to authorizing the Power House Church to file an application for a retroactive real property tax exemption; Senate Print 10522A, by Senator Weber, an act in relation to authorizing the Town of Clarkstown in Rockland County to alienate certain lands used as parklands; Senate Print 10553, by Senator May, an act to amend Chapter 519 of the Laws of 2024; Senate Print 10556, by Senator Webb, an act to amend the Tax Law; Senate Print 10564, by Senator Stewart-Cousins, an act to amend the Vehicle and Traffic Law; Senate Print 10571, by Senator Stavisky, an act to amend Part D of Chapter 58 of the Laws of 2011; Senate Print 10572, by Senator Stewart-Cousins, an act to amend Chapter 617 of the Laws of 1937; Senate Print 10575, by Senator Baskin, an act to amend the Economic Development Law; Senate Print 10579, by Senator Sanders, an act to amend Chapter 62 of the Laws of 2011; Senate Print 10581, by Senator Bailey, an act to amend Chapter 490 of the Laws of 2017; Senate Print 10582, by Senator Bailey, an act to amend the Insurance Law; Senate Print 10583, by Senator Webb, an act to amend Chapter 152 of the Laws of 2020; Senate Print 10589, by Senator Persaud, an act to amend Chapter 436 of the Laws of 1997; Senate Print 10590, by Senator Jackson, an act to amend the Retirement and Social Security Law; Senate Print 10591, by Senator Sepúlveda, an act to amend the Civil Practice Law and Rules; Senate Print 10595, by Senator Bynoe, an act to amend Chapter 401 of the Laws of 2002; Senate Print 10604, by Senator Sepúlveda, an act to amend the Judiciary Law; Senate Print 10605, by Senator Jackson, an act to amend the Retirement and Social Security Law; Senate Print 10609, by Senator Bottcher, an act to amend the Tax Law. All bills reported direct to third reading.

All those in favor of accepting the report of the Rules Committee please signify by saying aye. (Response of "Aye.")

The report of the Rules Committee is accepted. Senator Gianaris.

Madam President, I think they're here. Let's recognize Senator Cleare for an introduction.

Thank you, Madam President. I rise on behalf of all of the legislators who collectively serve more than 8 million New Yorkers of color through membership in the New York State Association of Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic and Asian Legislators, to recognize and applaud an extraordinary group of young scholars. Today we have with us 29 of the very best and brightest minds of this generation -- individuals who are not only educationally excellent but civic and socially minded. The 29 individuals in the gallery are the most recent scholarship recipients from the association in a tradition dating back several decades and multiple generations to the days of Arthur O. Eve and Constance Baker Motley. The association has always believed in giving back and empowering the next generation. And to this end, they have always supported the higher education goals of Black, Hispanic and other students of color. The association is deeply committed to removing financial barriers that stand between talented students and their futures. The association awarded more than $160,000 in scholarships to students attending colleges across New York State by the close of its 2025 fiscal year. Madam President, would you please give these incredible guests all the privileges and cordialities of the Senate. They are their ancestors' wildest dreams. Thank you.

Senator Gianaris.

There are substitutions at the desk. The Secretary will read.

Substitutions so ordered. The Secretary will read.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1525, voting in the negative are Senators Chan, Gallivan, Lanza, Mattera, Murray, Oberacker, Ortt, Palumbo, Rhoads, Rolison, Skoufis, Stec, Walczyk, Weber and Weik. Ayes, 46. Nays, 15.

Calendar Number 1526, Senate Print 290A, by Senator Rhoads, an act to amend the Highway Law.

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1528, Senate Print 1443A, by Senator Borrello, an act to amend the Town Law.

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1530, Senate Print 3445, by Senator Helming, an act to amend the Village Law.

The bill is laid aside for the day.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1532, Senate Print 4052, by Senator Skoufis, an act to amend the Labor Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1534, Senate Print 4441, by Senator Stec, an act to amend the Environmental Conservation Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1535, voting in the negative: Senator Walczyk. Ayes, 60. Nays, 1.

Calendar Number 1536, Senate Print 5387, by Senator Harckham, an act directing the Commissioner of Transportation to waive an annual security deposit fee.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1538, Senate Print 6018, by Senator Baskin, an act in relation to authorizing and directing the New York State Power Authority to rename the Robert Moses Niagara Power Plant to the Shirley J. Hamilton Niagara Power Plant.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1540, Senate Print 7096, by Senator Lanza, an act to amend the General Business Law.

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1542, Assembly Bill Number 8874A, by Assemblymember Burke, an act in relation to authorizing the widow of Gerald J. Sullivan to file an application with the New York State and Local Police and Fire Retirement System.

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1544, Assembly Bill Number 8798A, by Assemblymember Woerner, an act to amend the Highway Law.

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1546, Assembly Bill Number 8470B, by Assemblymember Magnarelli, an act to amend the Public Authorities Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results. Excuse me. Senator Webb to explain her vote. Sorry.

Senator Webb to be recorded in the affirmative. Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Thank you, Madam President. Informal home caregivers are probably the unsung heroes of our healthcare system in many ways. They use their time and use their talents staying home and caring for a family member who is in need. That benefits not only that family member, but obviously benefits society as a whole because it improves outcomes for the disabled individuals that they care for, reducing hospitalizations, delays in institutionalization, and providing essentially free healthcare which the state would otherwise have to bear the burden of. And this doesn't come without a cost. That cost is often the emotional strain, exhaustion, and issues that this bill is attempting to address. By offering dedicated mental health services and emotional support, the bill directly addresses the stress and isolation and burnout that's experienced by unpaid family caregivers. I want to thank my legislative team that worked on this, especially Drew Retmanski, who incidentally was an intern with our office -- is an intern with our office, and is a high school senior at Plainview-Old Bethpage High School in Plainview, Long Island, who helped to work on this bill based on his experience with his grandmother. But I am proud to vote aye, and I would encourage my colleagues to do the same. Thank you, Madam President.

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1548, Assembly Bill Number 10117, by Assemblymember Stirpe, an act to amend the Canal Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1549, voting in the negative are Senators Martinez, Scarcella-Spanton and Skoufis. Ayes, 58. Nays, 3.

Calendar Number 1550, Senate Print 9128, by Senator Stec, an act in relation to authorizing the County of Warren to offer an optional 20-year retirement plan to Bradley Murphy.

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

There's a home-rule message at the desk. Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1552, Senate Print 9212, by Senator Skoufis, an act to amend the Retirement and Social Security Law.

Section 4. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

There's a home-rule message at the desk. Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1553, voting in the negative: Senator Brisport. Ayes, 60. Nays, 1.

Calendar Number 1554, Senate Print 9248, by Senator Skoufis, an act to amend the Village Law.

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1556, Senate Print 9447A, by Senator Harckham, an act to amend the Village Law.

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1558, Senate Print 9489, by Senator Helming, an act to amend the Highway Law.

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

There's a home-rule message at the desk. Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1560, Assembly Bill Number 9381B, by Assemblymember Dinowitz, an act to amend the General Business Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1561, voting in the negative: Senator Brisport. Ayes, 60. Nays, 1.

Calendar Number 1562, Senate Print 9539A, by Senator Bynoe, an act to amend the Public Health Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect on the 180th day after it shall have become a law.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

The Secretary will call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1563, voting in the negative are Senators Borrello, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Chan, Gallivan, Griffo, Helming, Lanza, Martins, Mattera, Murray, O'Mara, Ortt, Palumbo, Rhoads, Stec, Tedisco, Walczyk and Weik. Ayes, 43. Nays, 18.

