MONDAY, MAY 20, 2024 2:56 P.M.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The House will come

to order.

In the absence of clergy, let us all pause for a moment

of silence.

(Whereupon, a moment of silence was observed.)

Visitors are invited to join the members in the Pledge

of Allegiance.

(Whereupon, Acting Speaker Aubry led visitors and

members in the Pledge of Allegiance.)

A quorum being present, the Clerk will read the

Journal of Sunday, May the 19th.

Mrs. Peoples-Stokes.

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

MRS. PEOPLES-STOKES: Mr. Speaker, I move to

dispense with the further reading of the Journal of Sunday, May the

19th, and that the same stands approved.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Without objection, so

ordered.

Mrs. Peoples-Stokes.

MRS. PEOPLES-STOKES: Thank you so much, sir.

To our colleagues that are in the Chamber, as well as the multiple

guests that are here, I'd like to start off our day with a quote, and as

soon as I put my hand on it I'll share it -- one second.

(Pause)

Since some things on the agenda have changed, I'll

move the direction of where the quote comes from as well, so that we

can move right along, Mr. Speaker. Colleagues do have on their desk

a main Calendar, and we'll be calling for the following committees to

meet off the floor: Ways and Means, and Rules. These committees

are going to produce an A-Calendar, of which we will take up today.

After you have done any introductions or housekeeping, we're going

to take up the following bills on consent, Calendar No. 226 by Ms.

Hyndman, and Calendar No. 453 by Ms. Levenberg. We will then

continue our consent from the main Calendar where we left off last

week, we will be beginning with Rules Report No. 56. There

probably will be a need for additional floor activity, I will advise at

that point; however, we will definitely be taking up the resolutions on

our Calendar at the end of today's floor work.

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

So Mr. Speaker, that's a general outline of where

we're going. If you have introductions or housekeeping, now would

be a perfect time. Thank you, sir.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Thank you, Mrs.

Peoples-Stokes.

On a motion by Mr. Dinowitz, page 10, Calendar No.

26, Bill No. A00779-B, the amendments are received and adopted.

On a motion by Mr. Vanel, page 29, Calendar No.

364, Bill No. A00938, amendments are received and adopted.

On a motion by Ms. Paulin, page 32, Calendar No.

409, Bill No. A07467, the amendments are received and adopted.

On a motion by Mr. McDonald, page 32, Calendar

No. 416, Bill No. A09621, amendments are received and adopted.

Mrs. Peoples-Stokes.

MRS. PEOPLES-STOKES: Mr. Speaker, if you

would please call the Ways and Means Committee to the Speaker's

Conference Room immediately.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Ways and Means,

Speaker's Conference Room immediately, please.

For an introduction, Mrs. Peoples-Stokes.

MRS. PEOPLES-STOKES: Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. I have the honor and the pleasure of introducing a number of

young people that are in our Chambers with us today, perhaps they

could all rise at this moment. These young people have been put

together and organized and brought here by the League of Women

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

Voters, it's their annual student shadow day in Albany. They should

be standing all over the Chambers, and yes they are, Mr. Speaker, a

fine group of young people.

As you know, the League of Women Voters have

been doing this for 24 years, and the work that they do with these

young people, they're here for four days and surprisingly, but not

surprisingly because they get this experience with us today, multiple

alumni of the program have started careers in either the Assembly, in

the Senate, and/or the Executive offices in our great government. So

if you will welcome these fine young people from all over the State of

New York representing both the Democratic side of the aisle as well

as the Republican side of the aisle. With a broad vision they're

looking to learn, and I hope that we have a lot to share with them

about all the great and wonderful things we do here in State

government, as well as for -- in our -- within our districts. Thank you,

Mr. Speaker.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Certainly. On behalf

of Mrs. Peoples-Stokes, the Speaker and all the members, we

welcome you here to the New York State Assembly. We extend to

you the privileges of the floor. We hope that all of you have had

interesting experiences here today, and we thank the League of

Women Voters for continually organizing this. We hope it opens up

avenues for all of you not only just to have the basic understanding of

how the government works here in Albany, but also maybe some

aspirations for you to one day take one of these seats from your

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

community. Thank you so very much, and we wish you well in your

future. Thank you.

(Applause)

ACTING SPEAKER ZACCARO: Mr. Kim for an

introduction.

MR. KIM: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today it is an

absolute pleasure for me to honor the Overclock Middle School and

High School Robotics Team that are led by the KG Computech

President Mr. Goy Gium Sang (phonetic) and Coach Kevin Sang

(phonetic). There are 25 students who have joined us. They are led

by Captain Angela Lee (phonetic), and Vice Captain Bryce Sow

(phonetic). The robotics team -- Overclock Robotics Middle School

and High School teams represented the State of New York at the

Robotic World Competition in Dallas on April 25th. This team won

the world divisional finalist award and were divisional runners-up,

beating out nearly 100 teams from around the world. They were also

awarded the prestigious design award, which recognizes the team with

the most organized and professional approach to the engineering and

design process. The high school teams also qualified for the world

championships of winning the Amaze and Think Award for New York

State Championships. As we honor these young, talented students

from the robotics team, we're also celebrating the importance of

design work in our society. As these young leaders are learning about

designing a robot from scratch and working as a team to model,

construct, assemble and take risks, they're also exposed to a key lesson

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

at such young ages, which is life is about designing and redesigning

for solutions and outcomes till you get it right. It's not always about

getting to perfection on the first try, but always learning from setbacks

and failures to learn, grow, and improve. In many ways, our work as

policymakers also involves designing solutions. Over the course of

12 years in this Chamber, I've also realized that the best lawmakers

are those who are willing to design, reset, redesign solutions until we

achieve the policy outcomes you want. I hope the students today can

also connect these dots for themselves, and also continue to learn and

design solutions for a better society for all. Please extend the

privileges of the floor to the students. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

ACTING SPEAKER ZACCARO: On behalf of Mr.