Calendar Number 1564, Senate Print 9617A, by Senator Harckham, an act to amend subpart H of Part C of Chapter 20 of the Laws of 2015.

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1565, voting in the negative are Senators Ashby, Borrello, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Chan, Gallivan, Griffo, Helming, Lanza, Martins, Mattera, Murray, O'Mara, Ortt, Palumbo, Rhoads, Rolison, Stec, Tedisco, Walczyk, Weber and Weik. Ayes, 40. Nays, 21.

Calendar Number 1566, Senate Print 9729A, by Senator Cooney, an act to amend the Highway Law.

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1567, voting in the negative are Senators Chan, Lanza, Mattera, Rhoads, Stec, Walczyk, Weber and Weik. Ayes, 53. Nays, 8.

Calendar Number 1568, Senate Print 9863, by Senator Skoufis, an act to amend the Vehicle and Traffic Law.

Section 4. This act shall take effect on the 30th day after it shall have become a law.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

There's a home-rule message at the desk. Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1569, voting in the negative are Senators Martinez, Murray and Ortt. Ayes, 58. Nays, 3.

Calendar Number 1570, Senate Print 9869, by Senator Brouk, an act in relation to establishing a task force to study aging.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1572, Senate Print 9969, by Senator O'Mara, an act to amend the Town Law.

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1573, voting in the negative: Senator O'Mara. Ayes, 60. Nays, 1.

Calendar Number 1574, Senate Print 10085A, by Senator Jackson, an act to amend the Retirement and Social Security Law.

Section 21. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1576, Assembly Bill Number 11454, by Assemblymember Burke, an act to amend the Coordinated Construction Act for Lower Manhattan.

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1578, Senate Print 10264, by Senator Webb, an act to amend the General Municipal Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1579, voting in the negative are Senators O'Mara and Skoufis. Ayes, 59. Nays, 2.

Calendar Number 1580, Senate Print 10319, by Senator Webb, an act to amend the Tax Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Lay it aside for the day.

Calendar Number 1582, Senate Print 10396, by Senator Ryan, an act to amend the General Municipal Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed. There's a substitution at the desk. The Secretary will read.

The Secretary will read.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1583, voting in the negative are Senators Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Chan, Gallivan, Griffo, Helming, Lanza, Martins, Mattera, Murray, O'Mara, Ortt, Palumbo, Rhoads, Stec, Tedisco, Walczyk, Weber and Weik. Ayes, 43. Nays, 18.

Calendar Number 1584, Senate Print 10484A, by Senator Serrano, an act to amend Chapter 192 of the Laws of 2011.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1585, voting in the negative: Senators O'Mara and Skoufis. Ayes, 59. Nays, 2.

Calendar Number 1586, Assembly Bill Number 11386A, by Assemblymember Carroll, an act in relation to authorizing the Town of Clarkstown, in Rockland County, to alienate certain lands used as parklands.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed. There's a substitution at the desk. The Secretary will read.

The Secretary will read.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1587, voting in the negative are Senators Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Lanza, Martinez, Ryan, Scarcella-Spanton, Skoufis, Tedisco and Weik. Ayes, 53. Nays, 8.

Calendar Number 1588, Senate Print 10556, by Senator Webb, an act to amend the Tax Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

There's a home-rule message at the desk. Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1589, voting in the negative: Senator Martinez. Ayes, 60. Nays, 1.

Calendar Number 1590, Senate Print 10571, by Senator Stavisky, an act to amend Part D of Chapter 58 of the Laws of 2011.

Section 4. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1592, Assembly Bill Number 10851, by Assemblymember Stirpe, an act to amend the Economic Development Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1594, Assembly Bill Number 11366, by Assemblymember Taylor, an act to amend Chapter 490 of the Laws of 2017.

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1596, Senate Print 10583, by Senator Webb, an act to amend Chapter 152 of the Laws of 2020.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1597, voting in the negative are Senators Griffo, Lanza, O'Mara, Ortt, Rhoads, Walczyk and Weik. Ayes, 54. Nays, 7.

Calendar Number 1598, Senate Print 10590, by Senator Jackson, an act to amend the Retirement and Social Security Law.

Section 6. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1600, Assembly Bill Number 11487, by Assemblymember Lavine, an act to amend Chapter 401 of the Laws of 2002.

Section 4. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1601, voting in the negative: Senator Ortt. Ayes, 60. Nays, 1.

Calendar Number 1602, Senate Print 10605, by Senator Jackson, an act to amend the Retirement and Social Security Law.

Section 5. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 1603, voting in the negative are Senators Ashby, Borrello, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Chan, Gallivan, Helming, Lanza, Martinez, Martins, Mattera, Murray, O'Mara, Ortt, Palumbo, Rhoads, Ryan, Scarcella-Spanton, Tedisco and Weik. Also Senator Griffo. Ayes, 41. Nays, 20.

Madam President, there will be an immediate joint meeting of the Veterans and Finance committees in Room 124.

And we will proceed with the controversial calendar.

Calendar Number 572, Assembly Bill Number 8382A, by Assemblymember Paulin, an act to amend the Family Court Act.

Thank you, Madam President. Would the sponsor yield for a few questions, please.

The Senator yields.

Thank you. Mr. President, on the bill, please.

And thank you, Senator Sepúlveda. I actually had a follow-up question of could you explain why, but that was so thorough you covered all of that. So thank you very much. But here's my concern. I understand there are -- and you had stated a couple of specific examples, and I understand that that will arise, especially when it comes to law. There's always something here or there that needs to be adjusted or fixed. The problem is that we're changing these terms in law, in New York State law, we're amending the Family Court Act, the Civil Practice Law and Rules, Domestic Relations Law, the Executive Law, the Judiciary Law, the Social Services Law -- there's several others. Basically, we're changing the laws of New York to get rid of the term "mother," to get rid of the term "father." These terms -- these terms matter. And I can pause if you need to run by or something. I didn't want to -- SENATOR SEPÚLVEDA: No, no.

Thank you, Senator Murray. Are there any other Senators wishing to be heard? Seeing and hearing none, debate is closed. Senator Gianaris.

On consent, the bill is restored to the noncontroversial calendar. Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Thank you, Mr. President. This vote shouldn't really need an explanation. This bill before us right now for a vote replaces the terms "father" and "mother" to gender-neutral language in New York State's laws. I vote no.

In relation to Calendar 572, voting in the negative are Senators Borrello, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Chan, Lanza, Martins, Mattera, Murray, Oberacker, Ortt, Palumbo, Rhoads, Tedisco, Walczyk and Weik. Ayes, 47. Nays, 14. Oh, sorry. Also Senator Rolison. Ayes, 46. Nays, 15.

Calendar Number 1297, Senate Print 8925A, by Senator Ryan, an act to amend the General Business Law.

Mr. President, would the sponsor yield for a question.

I do.

Through you, Mr. President, I sure do.

Through you, Mr. President. So what other states have done this. Let's see. We have Louisiana, August 1, 2025. It's now on a Schedule I controlled substance list. Florida, August 13, 2025, has -- is now a Schedule I controlled substance. California. Rhode Island had its little bit of a difference in Rhode Island. Additional states this year: Ohio, Virginia, Arizona have all enacted or are pursuing restrictions on synthetic or concentrated 7-OH. And Mississippi and Colorado have full bans, Senator Borrello.

Would the sponsor yield?

The Senator yields.

What has occurred in those states?

I don't know. I don't represent those states.

Yes, Senator Borrello, please clarify.

In those states I would presume, I would hope that less people are dying.

Will the sponsor yield?

The sponsor yields.

The opinions of those who are not --

Senator Borrello, I would urge you to take a look at the U.S. Food add Drug Administration, 7-OH. By the way, I want to tell you, it's 7-Hydroxymitragynine. And I'll take it that is -- they have done a study and an assessment of the scientific data and the toxicology concerns around an emerging opioid threat from 7-OH, or as we like to call it -- some people do -- the gas-station opioid.

Will the sponsor yield?

The sponsor yields.

Well, I guess -- I guess the -- through you, Mr. President, I guess the very, very, very, very harmful synthetic substances that will go into making the 7-OH, synthetic kratom 7-OH, technically will still be legal because I don't think we would want to ban all of those substances. But what this does, we'll take the kratom in and of itself, the 2 percent, in addition. So that's what the law does. So if it's in excess of 2 percent, that's when it becomes harmful and is killing people. So the substance in and of itself will still be legal because it has medicinal qualities and can be sold with that minor threshold, less than 2 percent. But everything over the 2 percent, mixed with the very, very dangerous substances and sold at higher dosage, is what's killing people.

Will the sponsor yield?

The sponsor yields.

Through you, Mr. President. I don't -- I don't know if I think that that's -- Senator Borrello, I think that could be speculative whether this will create a black market. I don't know if we could control that. All we're trying to do is control the fact that there is -- you're taking a legal substance, kratom, which has medicinal value, creating a synthetic drug that is 13 times more potent than morphine, more addictive than many other opioids, mixing that with terrible, terrible, terrible chemicals, selling it over the counter in gas stations. And I think just the intent behind this is that -- people are dying, people are becoming addicted. It is being used, I guess, and/or categorized as a means to help come off of opioid addiction; it's actually making things worse. So I guess with that said, I don't know if it's going to lead to illicit 7-OH somewhere. I don't know, I guess maybe people find a way. But what I'm just trying to do is legally stop the sale of such said products in corner grocery stores that my 18- or 20-year-old kid could go in and buy tomorrow.

Senator Borrello on the bill.

Thank you, Senator Borrello. Are there any other Senators wishing to be heard? Seeing and hearing none, debate is closed. Senator Gianaris.

On consent, the bill is restored to the noncontroversial calendar. Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Thank you, Mr. President. So obviously I rise in support of Bill 8925A, a pretty straightforward consumer protection measure that addresses the growing presence of synthetic 7-OH products in New York's marketplace. While 7-OH naturally exists in kratom at trace levels, manufacturers have developed ways to concentrate it far beyond what occurs in nature, creating products with significantly greater potency. These products are increasingly being sold in convenience stores, gas stations and online, with limited oversight and inadequate consumer information. The bill draws a clear line between natural kratom and these highly concentrated derivatives. It does not prohibit natural kratom products. I believe, as lawmakers here, we have a great responsibility to ensure that products being sold to consumers and our children are not creating unnecessary risks to public health and safety. I believe this legislation takes a measured, commonsense approach to doing exactly just that, and I vote in the affirmative. Thank you, Mr. President.

Ayes, 61.

Mr. President, to give my colleagues some sense of schedule, we will be dealing with a supplemental calendar later this evening. And in an effort to be efficient, let's take up some of the resolutions that were without guests that we might normally wait till the end of session -- but as we're awaiting that supplemental calendar, let's do the resos. So please take up Resolution 2143, by Senator Sutton, read its title and call on Senator Sutton.

Resolution 2143, by Senator Sutton, recognizing May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage Month in the State of New York.

Last week we paused not only to recognize Jewish American Heritage Month, but to honor a story engrained into the very fabric of New York, the American experience, a story of faith and freedom, struggle and triumph, resilience and unity. The Jewish American story is in many ways the American story itself. For thousands of years the Jewish people carried forward their identity, tradition, faith while enduring persecution, expulsion, pogroms, and the unimaginable horrors of the Holocaust. Yet through every generation the Jewish spirit endured. It endured because it was grounded in something stronger than hatred -- in family and community and in dignity, human dignity. That spirit arrived to these shores in 1654 when 23 Sephardic immigrants came from South America facing the horrors of the Inquisition. They arrived in the face of discrimination to find discrimination here. Despite that, they survived. They founded schools and synagogues. And through courage and determination, they helped shape New York into the vibrant center of culture, commerce, innovation and democracy that it is today. Generation after generation, Jewish Americans helped build this nation. Jewish Americans strengthened every corner of our society, as teachers and scientists, physicians and public servants, artists and entrepreneurs, soldiers and activists. They advanced medicine, elevated the arts, defended democracy, and challenged America to live up its highest ideals. But what makes the Jewish American experience so inspiring is not only perseverance in the face of adversity, it is the deep belief that freedom and justice must belong to everyone. Throughout our nation's history, Jewish Americans stood shoulder to shoulder with other communities in the fight to create a more just America. Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel marching arm in arm with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., in Selma became one of the defining images of moral courage in America. It represents something even greater, and that is the belief that our struggles are connected, that the pain of one community must matter to all communities, and that we rise strongest when we stand united and together. That spirit of solidarity continues today across New York and across America, in neighborhoods where Jewish communities stand alongside Muslim communities, fighting hatred, where Black and Jewish leaders work together for justice, where immigrants of every background find common cause in the promise of freedom, and where Americans of all faiths and traditions recognize that our diversity is not a weakness, but one of our nation's greatest strengths. And that is why Jewish American Heritage Month is not only a celebration of one community, it is a celebration of the American ideal itself -- that people from every background can preserve their identity, contribute to the common good, and build a stronger nation together. But Jewish American Heritage Month also calls us to vigilance. At a time when the scourge of antisemitism is once again on the rise, including here in New York, we must speak clearly and without hesitation: Hate has no home in this state nor in our country. Antisemitism must be condemned wherever it rears its ugly head, because history teaches us that when one community is targeted, the fabric of our democracy is weakened for all. Jewish American Heritage Month calls on us not only to remember history but to carry its lessons forward -- to protect truth, to reject hatred, to defend one another and to ensure future generations understand the extraordinary contributions of the Jewish American community and the enduring values that it represents: Resilience, justice, compassion, faith and hope. May we honor that legacy not only with words but with actions worthy of it. Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank the sponsor for bringing this resolution to the floor today. As I am honored to represent the Five Towns community in the 9th Senate District, which is one of the largest Jewish communities in the state, we need to take this moment to make sure that we acknowledge our Jewish brothers and sisters and recognize their community contributions in science, in the arts, business, public service, and so much more. Despite these wonderful contributions, we do have a rise of antisemitism in our state. In 2025, New York led the nation in reported antisemitic incidents, with over 1160 cases, nearly double the number reported just three years earlier. So that makes this resolution even that much more important. Just recently we had a swastika etched into a window at the Inwood Long Island Rail Road train station in my district. And that's very disturbing and something that we as legislators, bringing awareness to this, it's so important that we do. Everything that we do here in Albany needs to make sure that our constituents know that hate has no place in our state. I'm proud to vote aye on this resolution. Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you, Mr. President. I too rise to support the resolution. And I want to thank Senator Sutton for bringing this resolution to the floor. Mr. President, we live in a time when people will equivocate, they'll conflate, they'll say, No, this isn't antisemitic, I'm talking about Israel or I'm talking about Zionists, and let's not confuse the two. Let's understand, as Senator Sutton said and said well, this is a time for clarity. We need to be clear in how we speak. We need to be clear in our convictions that there's no place for hate in our state, in our institutions. Unfortunately, Mr. President, we've seen time and again instances, especially in institutions of higher learning, colleges, our CUNY system, where we have seen, repeatedly, instances of students being harassed because of their beliefs, because of their religion, because of their outward appearance and indications that they are in fact Jews. We've seen a rise in the boycott, divest and sanction movement also included in many of our universities and in particular in our CUNY system. And frankly it's refreshing to sit here on the floor and to hear colleagues speak to the need for clarity and the importance of us recognizing the contributions of the community and the Jewish community here in New York State and frankly across the country. There isn't a facet of society, whether it's academics, science, arts, law -- at the highest level -- that haven't been influenced, informed by the Jewish community, in part with all the other communities. That's what makes this country so great, the melting pot that is our communities, where Catholics and Jews and Muslims and Hindus and every religion can sit side by side and pass laws and do so peacefully, to advance science and art and to do so collaboratively. And so we're here recognizing Jewish American Heritage Month, but there's a larger question, Mr. President, with regard to what's happening in society today. And I stand with Senator Sutton, I stand with my colleagues here in the Senate, I stand for the clarity that is necessary in recognizing the importance of standing against hate, standing against antisemitism, and standing with our Jewish American communities. Mr. President, I'm proud to vote aye and thank Senator Sutton for the resolution.