Kim, the Speaker and all the members, we welcome you today to this

Chamber. We extend to you the privileges of the floor and we hope

that you will enjoy today's proceedings. We welcome you today. We

are excited to see all the work that you've contributed. We hope that

all that you've learned you will continue to take that on in the life that

you will lead after robotics and we welcome you today. We ask that

you will join us here in the future, and we look forward to that day to

come. Thank you so much for joining us.

(Applause)

Mr. Palmesano for an introduction.

MR. PALMESANO: Thank you, Mr. Speaker and

my colleagues. I rise for an introduction for a very special young lady,

Peyton Mullin, a freshman at Dundee High School. Peyton earlier this

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

year on January 26th of 2024, won the New York State Public High

School Athletic Association Girls Wrestling Invitational State

Championship at the SRC Arena and Event Center in Syracuse, New

York. Peyton had began her wrestling career at the age of four, and

when she entered the State wrestling championship this -- earlier this

year, she came in as the 9th seed and ultimately defended the

defending State champion from previous year to capture the title.

Peyton's first State championship highlights an outstanding wrestling

career that already features numerous accomplishments, including 142

total career wins, and an undefeated 14-0 record in the 235-pound

weight class. Peyton is also the two-time New York Wrestling

Association for Youth State Champion and a Girls (inaudible) Finger

Lakes Champion, and in 8th grade she won the Sectional

Championship. Also in May of this year, Peyton placed first in the

Freestyle Fargo Nationals Qualifiers and will travel to North Dakota

in July to participate in the Fargo Jr. National Championships. She

also participates in track and field and football. I have a feeling we're

going to be seeing her back here in the future. She is also joined --

she's an honor roll student and Peyton is joined here today by her

mom, Leslie Mullin; her dad, DJ Mullin; her grandfather, Mike

Mullin; and grandmother, Sharon Schuyler.

Mr. Speaker, could you please extend the cordialities

and congratulations to this freshman New York State Champion. I

think we are going to see more bigger and better things from her in the

future. Could you please extend the cordialities and congratulations to

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

her, to Peyton. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

ACTING SPEAKER ZACCARO: On behalf of Mr.

Palmesano, the Speaker and all the members, Peyton, we welcome

you. We congratulate you on all of your accomplishments. We look

forward to all that you will do in the future as a freshman in this sport.

We welcome your family here today. We extend to you the privileges

of the floor. We hope you will enjoy today's proceedings and

welcome you once again. Thank you for joining us.

(Applause)

Ms. Shimsky for the purpose of an introduction.

MS. SHIMSKY: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to

introduce today Stephanie Marquesano, the Founder and President of

the Harris Project. Ms. Marquesano turned the grief from the loss of

her son from a drug overdose into an organization that has gone out

and provided information and increased public awareness about

co-occurring disorders, which is a combination of mental health issues

combined with substance abuse. Ms. Marquesano's organization has

helped foster informational seminars and training to school students,

educational institutions, local governments and mental health

professionals alike. Her work has saved countless lives, and she's only

getting started.

So Mr. Speaker, I would ask you to welcome Ms.

Marquesano to the floor, extend to her all the courtesies of the House.

ACTING SPEAKER ZACCARO: Certainly. On

behalf of Ms. Shimsky and all the members, we welcome you to the

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

New York State Assembly. We are so gracious to be able to find

someone like you that does such an important work. We hope that we

can continue to partner with you and all of the work that you do on the

awareness that you bring on such an important issue. We extend to

you the privileges of the floor today, and we welcome you and we

hope to invite you back in the very near future. Thank you so much

for joining us.

(Applause)

Ms. Gunther for the purpose of an introduction.

MRS. GUNTHER: Thank you very much. Today,

teens and board members of the Maya Gold Foundation are visiting

us. The non-profit based in the Hudson Valley was started in late

2015 after the heartbreaking death of Maya Gold, a 15-year-old

sophomore from New Paltz High School who tragically took her life.

The organization's mission is to empower youth to accept -- to access

their inner wisdom and realize their dreams. All of their discussions

and decisions are made with teens at the table. The nature of their

work is developing programs addressing the needs of teens with a

focus on mental health needs. In addition to work done in the Hudson

Valley, they work to reduce human trafficking in Nepal. They share

that it is an honor for them to be in the Assembly today. Today with

me I have Elise Gold, an old friend of mine, who is the cofounder of

this organization; Marni Pasch, also a Board Member; and Mala

Hoffman. We also have with us four wonderful girls: Karrington,

Audrey, Melanie and Dylan. Can you please offer them all the

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

cordialities of the House and welcome them to the New York State

Assembly.

ACTING SPEAKER ZACCARO: Certainly. On

behalf of Ms. Gunther, the Speaker and all the members, we welcome

you today. The youth are our future, and we thank you so much for

the work that you do that is so critically important. We wish you all

the best in your endeavors. We welcome you today to the floor. We

extend to you the privileges of this House and we hope that you will

enjoy these proceedings today. Thank you so much for joining us.

(Applause)

Mr. Barclay for the purpose of an introduction.

MR. BARCLAY: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'm very

honored to have a group from my hometown of Pulaski here. We

have the Pulaski Middle and High School Student Government with

us today. They're here to obviously learn about state government, and

I'm happy to say they're joined by teacher chaperones Jill Truax,

Margaret Cacchione, Ken Isgar, and Stephanie Allen. And they've

just done a tour of the Capitol and they're able to hear a little bit about

state government from many of our members here in the Assembly.

So Mr. Speaker, would you please give them the

courtesies of the House and welcome them to Albany. Thank you.