Thank you, Mr. President. I rise today to thank the sponsor for this very important resolution. You know, today as we recognize Jewish American Heritage Month here in the New York State Senate, we celebrate the extraordinary contributions Jewish Americans have made to our state, our nation, and especially to Rockland County. In Rockland County Jewish heritage is not simply part of our history, it is a vibrant part of our daily life, our neighborhoods, our schools, our businesses, and the people who make our county strong. Rockland is home to one of the largest Jewish populations in the United States, and the values of faith, family, education, charity and responsibility to others continue to shape our county each and every day. From houses of worship and schools to charitable organizations and local businesses, Jewish residents have helped make Rockland County into the thriving and compassionate place it is today. Their contributions can be seen not only in civic and economic life but in the countless acts of kindness and dedication that strengthen the lives of so many around them. I'm proud of the strong relationship that I've built with Jewish residents throughout Rockland County, and I remain committed to always being accessible, responsible, responsive and present for the people that I represent. Whether celebrating simchas, helping institutions navigate challenges, or standing together during difficult times, those relationships are deeply meaningful to me and to my office. At the same time, Jewish American Heritage Month is not only about celebrating the past. At a time when antisemitism continues to rise across our nation, it is especially important that we recognize and reaffirm that Jewish life, faith and tradition remain an essential part of New York's future. We must continue to stand firmly against hatred, intolerance, and antisemitism in all its forms. Today we celebrate the enduring contributions of Jewish Americans and recommit ourselves to building a future rooted in dignity, understanding, freedom and mutual respect. Again, I want to thank the sponsor, Senator Sutton, for this very important resolution. I proudly vote aye.

Thank you, Mr. President. I rise to support Senator Sutton's resolution to honor Jewish Heritage Month. It's a privilege to be in the Senate district next door to Senator Sutton because we share a common community, and that is our Jewish community. Let's go back 40 years -- 30 years. In 1994 I was a patrolman in the Lower East Side, in the 7th Precinct. I had the privilege of serving the Jewish community over there, in former Assemblyman Sheldon Silver's district over there. And it has been a pleasure, and I continue to learn about that community. Back in high school I took one year of Holocaust classes with a Holocaust survivor, Mrs. Sally Frishberg. And it was an honor and privilege to have known her and learning of her plight as well as the plight of other Jewish people in World War II. So there's nobody in this world that can tell me that the Holocaust did not happen. It absolutely did. As a patrol supervisor, I spent three years in the 66 Precinct, working closely and intimately with our Jewish community -- and by the way, special shout out to the Eisner Brothers of the Lower East Side and Borough Park. Yes, I remember the night after Election Night, a dozen swastikas emerged in my district and Senator Sutton's district. We were incredibly concerned. There's no place to sow hatred in our district or in New York or in America. Or in the world, for that matter. So I want to thank you, Senator Sutton, for bringing forth the attention of the rise of antisemitism as of late, and there is just no room for it. I stand firm with our Jewish community. Thank you.

Thank you, Madam President. I am proud today to call Senator Sutton a colleague and a friend, and I thank him for bringing this resolution to the floor today in honor of all of our Jewish constituents. And I want them to know that we are here for them, making sure we're fighting for policies that are beneficial to them. Thank you so much. I proudly vote aye.

Thank you, Madam President. I too want to rise in support of the resolution. And I also want to thank Senator Sutton for his clarity and his leadership in bringing this resolution to the floor as we celebrate Jewish American history and all of the contributions that the Jewish American community has made to New York State and particularly to Long Island. But it's also a celebration of the common values that we share, the values really that our country was founded upon. And, you know, we all have attended Holocaust memorials where we've said "Never again." But then October 7th of 2023 happened, and all of a sudden "never again" became the here and now as we watched what unfolded on college campuses, as we watched the protests going on in the street, as we continue to watch the violence that's gone on both in the City of New York and across the country. Some of it, unfortunately -- unfortunately ignored by some of the elected officials that we have in the city. Let's use this not just as an opportunity to celebrate Jewish Americans and the contributions that they've made to our country and to our community, but let's use this as an opportunity to refocus our attention on what's truly important in combating antisemitism and the attacks that continue to go on on the Jewish community. Our Republican Conference has had an Antisemitism Working Group that has proposed a number of pieces of legislation which we would love to see at some point in time come to the floor so that we have an opportunity to debate and discuss and hopefully offer some protection against some of the outrageous acts that are going on today. But for this resolution, again, I proudly vote aye. Again, I want to thank Senator Sutton. But let's really focus on trying to be a part of the solution here in the New York State Senate. Our residents are counting on us, and I know that we will not let them down. Thank you, Madam President.

Thank you, Madam President. I wanted to thank Senator Sutton for this important resolution. In this chamber we often disagree on a lot of different things, but these cultural moments are -- should be used as moments to unify as opposed to even attempt to sow the seeds of division or to sow the seeds of division. What we should be doing, with resolutions like this, is making sure we continue to uplift the proud Jewish Americans that have been the fabric of society, as Senator Sutton mentioned, to talk about the relationships that we all have in our communities. Those are things that we should be utilizing these conversations for. That's the purpose of making sure that we uplift a great prideful group of individuals for. That's what we should be doing. I want to make sure we highlight the relationship, as an African-American, the relationship between the African American community and the Jewish American community during the civil rights movement. Critically important, that relationship that we've had. My district does not have a lot of Jewish individuals in it, but when I went to the Bronx High School of Science, it is where I learned that one of the world's most famous Holocaust museums is contained within the Bronx High School of Science. Bronx High School of Science, Madam President. It was really eye-opening, as a high school student who did not come from an area where I lived around many Jewish Americans, to see the pain and the struggle that the Jewish community had gone through and to be able to be in that institution and to have conversations with curators and librarians to talk about the struggle. And to see the triumph in America that the Jewish folks have been able to do. So I just wanted to thank you, Senator Sutton, once again, for your work today -- and all my Jewish colleagues, and all my colleagues who are not Jewish, who we all should endeavor to bind ourselves, to be part of that great beautiful fabric, the gorgeous mosaic, as Mayor Dinkins called it once upon a time. When we have moments like this in the chamber, we get past differences. When we have moments like this in the chamber, we can see things from a different perspective. Madam President, you have the view from the dais and you can see down upon us, and you can see that we're all equal, we're all on equal footing. Moments like this truly equalize us all. I proudly vote aye on this resolution, and I urge my colleagues to do the same. Thank you.

Thank you, Madam Chairwoman. And thank you especially to Senator Sutton and to the leader, Senator Stewart-Cousins, for recognizing how diverse we are. We come from all over the world, our families did, and yet we're here today. As Senator Bailey just said, diversity is our -- I think one of our strongest responses to some of the issues that face us. As chair of the Committee on Higher Education, I want to mention some of the bills that we have passed that have tried to deal with the issue not just of antisemitism but also Islamophobia, racially charged issues, et cetera. Hatred does not belong in our state -- or our country, for that matter. And as a result, in 2023 the Governor, at the Museum of Jewish Heritage, signed my bill which required college campuses in New York State that receive state funding to report incidents of hate on their campus. And they have been doing so. Last year, about the same time as the other legislation, at our office in Manhattan, in a public ceremony, the Governor signed another bill that I was proud to sponsor with Assemblymember Rozic requiring a Title 6 officer on each college campus to deal with some of the problems of hatred, so that if a student or a teacher or a faculty member or anybody affiliated with the college is subjected to these incidents, they have a person to talk to, a person to deal with these issues. And there are many other examples because, as I said, hatred has no place here. And hatred directed at any group is a -- it is a hatred directed at everybody. And lastly, I thank Senator Bailey for mentioning the Holocaust Museum at Science. It is a -- I think the only Holocaust center in a New York City certainly public school. We also have an interesting Holocaust Museum at Queensborough Community College. But it's not just antisemitism. There was a -- the last time I was there, there was a program directed at the Korean "comfort women," the Armenian genocide, all forms of hate. So I thank Senator Sutton again for his resolution. And I proudly, proudly, as a daughter of an immigrant, I vote aye.

Thank you, Madam President. I rise to support the resolution that Senator Sutton brought to get -- celebrating the Jewish community in New York State, celebrating the fact that New York State is a community that -- is a state, rather, that is a melting pot, where people come from all over the world and want to live their life, where the Jewish community came and developed businesses and families and traditions that need to be respected. Those traditions and those opportunities need to be understood and appreciated. You know, I've gotten up before and said that we've lost civics in our schools. We've lost the ability to make sure that our young people understand our cultures. We need to reinstate civics in our schools so that people can understand that all people need to be respected. I'm honored to represent a large part of the Jewish community in Queens -- Kew Gardens Hills, Kew Gardens, Briarwood. Parts of Forest Hills are in my district, where the Jewish community resides. And I'm proud to work with them on particular issues. I've been working in the Jewish community since before I got elected to office, since I've been working back in the Summer Youth Employment Program. It's been important to understand and be able to work with people to understand and respect people's focus, people's culture, and people's dignity. So I'm glad that we're honoring this resolution today, that we're recognizing that we're -- as Jamaicans would say, we're all one people, and we all have to work together. Thank you, Madam President.

Thank you, Madam President. And I just want to thank the sponsor, Senator Sutton, for this very, very important American Jewish Heritage Month. You know, for somebody that lives in a neighborhood in Smithtown, you know, an Italian, Jewish and Irish neighborhood, we never had hate. We all got together. Yeah, we fought and everything like that. We never had any of this hate. And I have a Rabbi that I dearly love. He should be a comedian, he's that funny. On October 7th in 2023 -- excuse me, on October 5th, 2023, we were at his house for the Sukkot. And I go to his home, and I always say this. I go like this, I go to the rabbi, I go, Rabbi, your food is great. But you know one thing about the Italians and Jews, we're very, very close. You know, about family -- and I always thought I was going to be marrying a Jewish girl named Marlene Yugoda {ph}. And there I am sitting there, I go, but you know what, Rabbi? One thing about the Italians, we have better food. We used to -- we laughed. And the next thing you know, October 7th hits us. And I couldn't understand it. I said in these times -- you know, you hear about the Holocaust. You know, history, you know, doesn't want to repeat itself. We don't want that to repeat itself. And I couldn't understand it. I still don't understand it to today. It's going to be three years, coming on to three years October 7th with that horrific day that we all will remember. And we don't want to remember. And, you know, walking, walking the streets with our Jewish friends and our neighbors, crying, looking at the photos of all those beautiful people that were hostages and sitting there praying that they were going to come home. And this is dear to my heart that, in other words, that we need to respect all religions. And again to you, Senator, I just want to say thank you so much for bringing this resolution forward. And again, I'm going to say we do not have any hate in our lives. We need love. Thank you so much. Thank you, Madam President.

Thank you, Madam President. I want to thank Senator Sutton for bringing this resolution forward recognizing Jewish American Heritage Month. Jewish Americans have been a huge part of New York's history for centuries. And in Western New York, that history runs deep. Buffalo's first synagogue, Congregation Beth El, was established in 1847, and it was the first synagogue between New York City and Chicago. And from then on, our region has seen so much growth from Jewish families across our region. In 1863, what would become Jewish Family Services of Western New York was founded to care for the sick and those in need. And then more than 160 years later it remains one of our strongest institutions in Western New York. I just want to thank Senator Sutton again for bringing this bill {sic}. It's an important bill, and I vote aye.

Thank you, Madam President. I too want to add my voice to the chorus of my colleagues in speaking on this resolution. I thank Senator Sutton. And I want to uplift something that Senator Bailey said. You know, these cultural remembrance resolutions are really important -- not only to recognize the rich diversity and the tapestry of diversity that make up our individual districts, our communities, our cities, our states, but to highlight just how important each of these communities are to the greater story that is New York. In my eight years in this chamber I've had the privilege to represent a very, very broad array and diverse array of Jewish constituents. In fact, when I first got elected, Madam President, I used to represent many of the areas that Senator Sutton now represents. And it was a community that I grew to be very, very close to. And as disappointed as I was to lose many of those neighborhoods as the district lines changed, the one saving grace is that it allowed him to join us in this chamber. And as a Greek American, the relationship between Greeks and Jews, between Greek Americans and Jewish Americans, is incredibly, incredibly special. There is a bond that goes back for hundreds if not thousands of years between Greek people and the Jewish people. So much so that there actually is a Greek Jewish synagogue in Manhattan. They just celebrated a wonderful festival just a couple of weeks ago. There is a long history of each community supporting each other, standing with each other. And that relationship stems from a sense of shared values and a sense of shared ethics about what's important, how we value what's important, and how we carry ourselves. And so as we pause today to remember and commemorate Jewish American Heritage Month, I want to wish -- say to all of my constituents who are Jewish that we recognize you, we see you, we value what you bring to our communities, what you bring to our state. And just as we do for any other group, New York belongs to you. Thank you.

Thank you. I too want to join and commend the sponsor, Senator Sutton, on this resolution on Jewish heritage, and rise in support of that resolution. And I should also add Senator Stavisky sent me a little bit down memory lane with a bill that we worked on when I was in the other body, in the Assembly, about the studying and tracking of hate and hate incidences on SUNY and CUNY campuses. That bill was sponsored by Daniel Rosenthal, but it was one that we worked very hard to move through the committee when I was in the other body, and I think it has gone a long way to help. And I should also add, similar to what Senator Comrie has mentioned, it is about trying to teach civics, civil engagement and civil protests as well on our campuses and elsewhere. It is something we -- free speech is something we value, but it's -- there's a lot to be learned here. I should also add it was with great honor last year a longstanding bill to create a New York State Holocaust Memorial here at the Capitol is a bill that we were able to move last year. That is being worked on as we speak. And that's something that is very meaningful to a lot here in our Jewish community. But hopefully it will serve as an educational piece. And I want to add I do think it's important that we all focus on our heritage, our shared history. And I often think if we learned and respected and appreciated our histories more, there would probably be less divisiveness in this country. And with that, again, I thank the sponsor for this resolution and vote aye.