ACTING SPEAKER ZACCARO: Certainly. On

behalf of Member Barclay, the Speaker and all the members, we

welcome you today to the New York State Assembly. We hope that

you've enjoyed your visit. We hope that you've learned all that there

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

is to learn today, and all the wonders that there is still yet to be seen.

We ask and we extend to you the privileges of the floor today. We

hope you enjoy today's proceedings. We look forward to welcoming

you back in the future, and we thank you for joining us.

(Applause)

Mr. Gandolfo for the purpose of an introduction.

MR. GANDOLFO: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On

behalf of the Long Island Delegation and the New York Conference of

Italian-American Legislators, it is my honor to introduce some

esteemed guests we have up here as we celebrate Italian-American

Heritage Day. We have joining us from Long Island members of the

Italian-American Action Committee, Bob Fonti who runs that

Committee. They do a lot of work advocating for Italian-American

issues and making sure that we have good, positive representation in

the public sphere. He is joined by Joseph Scelsa (phonetic), Anthony

Badano (phonetic), John Rapreste (phonetic) and Anthony

Constantinople. And as I mentioned, we are celebrating

Italian-American Heritage Day, and as part of that tradition each year,

the Italian-American legislators will celebrate and honor distinguished

individuals who positively portray Italian-American heritage in our

State.

So joined with us today we have the -- we have

Johnny Farina, who wrote the hit song, Sleepwalk, which was released

in 1959 and has been covered by numerous artists ever since. If you

heard the song, I'm sure you would recognize it, it's a beautiful piece

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

of music. Also joining us is Bobby Prevette, renowned composer,

performer who has collaborated with world renowned artists and still

continues to make beautiful music today. And finally last but not

least, a constituent from Sayville, New York, Gregg Giannotti who

many of you, if you're a sports fan might know as Gio from the hit

morning show, Boomer and Gio. Gio is an upstanding member of our

community back home and a great positive example of

Italian-American success here in New York. He was first hired by

WFAN as an intern in 2005, and he's now co-hosting Boomer and

Gio, which is the number one sports talk radio show in New York. He

also uses his platform to advocate for positive charitable causes such

as cystic fibrosis research and awareness, as well as he's helped raise

money locally for the Michael P. Murphy Navy Seal Museum.

So we're honored to have them here today. They are

upstanding Italian-American individuals. We have named them our

Italian-Americans of the Year, so would you please welcome all of

our visitors and extend to them the cordialities of the House.

ACTING SPEAKER ZACCARO: Certainly. On

behalf of Mr. Gandolfo, the Speaker and all the members, we

welcome you today to the New York State Assembly. We thank you

for your immense contribution to the Italian-American community

and all that you do. We extend to you the privileges of the House and

we hope that you would enjoy today's proceedings. Thank you so

much for joining us.

(Applause)

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

Mrs. Peoples-Stokes for the purpose of an

introduction.

MRS. PEOPLES-STOKES: Thank you, Mr.

Speaker, for the purpose and I consider an honor to introduce our

former colleague, Mr. DenDekker - where is he? As you know, Mr.

Speaker, well, Mr. DenDekker spent an enormous amount of time

with us here on the floor as a member, and while doing so, he spent

also an enormous amount of time both helping to organize not only

Italian-American festivities that happen, but he also worked with the

Irish-American festivities. So I do miss him and it's always great

when he has an opportunity to come back and visit with us. So if you

would please welcome our former colleague, Mr. DenDekker, to our

Chambers, and give him obviously the cordialities of the floor which

he always has as a member anyway. Thank you, sir.

ACTING SPEAKER ZACCARO: Certainly. On

behalf of Mrs. Peoples-Stokes, the Speaker and all the members, we

welcome you back, Mr. DenDekker to the Chamber. As it is said as

always, once a member, always a member. We hope that you have

enjoyed your visit back to the State Capitol today. We extend to you

the privileges of the floor, and we hope that you will enjoy today's

proceedings. Thank you so much for visiting us once again.

(Applause)

Mrs. Peoples-Stokes for the purpose of an

announcement.

MRS. PEOPLES-STOKES: Mr. Speaker, would you

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

please call the Rules Committee to the Speaker's Conference Room

immediately.

ACTING SPEAKER ZACCARO: Rules Committee

to the Speaker's Conference Room immediately.

Mr. Goodell for the purposes of an introduction.

MR. GOODELL: Thank you, sir. It is my great

pleasure to introduce some guests from my home community. Of

course, I've put all my introductory notes somewhere where I can't

find them. With us is the home schooling family who is coming up

here, you can see them over to my left. This is the Overbeck Family.

They have twins, I think 9-year-old twins, and a 7-year-old - thank

you. It's Tim Overbeck, and I'm really under a lot of pressure to

introduce Tim because he is a professor at SUNY Fredonia

specializing in speech pathology, so I'm trying to be very careful about

how I introduce him. He's here with his wife, Mary Eimers and we

have Brandon, Sienna, and Cameron. And they drove up last night,

they're checking out how we perform here up in the Assembly.

They're visiting from Jamestown, and if you would welcome them,

that'd be great. I would point out that Tim is a great Phillies fan,

which made him an instant success in my office since my

chief-of-staff's son is a pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies. He's a

veteran, and also very active in our community. So if you would

welcome on my behalf, Tim Overbeck and his family, Mary Eimers,

Brandon, Sienna, and Cameron to our Chambers, I would appreciate

it. Thank you, sir.

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

ACTING SPEAKER ZACCARO: On behalf of Mr.

Goodell, the Speaker and all the members, we welcome you and your

lovely family today to the New York State Assembly. We extend to

you the privileges of the floor, and we hope that you will enjoy today's

proceedings and we look forward to welcoming you back in the

future. Thank you so much for joining us.