Thank you, Madam President. And thank you, Senator Sutton, for this resolution. I have to say I start with just a position of joy talking about Jewish American heritage. Before we get to the problems of this moment and the antisemitism, it is so joyful to have a resolution that really celebrates our heritage in such a rich way. I always say to my non-Jewish friends: Come to have Passover at my house and see what a chaotic, opinionated, diverse -- just like everyone else's ethnic group, but we have such a rich and beautiful heritage that we celebrate together. And Jews are not a monolith, as we have learned during the last several years. You know, we have Jews that -- like my father, who grew up Jewish but had very little identity, and my mother, who had such a strong Jewish identity. And she just carried it through her life and gave it to all of her children, and I have given it to my children and grandchildren. There is something -- so much to celebrate about Jewish American history in this country. What we have achieved, what we have fought for, who we have fought with, as Senator Sutton mentioned in the resolution. Not only the wonderful things of food and music and culture, but the contributions to literature and academia and law and business -- so much that is rich and positive. And for me, as the last elected official who is Jewish from the City of Yonkers -- which at one time had a thriving Jewish community, but it has changed -- I so appreciate that the city where I live celebrates Jewish life too, for -- so many people who are not Jewish come and celebrate our holidays together, with the mayor and the council, none of whom are Jewish anymore, and all of whom recognize that Jewish American heritage is something that is special and as wonderful as each of their own heritages. But not just in an abstract way, in a real, tangible way of lighting candles together, learning to sing together, learning about the food together. So I'm so appreciative of the beautiful, positive opportunity you give for people like me to celebrate and talk about our culture and our heritage. And then I just want to pivot for a minute to the challenge of this moment and the fact that people are afraid to walk around with a Star of David or a yarmulke or other outward signs of their faith. And that is just simply unacceptable. In this society, in this moment, for anyone to have to hide the outward showing of their faith is simply not acceptable. I think in this chamber we all agree on that. But we have a world to teach about that. And we have not done well enough by our children. Someone spoke about having -- I think Senator Chan spoke about having someone, a Holocaust survivor, come to his school. We need to make sure that our next generation, which may not be exposed to many people of Jewish faith, understands and celebrates the history of Jewish life. We have a world of work to do. I want to commend the State Education Department and encourage you all to look at their updated materials on the Holocaust, that they have done an outstanding job of improving the materials to teach our kids so that we do not stop teaching about it. But the Holocaust is not the end of the Jewish American story, nor the beginning of it. And we have a long way to go to get a generation to understand that celebration of a faith, outward display of a faith, joy and acknowledgment of people's right to worship is so fundamentally American, so fundamental to the success of our democracy. That if we walk away from that, we are walking away from the essence of what makes the United States so great. So I'm so appreciative, Senator Sutton, of the opportunity for me to talk in such joyous terms about my own history and my own heritage. And again, you're all welcome to come to my house, have Passover. If you can be heard above the multiple disagreements about politics and everything else, you're very welcome. That is the joy of the Jewish American heritage in the United States. Today we celebrate it. I vote aye.

Opposed, nay. (No response.)

Let's move on to previously adopted Resolution 2121, by Senator Scarcella-Spanton, read its title and call on Senator Scarcella-Spanton, please.

Resolution 2121, by Senator Scarcella-Spanton, commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America.

Thank you, Madam President. As we prepare to celebrate America's 250th birthday, we are reminded that the story of our nation is not simply the story of our presidents, generals, or famous names in the history books. It is the history of ordinary people who believed in the extraordinary promise of our country. It is the story of immigrants who arrived in New York Harbor seeking opportunity. It's the story of workers who built our cities, veterans who defended our freedoms, parents who sacrificed for their children, and generations of Americans who believed that tomorrow could be better than today and fought hard to ensure that this became a reality. It is the story of Martin Luther King, who advanced civil rights; Mother Jones, who fought for working men, women and children; the story of Harvey Milk, who championed dignity and equality for our LGBTQ community; and Susan B. Anthony, who fought for women's suffrage. Their efforts, and the efforts of countless others, helped us move our nation closer to its founding ideals. For 250 years the United States has remained a nation striving to live up to its ideals of liberty, equality, representative government, and opportunity -- a goal of always becoming more perfect. As a New Yorker, I am especially proud of the role our state has played in this story. From the birth of our democracy to the movements that expanded civil rights, labor rights, and women's rights, New York has often helped lead the nation forward. The American story is also the story of all of you here in this room, helping to shape New York's history and policy in the United States every day. On this 250th anniversary we celebrate not only where America has been, but where we are going. We honor those who came before us, recommit ourselves to the work of self-government, and remember that the American story is still being written every day. Each generation is entrusted with the responsibility to leave our country stronger, freer, and more equitable than we found it before. I am proud to be a part of this body that ensures we do just that. Thank you, Madam President, and I proudly vote aye.

Thank you, Madam President. I too want to commend the sponsor and to vote in support of this resolution. I do think it's important that we mark this moment. It's 250 years ago that a group of colonies came together with an extraordinary declaration that all people are created equal, entitled to liberty, self-governance as well as self-determination. The ideals that were found in the Declaration of Independence ignited a movement for liberty across the world that has endured for generations, even with a number of painful chapters during those generations. Our nation's history has been defined not just by pursuit of these ideals but by this collective determination to live up to them. We have revisited these ideals a lot in the last few years as we realize none of them can be taken for granted. Here in the Capital Region we do take pride in the role that our community has played in securing American independence, including the role of the Hudson River as well as the Battle of Saratoga and more. As we commemorate this anniversary, we should remember that America has been also shaped by immigrants, those who first crossed the ocean seeking religious liberty and economic opportunity, as well as those for generations who arrive from every corner of this globe. Again, many came in pursuit of freedom, of safety and a better life or better opportunity. I'm very proud to say that my parents were two of those individuals. That story continues today, and the American story remains a unique one. Unlike many other nations which grew out of a shared ancestry or tribal history, the United States was really established by a document 250 years ago. Again, it is the shared belief in our democracy and opportunity that each generation can build toward a perfect union. And we have to keep building. As we mark this 250 years of independence, let us honor all of those who fought, all of those who died to create and to defend this nation, as well as those who continue to work to strengthen it and continue to believe in its promise. And with that, Madam President, I vote in the affirmative. Thank you.

Opposed, nay. (No response.)

All right, let's move on and take up previously adopted Resolution 1799, by Senator Mattera, read that resolution's title and call on Senator Mattera.

Resolution 1799, by Senator Mattera, mourning the untimely death and paying tribute to the life and heroic service of Nassau County Police Officer Patricia Espinosa, who died on Saturday, January 31, 2026.