(Applause)

Ms. Shimsky for the purposes of an introduction.

MS. SHIMSKY: Which one?

(Pause)

I -- I rise to introduce Martin Rutyna. He is the

Mayor of the Village of Sleepy Hollow. The village is celebrating its

150th birthday this year. The village under Mayor Rutyna's leadership

has worked with residents to plan a year of events to celebrate the

vibrant, thriving, and inclusive community that is the Village of

Sleepy Hollow.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you to welcome Mayor Rutyna

and extend to him all the courtesies of the floor.

ACTING SPEAKER ZACCARO: On behalf of Ms.

Shimsky, the Speaker and all of the members, we welcome you today

to the New York State Assembly. We hope that you have enjoyed our

proceedings so far. We extend to you the privileges of the floor, and

we hope to welcome you back in the very near future. Thank you so

much for joining us.

(Applause)

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

Mr. Morinello for the purposes of an introduction.

MR. MORINELLO: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am

privileged to introduce Mr. Steve Broderick to this Body. Steve is the

Town of Lewiston Supervisor. But Steve is also a retired deputy

sheriff from the Niagara County Sheriff's Department. And at

retirement, he chose rather than to fade off into the sunset, rather than

golf every day, that he would continue with his service to his

community. I would ask that the hospitality of the floor be extended

to Mr. Broderick. Thank you.

ACTING SPEAKER ZACCARO: On behalf of Mr.

Morinello, the Speaker and all the members, we welcome you today to

the New York State Assembly. We extend to you the privileges of the

floor. We hope that you will enjoy today's proceeding and we look

forward to welcoming you back in the future. Thank you so much for

joining us.

(Applause)

Page 24, Calendar No. 226, the Clerk will read.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A05019-A, Calendar

No. 226, Hyndman, Gibbs, Gunther, Hunter, Santabarbara, Woerner,

Colton, Zinerman, Williams, Simon, Tapia, Bendett, Gallahan,

Jackson, Sayegh, Jean-Pierre. An act to amend the Banking Law, in

relation to prohibiting certain financial institutions from charging a fee

for periodic paper statements.

ACTING SPEAKER ZACCARO: Read the last

section.

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect on the 180th

day.

ACTING SPEAKER ZACCARO: The Clerk will

record the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

Page 35, Calendar No. 453, the Clerk will read.

THE CLERK: Senate No. S06162, Calendar No.

453, Senator May (Levenberg, Burdick--A06845). An act to amend

the Executive Law, in relation to ensuring that color vision

requirements for appointment of police officers are tailored to only

eliminate individuals with extreme color vision deficiencies from

eligibility.

ACTING SPEAKER ZACCARO: Read the last

section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect immediately.

ACTING SPEAKER ZACCARO: The Clerk will

record the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Ms. Levenberg to explain her vote.

MS. LEVENBERG: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise

to explain my vote. This -- the idea for this bill came to me from --

actually from an intern up in Albany who once dreamed of becoming

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

a police officer to give back to his community, but discovered that his

mild color vision deficiency made him ineligible. With approximately

1 million New Yorkers affected by some form of color vision

deficiency, this legislation will open countless opportunities for

hopeful individuals to serve their communities. Passing this bill today

will be a significant step towards inclusivity and equal opportunity on

our State's law enforcement recruitment process. We've received so

much support from chiefs of police, from State Troopers, and from

ophthalmological associations because there are different levels of

color vision and this bill will allow a much more tailored approach to

making that determination. And we know that it's harder than ever to

recruit our police officers today, so this will also make that process

easier. Happy to be able to get this passed the week after National

Police Week. And I will be voting in the affirmative. Thank you.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Ms. Levenberg in the

affirmative.

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

Page 5, Rules Report No. 56, the Clerk will read.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A09466, Rules Report

No. 56, Pretlow. An act to amend the Local Finance Law, in relation

to bonds and notes of the City of Yonkers.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Home Rule message

is at the desk.

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

Read the last section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect immediately.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The Clerk will record

the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Mr. Goodell.

MR. GOODELL: Thank you, sir. This is a fast vote

because it's a local law, but in the past it has received considerable

opposition. Last year we had 32 no-votes on floor of the Assembly.

And the reason why is because it eliminates the requirement that bond

issuances in the City of Yonkers go through a competitive bid process,

which is the same process that almost every other municipality goes

through. Yonkers was authorized to do a private sale 17 years ago

when they had a fiscal crisis. They are no longer in fiscal crisis. The

bond rating for the City of Yonkers is currently A+. So once you get

an A+ bond rating, maybe it's time that you go back and have an open

competitive bid to make sure that anyone who wants to bid on those

bonds has a fair and equal opportunity to bid, to make sure that you're

getting the best price by getting the best competition, to avoid

favoritism and the possibility of corruption. Because this bill is no

longer needed, I will be voting against it and I recommend my

colleagues do the same. Thank you, sir.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Mr. Goodell in the

negative.

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A09522, Rules Report

No. 57, Solages. An act to amend the Social Services Law, in relation

to automated identification of OTDA assistance program participants.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Read the last section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect immediately.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The Clerk will record

the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A09533-A, Rules

Report No. 58, Solages. An act authorizing the County of Nassau

Assessor to accept an application for a real property tax exemption

from the Lighthouse International Christian Gathering.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Read the last section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect immediately.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The Clerk will record

the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A09549, Rules Report

No. 59, Pheffer Amato. An act to amend Chapter 100 of the Laws of

2013, relating to authorizing the reinstatement of prior approved work

permits and waiving the requirements of Section 35 and subdivision 2

of Section 36 of the General City Law as such provisions relate to

rebuilding and repairing homes devastated by Hurricane Sandy in the

City of New York, in relation to the effectiveness thereof.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Read the last section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect immediately.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The Clerk will record

the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Ms. Walsh to explain her vote.