Thank you, Madam President. Today I humbly rise to recognize the life, service, and sacrifice of Nassau County Police Officer Patricia Espinosa. Officer Espinosa, who was from the Second Senate District, living in St. James, who dedicated her life to serving others and protecting her community, was tragically taken from us in an avoidable DWI accident in January, while she was on her way to protect and serve the residents of Nassau County. Officer Espinosa was a daughter, a wife, a mother, and a respected member of the ranks of the men and women in blue who serve the Long Island community, and her loss is felt by so many. Sadly, in a tragic example of the dedication of our law enforcement community, her husband, fellow Nassau County Police Officer Francisco Malaga, was also on his way to work only five minutes behind his wife Patricia when he noticed the accident. Without hesitation, and without knowing the accident was involved with his wife, Officer Malaga jumped into action with the Nesconset Fire Department, stopping only when he realized the tragedy had taken Patricia's life from him. Officer Espinosa embodied the very best of this country and the very best of law enforcement. She came to the United States from Quito, Ecuador, at the age of 21, with a dream of building a better life through hard work, determination, and service to others. She learned English, pursued a career in public service, and ultimately achieved her dream of becoming a Nassau County police officer in 2017. She proudly served the residents of Nassau County in the Fifth Precinct, in Elmont, and served with compassion, professionalism, and heart. She was deeply involved in her community, mentoring young people, helping train fellow officers, and building relationships that strengthened trust between law enforcement and the people they serve. Those who knew Officer Espinosa described her as strong, kind, compassionate and somebody whose smile could light up a room. From the stories that were told to me, it was like I knew Patricia for years. She was a very, very special woman. She was not only respected by her fellow officers and her loved ones, but by her community. In short, she was the embodiment of the American dream, and she was an inspiration to everyone she connected with. Her tragic passing on January 31st is a heartbreaking loss to Nassau County, for law enforcement across New York, and for all of our community and state -- and most importantly, her family. She leaves behind her husband Francisco; their beautiful two-year-old daughter Mia, that I met; and so many loved ones who will forever carry her memory in their hearts. As we discuss this resolution today, let us remember that behind every badge is a human being, someone who cares, somebody who chose a life of sacrifice and service so others could feel safe. Officer Patricia Espinosa lived a life of purpose, courage, and dedication to others. Her legacy will never be forgotten. I ask my colleagues today to join me in honoring her memory, praying for her family, and thanking all the men and women in law enforcement who continue to put themselves in harm's way every single day to protect us. May Officer Patricia Espinosa rest in eternal peace. Thank you, Madam President.

Thank you, Madam President. And I want to thank my colleague Senator Mattera for bringing this resolution to the floor. Just this past weekend in any district we had the Elmont/Belmont Parade in honor of Paul Sapienza, and at that parade they made the Grand Marshal the family of Patricia Espinosa. So I got to meet her parents, her sister, her two brothers, and her beautiful daughter Mia and her husband. And it was exceptionally heartfelt that her parents are now really taking care of her daughter so much because she's missing her mom. And to see the life that this family has -- her two brothers are police officers, her sister is a social worker. And as Senator Mattera said, they came to the United States for a better life. It certainly is a tragedy that Patricia is no longer with us. Her post was right in the Home Depot parking lot of Home Depot, right on Hempstead Turnpike in the heart of my district. And her partner, Angelica Caggiano, spoke so heartfelt about all the work they did and how they became best friends and served the Elmont community in such a beautiful way, always being there for those who needed them. So I appreciate this resolution. I thank you, Senator, for making sure that we remember the family that lost her so tragically as she was heading to work. And I too pray for their family because her parents are truly heartbroken over the loss of their beautiful daughter. Thank you, Madam President. I proudly vote aye.

Thank you, Madam President. I too rise to support the resolution mourning the passing of Patricia Espinosa, honoring her service to the state and to the residents of Nassau County. I just want to underline a fact that shouldn't be lost on anyone, that Patricia Espinosa would be here today but for someone driving drunk who got into a head-on collision and took her life. And there is something we can do about it. There is something we can do about it right here in the chamber as we mourn her passing and we honor her service and we reflect on not only her service, but on her family and the sacrifice and loss that that means for her husband, her family, her children. There is something we can do when we talk about strengthening drunk driving laws, drugged driving laws, strengthening restrictions on people who are found and convicted while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, taking away those licenses, preventing them from driving, keeping them off the streets, understanding that yes, they need treatment, they need help, and we're there for that -- and this state has every resource there for them. But we have to commit ourselves to making sure that when people break the law when it comes to drunk/drugged driving, impaired driving, it is our responsibility to make sure that we take them off the road. Because the end result of policies that sometimes are a bit too lenient, Madam President, is loss of life and sacrifice. I want to thank Senator Mattera for this resolution, and I vote aye. Thank you.

Okay, Madam President. Now we're going to break for a couple of things. First of all, there will be an immediate meeting of the Investigations and Finance committees jointly in Room 124.

The Majority will then have conference at 5:30, and then we will reconvene session at 7:00 p.m. Please recognize Senator Lanza for an announcement.

Thank you, Senator Gianaris. Madam President, the Republican Conference will meet at 5:45 in Room 315 of the Capitol Building.

The Senate will stand at ease until 7:00 p.m. (Whereupon, the Senate stood at ease at 5:22 p.m.) (Whereupon, the Senate reconvened at 7:23 p.m.)

Good evening, Madam President. Let's take up supplemental active list, please.

Senator Martinez moves to discharge, from the Committee on Local Government, Assembly Bill Number 10562 and substitute it for the identical Senate Bill 9325, Third Reading Calendar 667. Senator May moves to discharge, from the Committee on Internet and Technology, Assembly Bill Number 8713B and substitute it for the identical Senate Bill 9097A, Third Reading Calendar 685. Senator Martinez moves to discharge, from the Committee on Rules, Assembly Bill Number 10885B and substitute it for the identical Senate Bill 9502A, Third Reading Calendar 766. Senator Cooney moves to discharge, from the Committee on Transportation, Assembly Bill Number 5306 and substitute it for the identical Senate Bill 9226, Third Reading Calendar 783. Senator Bailey moves to discharge, from the Committee on Insurance, Assembly Bill Number 6465 and substitute it for the identical Senate Bill 5318, Third Reading Calendar 1125. Senator Bailey moves to discharge, from the Committee on Insurance, Assembly Bill Number 11164 and substitute it for the identical Senate Bill 10225, Third Reading Calendar 1129. Senator Liu moves to discharge, from the Committee on Education, Assembly Bill Number 10079A and substitute it for the identical Senate Bill 6355A, Third Reading Calendar 1172. Senator Scarcella-Spanton moves to discharge, from the Committee on Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks and Recreation, Assembly Bill Number 10497 and substitute it for the identical Senate Bill 9389, Third Reading Calendar 1221.

Calendar Number 328, Senate Print 3819B, by Senator Rivera, an act to amend the Executive Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 636, voting in the negative are Senators Borrello, Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Chan, Gallivan, Griffo, Martins, Mattera, Murray, O'Mara, Rhoads, Tedisco, Walczyk, Weber and Weik. Ayes, 47. Nays, 14.

Calendar Number 667, Assembly Bill Number 10562, by Assemblymember Stern, an act to amend the Real Property Tax Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect on the first of January.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar 668, voting in the negative are Senators O'Mara and Skoufis. Ayes, 59. Nays, 2.

Calendar Number 685, Assembly Bill Number 8713B, by Assemblymember Carroll, an act to amend the General Business Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 783, Assembly Bill Number 5306, by Assemblymember Reyes, an act to amend the Vehicle and Traffic Law.

Section 3. This act shall take effect on the 60th day after it shall have become a law.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1129, Assembly Bill Number 11164, by Assemblymember Hunter, an act to amend the Insurance Law.

Section 3. This act shall take effect on the 180th day after it shall have become a law.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

In relation to Calendar Number 1133, voting in the negative are Senators Addabbo, Ashby, Borrello, Chan, Comrie, Gallivan, Griffo, Helming, Lanza, Martinez, Mattera, Oberacker, O'Mara, Ortt, Palumbo, Stec, Sutton, Tedisco, Walczyk, Weber and Weik. Ayes, 40. Nays, 21.

Calendar Number 1172, Assembly Bill Number 10079A, by Assemblymember Gibbs, an act to amend the Education Law.

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1182, Senate Print 6729A, by Senator Jackson, an act to amend the Real Property Law.

Section 2. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Lay it aside.

Calendar Number 1221, Assembly Bill Number 10497, by Assemblymember Fall, an act to amend the Navigation Law.