MS. WALSH: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker;

good afternoon to my colleagues. So I will be supporting this bill

which extends for another five years any building permits and waiver

of hearings that are related to Superstorm Sandy. As we all know,

Superstorm Sandy was in 2012, that was 12 years ago. I don't know

who would still be rebuilding their house after that many years, but --

but I will -- I will support this latest extension, but I do kind of hope

that this will be the last one. So I'll be in the affirmative, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you very much.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Ms. Walsh in the

affirmative.

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A09550-A, Rules

Report No. 60, Pretlow. An act to amend the Tax Law, in relation to

increasing the occupancy tax rate authorized in the City of Yonkers;

and to amend Chapter 62 of the Laws of 2015 amending the Tax Law

relating to the imposition of an occupancy tax in the City of Yonkers,

in relation to extending the effectiveness thereof.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The bill is laid aside.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A09839-A, Rules

Report No. 61, Sillitti. An act in relation to authorizing the County of

Nassau Assessor to accept an application for a real property tax

exemption from St. Gregorios Malankara Orthodox Church Queens,

Inc.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Read the last section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect immediately.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The Clerk will record

the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A10070, Rules Report

No. 62, Burdick. An act to amend Chapter 620 of the Laws of 1938

incorporating the Volunteer and Exempt Firemen's Benevolent

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

Association of Millwood, New York, and providing for its powers and

duties, and providing for the payment to such corporation of a share of

the foreign fire insurance premium taxes, in relation to the purposes

and duties of such association and making certain technical

amendments thereto.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Read the last section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect immediately.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The Clerk will record

the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A10071, Rules Report

No. 63, Sillitti. An act to amend the Nassau County Civil Divisions

Act, in relation to the name and the funds of the corporation.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Read the last section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect immediately.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The Clerk will record

the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

Mrs. Peoples-Stokes.

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

MRS. PEOPLES-STOKES: Mr. Speaker, members

have on their desk an A-Calendar and I'd like to now move to advance

that A-Calendar.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: On Mrs.

Peoples-Stokes' motion, the A-Calendar is advanced.

Page 3, A-Calendar, Rules Report No. 64, the Clerk

will read.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A00718, Rules Report

No. 64, Dinowitz, Cook, Benedetto, Colton. An act in relation to

directing the division of housing and community renewal to study

non-rental fees charged by landlords.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The bill is laid aside.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A01577-A, Rules

Report No. 65, Buttenschon, Darling, Epstein, Cunningham,

McDonald, Stern, Gunther, DeStefano, Gonz�lez-Rojas, Sillitti,

Burdick. An act to amend the Mental Hygiene Law, in relation to the

duties of the independent developmental disability ombudsman

program.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: On a motion by Ms.

Buttenschon, the Senate bill is before the House. The Senate bill is

advanced and the bill is laid aside.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A01745-A, Rules

Report No. 66, Dinowitz, Seawright, Otis, Jacobson. An act to amend

the Public Service Law in relation to complaint handling procedures

by the public service commission.

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The bill is laid aside.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A02411, Rules Report

No. 67, Jones, Williams, Dickens, Ra, Cook, Burdick. An act to

amend the Executive Law, in relation to the classification of historical

lands and buildings located within the forest preserve.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Read the last section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect immediately.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The Clerk will record

the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A05080-A, Rules

Report No. 68, Gunther, Santabarbara. An act to require the

Commissioner of the Department of Civil Service to prepare a report

on certain Civil Service titles.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Read the last section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect immediately.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The Clerk will record

the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A05853-A, Rules

Report No. 69, Weprin, Aubry, Cook, Hyndman, Morinello, Taylor.

An act to amend the Mental Hygiene Law, in relation to certain

persons authorized to visit inmate-patient facilities.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Read the last section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect on the 90th

day.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The Clerk will record

the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A06205-A, Rules

Report No. 70, Reyes, Paulin, L. Rosenthal, Santabarbara, Glick,

Gibbs, Zinerman, Colton. An act to amend the Public Health Law, in

relation to education and outreach programs on the dangers of fatal

and non-fatal drowning.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: On a motion by Ms.

Reyes, the Senate bill is before the House. The Senate bill is

advanced.

Read the last section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect June 1st,

2025.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The Clerk will record

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A06397-A, Rules

Report No. 71, Burdick, Levenberg, Sayegh, Seawright, Dickens. An

act in relation to establishing the Task Force to promote the

employment of people with disabilities.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The bill is laid aside.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A07341-B, Rules

Report No. 72, Hevesi. An act to amend the Social Services Law, in

relation to allowing for child protective services workers to complete

certain required training through distance learning methods.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Read the last section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect immediately.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The Clerk will record

the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Ms. Walsh to explain her vote.

MS. WALSH: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. So this bill

will allow some of the hardest-working people, CPS case workers, to

fulfill their training requirements virtually as long as they're able to

have a question and answer format with the instructor. I think that

this is an important bill because it's going to -- well, first of all, I like it

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

because it looks to me from reading it that it's giving the counties the

option of allowing this, so it's -- it's not mandating it, but I think, you

know, this is very difficult work. In-person training is -- is usually

better, it's usually best, but in the interest of trying to get people

trained up and ready to enter the field and do this work, I think that

this is a -- this is a good idea to allow for virtual instruction. So I'll be

supporting it. Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Ms. Walsh in the

affirmative.

Shh. Ladies and gentlemen, and guests, when a

member is speaking, we ask you not to speak. People are not paying

attention to that, it's very disrespectful.

Read the last section -- I'm sorry.

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A08560-A, Rules

Report No. 73, Burdick, Sayegh, Seawright, Dickens. An act to

amend the Public Health Law, in relation to requiring hospitals to ask

patients if they have a disability that requires accomodation under The

Americans with Disabilities Act.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Read the last section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect on the 90th

day.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The Clerk will record

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A08609, Rules Report

No. 74, Solages. An act to amend the Civil Practice Law and Rules,

in relation to certification of class actions in cases involving

governmental operations.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The bill is laid aside.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A9057-B, Rules

Report No. 75, Lee, Ardila, Tapia, O'Donnell, Davila,

Gonz�lez-Rojas, Levenberg, Burdick, Taylor, Cunningham, Reyes,

Bores, L. Rosenthal, Fall. An act to amend the Banking Law, in

relation to mandating acceptance of the New York City identity card

as a primary form of identification at all banking organizations.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The bill is laid aside.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A09235-A, Rules

Report No. 76, Paulin. An act to amend the Public Health Law, in

relation to certificates of qualifications for clinical laboratories and

blood banks.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Read the last section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect immediately.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The Clerk will record

the vote.

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A09438, Rules Report

No. 77, Paulin, Colton. An act to amend the General Business Law

and the Public Health Law, in relation to the definition of medical

debt.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: On a motion by Ms.

Paulin, the Senate bill is before the House. The Senate bill is

advanced.

Read the last section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect immediately.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The Clerk will record

the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A09463, Rules Report

No. 78, Zebrowski, Burdick, Seawright. An act to amend the

Financial Services Law, in relation to the application of certain

provisions relating to commercial financing.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Read the last section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect immediately.

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The Clerk will record

the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A09529, Rules Report

No. 79, Hevesi, Wallace. An act to amend the Social Services Law, in

relation to the appropriate staff/child ratios for family day care homes,

group family day care homes, school age day care programs and day

care centers.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The bill is laid aside.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A09553-A, Rules

Report No. 80, Seawright, Zinerman. An act establishing the

"blue-ribbon commission on the future of New York State's service

delivery system for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental

Disabilities Act"; and providing for the repeal of such provisions upon

expiration thereof.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The bill is laid aside.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A09686, Rules Report

No. 81, Weprin, Burdick. An act to amend the Banking Law, in

relation to what mortgage applicants need to know pamphlet on

residential mortgages.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The bill is laid aside.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A09886, Rules Report

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

No. 82, Peoples-Stokes. An act to amend the Public Health Law, in

relation to increasing eligibility of admitted persons in general

hospitals for immunizations against influenza virus.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Read the last section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect on the 90th

day.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The Clerk will record

the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A09946, Rules Report

No. 83, Paulin. An act in relation to refunding penalties accrued on

certain real property taxes in the Town of Scarsdale, County of

Westchester.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Home Rule message

is at the desk. Read the last section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect immediately.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The Clerk will record

the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A10198, Rules Report

No. 84, Committee on Rules (Hevesi). An act to amend the Family

Court Act and the Civil Rights Law, in relation to name changes of

children.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Read the last section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect April 1st.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The Clerk will record

the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A10206, Rules Report

No. 85, Committee on Rules (Sillitti, Burdick). An act to amend the

Environmental Conservation Law, in relation to extending the

authority of the Department of Environmental Conservation to

manage scallops.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Read the last section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect immediately.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The Clerk will record

the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

THE CLERK: Assembly No. A10207, Rules Report

No. 86, Committee on Rules (Burdick). An act to amend Chapter 122

of the Laws of 2000 amending the Environmental Conservation Law

relating to authorizing sweepstakes with respect to subscriptions to

"The Conservationist," in relation to the effectiveness thereof.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Read the last section.

THE CLERK: This act shall take effect immediately.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: The Clerk will record

the vote.

(The Clerk recorded the vote.)

Are there any other votes? Announce the results.

(The Clerk announced the results.)

The bill is passed.

Mrs. Peoples-Stokes.

MRS. PEOPLES-STOKES: Mr. Speaker, if we could

please turn our attention to our resolutions that are on page 3, we will

take them up immediately.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Certainly.

On page 3, regular Calendar No. 2210, the Clerk will

read.

THE CLERK: Assembly Resolution No. 2210, Rules

at the request of Mr. Cunningham.

Legislative Resolution memorializing Governor

Kathy Hochul to proclaim February 21, 2024, as St. Lucia Flag Day in

the State of New York.

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: On the resolution, all

those in favor signify by saying aye; opposed, no. The resolution is

adopted.

THE CLERK: Assembly Resolution No. 2211, Rules

at the request of Mr. K. Brown.

Legislative Resolution memorializing Governor

Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 2024, as Co-Occurring Disorders

Awareness Month in the State of New York.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Mr. Brown on the

resolution.

MR. K. BROWN: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise

today. I am very excited to introduce this resolution proclaiming for

the very first time in New York State Co-Occurring Disorder

Awareness Month. Co-occurring disorders refer to the coexistence of

both a mental health and substance use disorder. The 2022 National

Survey On Drug Use and Health show that approximately 21.5 million

individuals in the U.S. have co-occurring disorders. The National

Institute of Drug Abuse estimates that approximately 50 percent of

people with a mental health challenge will develop a substance use

issue over the course of their lifetime, and 50 percent of those with

substance use issues will develop a mental health challenge. Youth

with substance use disorders often have co-occurring mental health

conditions, such as depression and anxiety.

Under the current silent system, people with

co-occurring disorders are unlikely to receive treatment for more than

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

one disorder, even though research demonstrates that integrated

treatment for multiple diagnoses and conditions produce better

outcomes compared with separate treatment for only the mental health

challenge or the substance use challenge. Even more frustrating is

that often they get no treatment. A report from Case Western

University showed that historically people with COD have been

excluded from mental health treatment because of their substance use

disorders. Likewise, they've been excluded from treatment for their

substance use issues because of their mental health symptoms. They

are trapped in a lose-lose cycle.