Section 3. This act shall take effect immediately.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Read the last section.

Call the roll. (The Secretary called the roll.)

Ayes, 61.

Calendar Number 1294, Senate Print 4500B, by Senator Fahy, an act to amend the General Business Law.

Section 7. This act shall take effect on the 180th day after it shall have become a law.

Senator Fahy to explain her vote.

Senator Fahy to be recorded in the affirmative. Announce the results.

The bill is passed. Oh. Senator Ashby to explain his vote as well.

Senator Ashby to be recorded in the affirmative. Announce the results.

The bill is passed.

Lay it aside.

Calendar Number 1305, Senate Print 6621, by Senator Harckham, an act to amend the Environmental Conservation Law.

Section 3. This act shall take effect on the 60th day after it shall have become a law.

Announce the results.

The bill is passed. Senator Gianaris, that completes the reading of the supplemental calendar.

The Secretary will ring the bell. The Secretary will read.

Senator Borrello, why do you rise?

Senator Gianaris?

Oh, Senator Liu. Do you yield?

The Senator yields.

I don't know the exact size, Madam President. But it is a significant business in New York, and not many other places have it.

Do you continue to yield?

The Senator yields.

Madam President, I'm not convinced that passing this bill will move the business to places in the United States outside New York, given that it would be New York laws that apply. And when the good Senator talks about bond issuance, the issuers of these bonds have the prerogative to decide under which laws they want to issue their bonds. And if they issue them under New York laws, then this bill would apply.

Do you continue to yield?

The Senator yields.

Well, that would be true only if a sovereign nation decided to go to Texas and issue debt under the laws of the State of Texas. Which if we pass this, they would be even further less likely to do, because even a sovereign nation would like to have the protections of the hundred-years doctrine called champerty.

Do you continue to yield?

The Senator yields.

Madam President, the bill directly seeks to restore the doctrine of champerty and its protections for debtors against creditors, particularly those who tend to be predatory.

Do you continue to yield?

The Senator yields.

Madam President, this bill seeks to remove a carveout that was legislated about 20 years ago, the circumstances of which I personally find questionable. It simply seeks to remove the carveout that specifically only refers to sovereign debt from the protections of this hundreds-of-years-old champerty doctrine. So we're simply restoring -- we're simply removing the sovereign debt carveout which was enacted about 20 years ago. Prior to that, when that bill was enacted, sovereign debt was protected.

Do you continue to yield?

The Senator yields.

Madam President, sovereign debt -- sovereign debt becomes the target of investors such as vulture funds, certain kinds of investment funds that are investing in this debt not expecting that that investment would increase in value, but simply looking to seek litigation and court settlement or court judgments in order to provide that profit. The large nations that the good Senator is referring to, they generally don't fall into that kind of category. It's generally the smaller nations around the world that have distressed economies and therefore are not able to repay their debts.

Do you continue to yield?

The Senator yields.

Can you repeat that, Senator?

Well, Madam President, the good Senator is trying to imply that somehow the markets will correct for that by demanding a higher rate of interest from these nations that were not able to repay their debt according to those strict terms. But I would remind everyone, Madam President, that the bond markets actually have a correcting mechanism. And oftentimes that is worked out through the restructuring of debt, whether it be sovereign, whether it be corporate, sometimes personal. So there is a mechanism for working this debt out without having to carve out sovereign debt and sovereign debt only from the protections of champerty.

Senator Borrello on the bill.

Senator Martins, why do you rise?

Senator Martins on the bill.

Senator Liu, do you yield?

I apologize, Senator Liu, Madam President. I just wish that the sponsor were here with us, because we've had these discussions with Senator Krueger in the past. And certainly I think that I would have enjoyed very much to have this discussion with her. But I would ask Senator Liu if he would yield as well.

He yields.

Well, okay, yeah, a few things. You just talked about how these are really wealthy entities even if they are a small country. But they would have to subject themselves to the choice that their bank makes in terms of the state or the set of laws that their debt would be issued under? I don't think so. I think a sovereign nation would actually be able to choose the jurisdiction and the set of laws that their debt would be issued under. Secondly, you know, we're talking about distressed debt. Right? So it's not like a country is entering a loan, borrowing money with the intent of not paying it back. Everybody who borrows money and finds a lender that is willing to lend them money, they expect to pay it back and the lenders expect to be paid back. It is only afterwards, where certain circumstances happen that makes that loan distressed, that it becomes a topic of our discussion here. And so what we're trying to do is simply apply the doctrine of champerty, a well-established doctrine, to say that that applies to all debt, and that it should not be specifically carved out under New York State law when it applies to sovereign debt. And I think the good Senator has tried to argue that this somehow disrupts the bond markets because it may -- you know, it casts into doubt any debt that might -- where the debtor might simply decide "I don't want to pay it back." And then the creditor has no recourse. I don't think that's the case here. The case is -- I think what's happening here is that by removing this carveout -- which, again, I find the origins to be questionable -- by removing this carveout, we actually restore the normal mechanisms of the capital markets. And that these nations that are distressed when it comes to repaying their loans have the ability to renegotiate the terms. Which is what happens in corporate loans and in personal loans. Not my kind of personal loans, because I'm not up there. But, I don't know, maybe the Senator and his friends that have lots of pied-à-terres around here. (Laughter.)

Do you continue to yield?

The Senator yields.

That's correct, Madam President.

Do you continue to yield?

The Senator yields.

Well, that's normally the case except when it comes to a distressed loan. Or a circumstance where the debtor is simply unable to repay. And that is what the doctrine of champerty always applied to. But for some strange reason, sovereign debt and only sovereign debt was carved out from that protection about 20 years ago. What this bill does is simply remove that carveout so that the principle of champerty applies to all loans.

Do you continue to yield?

Senator Liu yields.

Madam President, yes, that's distressed debt. You know, borrowers and debtors don't repudiate debt without knowing the consequences. And there have been times, even in modern history, where countries have decided they don't want to pay the debt. And then they have to suffer the consequences for generations to come. So this idea that a country would simply say, We have lots of money but we're not going to repay the debt, that doesn't happen in real life. What does happen, though, is a country who is truly distressed, they can't repay the loans, but through litigation -- simply through litigation, not through construction of value or some kind of value-added mechanism that is increasing the value of the investment -- through our courts and our courts only, only because of that carveout that happened 20 years ago, these what I would consider predators are able to get, you know, 20 times the value of the distressed debt that they or their partners purchased for.

Do you continue to yield?

The Senator yields.

So, Madam President, I mean, the example that I cited was a case where Paul Singer -- you may know the name -- was able to recoup $58 million on a bond that -- or debt that he and whatever partners he may have had purchased for $11 million. I apologize, I recall that to be $3 million. But he purchased for $11 million and was able to, simply through litigation, get back $58 million. Litigation, once again, that was allowed only because of this carveout from the protections of champerty that was enacted 20 years ago, which we're trying to reverse.

Do you continue to yield?

The Senator is happy to yield.

Banks, large financial institutions, they make loans that they take losses on every single day. That's made up for by the overall interest rate that they charge all of their borrowers. They expect a certain proportion of defaults to occur. So if that's what happens, that's what happens. But that is taken care of in the capital markets. We actually interfere with the proper and orderly function of the capital markets by giving this specific carveout. And it -- again, not only is it arbitrarily removing this particular type of debt from the protections of champerty, but it also disrupts how the capital markets, specifically the bond markets, are supposed to operate, so that our constituents -- pension members, people who -- some of us who invest in IRAs -- so that that normal and regular flow and operation of the capital markets is not disturbed by this carveout that we're trying to negate.