There needs to be increased focus on the needs with

people with COD in this State, and break the barriers across the

continuum from integrated prevention to integrated treatment - excuse

me - for both mental health challenges and substance use issues.

Understanding the relationship between mental health and substance

use disorders is the first step in creating knowledge and awareness,

leading to increase in help seeking and early detection. Then, if we

can ensure the opportunity to navigate integrated treatment modalities,

we can save lives and approve the outcomes and quality of life for

people with co-occurring disorders including reduce the continued

substance use, improvement in psychiatric symptoms and functioning,

increased chance of successful treatment and recovery for both

disorders, improvement of quality of life, reduce medication

interactions, increase housing stability and fewer arrests.

Additionally, wraparound supports for parents and loved ones build a

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

framework for engagement and sustainable recovery.

The Federal Substance Abuse Mental Health Service

Administration, or SAMSA, recommends integrating both the

screening and treatment for mental health and substance use disorders,

leading to a better quality of life and care of -- sorry, better quality of

care and help outcomes for those living with COD by treating the

whole person. And SAMSA Tip 42, substance use treatment for

persons with co-occurring disorders provides a best practices guide.

It's time to end the cycle for failure for these individuals.

Co-occurring disorders can be treated with the right approach.

Now, earlier today my colleague from Westchester

introduced a warrior and a champion for people with co-occurring

disorders, Stephanie Marquesano. Throughout The Harris Project,

which she founded after the accidental overdose of her 19-year-old

son, Harris, Stephanie has taken her family's pain and turned it into

purpose, becoming a leader locally, across New York State and

nationally on building a system of care to best meet the needs of those

with or at risk of developing COD. Harris was born on April 8th,

which is why we chose April as Co-occurring Disorder Awareness

Month.

I want to thank you and the Speaker for allowing me

to bring this resolution forward, and the cosponsors of this resolution

to help raise awareness about CODs so we can create a better system

of care for individuals suffering from COD, and create a true, no

wrong door approach to mental health challenges and substance use

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

issues in New York State. Thank you so much, Mr. Speaker.

ACTING SPEAKER AUBRY: Thank you.

On the resolution, all those in favor signify by saying

aye; opposed, no. The resolution is adopted.

THE CLERK: Assembly Resolution No. 2212, Rules

at the request of Mr. Lemondes.

Legislative Resolution memorializing Governor

Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 19, 2024, as Armenian Heritage Day

in the State of New York.

ACTING SPEAKER EACHUS: Mr. Lemondes on

the resolution.

MR. LEMONDES: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise

with the upmost respect and humility to honor this day on behalf of all

those killed and displaced by the Greek Pontian Armenian and

Assyrian Genocide, commonly and historically referred to as the

Armenian Genocide, in recognition of their fate, which ensnared so

many, two of whom were my grandparents. Ironically, this is the third

time anyone in my family has spoken publically of this since our

arrival here. And I do so not to seek pity, but simply for

acknowledgement that it occurred.

For the benefit of those who may not know, this

genocide was the first state-sponsored mass genocide of modern

civilization and served as the blueprint from which the Germans

refined the concept to use against the Jews 20 years later. Their

participation as a result of the Ottoman German Wartime Alliance,

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

many German officials, both military, officers and diplomats

witnessed firsthand the atrocities committed against these ethnic

Christian minorities. Taking place from 1914 and 1922, it was a

systematic extermination of an entire population, where the Ottoman

Turks directed the killing of over 2 million Anatolian Asia Minor

Greeks, Assyrians and Armenians; the actual number is unknown. An

equal number were forced to flee their homeland in one of the most

condemnable atrocities in the history of the world. These refugees

were largely considered state-less and resettled worldwide, and

depending on the source consulted, these numbers of those killed and

were settled are considered conservative. The Ottoman Regime

sought to consolidate its wartime position and to finance the

Turkification of Anatolia by confiscating the assets of murdered or

deported Armenians, Greeks, and Assyrians. This illegal

redistribution of property also provided incentive for large numbers of

ordinary people to join in the assault on their neighbors. Last, crimes

against humanity must always be condemned, because studies by

genocide scholars demonstrate the single best predictor of future

genocide is denial of past genocide coupled with impunity for its

perpetrator. Genocide deniers are three times more likely to commit

genocide again than other governments.

Let us never forget and let us always be vigilant.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

ACTING SPEAKER EACHUS: You're welcome.

On the resolution, all those in favor signify by saying

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

aye; opposed, no. The resolution is adopted.

THE CLERK: Assembly Resolution No. 2213, Rules

at the request of Ms. Sillitti.

Legislative Resolution memorializing Governor

Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 20, 2024, as Italian American Day in

the State of New York.

ACTING SPEAKER EACHUS: Ms. Sillitti on the

resolution.

MS. SILLITTI: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is my

honor to once again be the sponsor of Italian-American Day in State

of New York. On this day, we celebrate Festa de la Republica

Italiana. And if you saw in the Well today, you can see we are very

proud of our heritage, we are very proud of our culture, and we are

certainly very proud of our food. We of course are so much more than

our food, Mr. Speaker. Last year I talked about our immigrant story,

and I think it's also very apt to do so again.

For Italians in America, we all have our own unique

page in the story of America. My personal story began when my

grandparents came to this country seeking a better life for themselves

and, you know, they were faced with the same discrimination that

every generation of immigrants has before and has after them. Italian

immigrants, like so many new arrivals, were labeled as "others."

Anti-Italian stereotypes and sentiment were rampant and used to

justify the mistreatment of these new Americans. But, just like the

immigrants of today, this country brought them hope. And that hope

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

pushed them to work hard, to persevere despite the mistreatment and

live their American Dream. It's been two generations since my

grandparents arrived here from Italy, and now the third generation has

been born with my son, William Benedetto - half-Italian, but that's

okay - and he -- he will carry their legacy and he will live his own

American Dream, only in America.

So Mr. Speaker, on behalf of myself and the rest of

the New York Conference on Italian-American Legislators, I am so

proud to offer this resolution proclaiming this day as Italian-American

Day in the State of New York. Thank you so much.

ACTING SPEAKER EACHUS: You're welcome.

On the resolution, all those in favor signify by saying

aye; opposed, no. The resolution is adopted.

THE CLERK: Assembly Resolution No. 2214, Rules

at the request of Mr. Sayegh.

Legislative Resolution memorializing Governor

Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 25, 2024, as Jordanian-American

Heritage Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with the 78th

Anniversary of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan's Independence.

ACTING SPEAKER EACHUS: Mr. Sayegh on the

resolution.

MR. SAYEGH: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker.

Since I came to this Body as a Jordanian-American, a proud

Jordanian-American, I've been able and introducing legislation that

honors Jordanian-American heritage and independence. Jordan

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

became an independent state in May 1946, and when we speak about

the resolutions about different ethnic groups that come to our great

country, we realize it's really the same story. Some of us have origins

coming on a boat, or flying into whether it's New York City or Ellis

Island, and we realize that to a large extent we come to have the

American Dream, you know, we come for opportunity and we come

to improve life.

And my -- my community that's very vibrant in the

City of Yonkers and throughout the State is no exception. My father

came in August of 1955 on the Andrea Doria, a very special ship that

left out of Venice and came to Ellis Island, and then worked hard like

many immigrants and brought the family here, for me and my

brothers, Christmastime, 1957. And today, I got to say, the

Jordanian-American community, like we hear about the Italian and

later the Haitians and all the ethnic groups, they come to work hard to

become part of the American fabric, and to really expand the

awareness of what their history and culture and contributions to

civilization. Jordan, as you know, is lead by his Majesty King

Hussein and Queen Rania, and I've got to say, their work on the

international and regional scene to really promote stability whether in

the Middle East or issues involved in humanitarianism all across the

world is commendable.

So today, I'm proud as a Jordanian to issue this

resolution again, and to really thank all our colleagues for recognizing

the rich fabric of our State and of our nation. Thank you.

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

ACTING SPEAKER EACHUS: You're welcome.

On the resolution, all those in favor signify by saying

aye; opposed, no. The resolution is adopted.

THE CLERK: Assembly Resolution No. 2215, Rules

at the request of Mr. Ra.

Legislative Resolution memorializing Governor

Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 20, 2024, as Transatlantic Flight Day

in the State of New York.

ACTING SPEAKER EACHUS: On the resolution,

all those in favor signify by saying aye; opposed, no. The resolution is

adopted.

THE CLERK: Assembly Resolution No. 2216, Rules

at the request of Ms. Bichotte Hermelyn.

Legislative Resolution memorializing Governor

Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 2024, as Haitian Heritage Month in

the State of New York.

ACTING SPEAKER EACHUS: Ms. Bichotte

Hermelyn on the resolution.

MS. BICHOTTE HERMELYN: Thank you, Mr.

Speaker, for allowing me to speak on this vital resolution that

establishes the Month of May as Haitian Heritage Month in New York

State. May is a nationally recognized annual celebration in

recognition of the Haitian people and their immeasurable impact and

achievements. Haitian Heritage Month is an expansion of the Annual

Haitian Flag Day which we celebrated this Saturday on May 18th.

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

Haitian Heritage Month commemorates the heart and soul of the

people in Haiti and New York, the nation and our home country, the

Island of Haiti. The designation of Haitian Heritage Month

commemorates New York is a symbol of freedom to people

worldwide, and where Haiti was the first black nation in the Western

Hemisphere, and thus helped many nations gain their sovereignty

including the United States of America. We are celebrating 220 years

of independence, freedom, rich culture, history, and resilience. We

celebrate our heros like Toussaint Louverture and Jean-Jacques

Dessalines, Henri Christophe and Boukman, and we celebrate our

sheroes, Marie-Jeanne Lamartini�re who fought as a soldier in the

indigenous army, and Catherine Flon, who like Betsy Ross is credited

with crafting the Independent Black Republic of the Haitian Flag of

1803, and also served as a nurse.

We celebrate the Haitian soldiers who fought

alongside union in the Battle of Savannah, helping seize the beacon of

liberty that America promised, and we helped create it, including

expanding the U.S. Territory with the Louisiana Purchase. Our first

settler and the founder of Chicago was a Haitian man, Jean Baptiste

Point du Sable. We are faithful that we are further recognizing Haiti

and its historical contributions, along with its current challenges.

Haitian-Americans -- immigrants have come to the United States,

bring their own influences and cultural traditions to bury significant

spheres, including the arts, business, sports, literature, science and

law. We celebrate our food, like rice and beans, (speaking foreign

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

language) griot, which is fried pork, (speaking foreign language) of

which we drink every year in commemoration of our Haitian

independence. Haitian Creole is one of the top languages spoken in

New York City, and New York City has the largest concentration of

Haitians in the United States, as well as the oldest established Haitian

communities of the country.

I am proud to be a resident of Little Haiti, Brooklyn,

which we recently welcomed a train station rededication that is now

named, Little Haiti Newkirk Avenue. The surrounding streets of

Little Haiti are named after our black revolutionaries. We celebrate --

we also celebrate having five State Assembly members who are of

Haitian descent here in the People's House. I join the intensifying

global calls for a unified effort to assist Haiti and its people in

overcoming crisis. I also reaffirm that the need to safely and humanly

allow migrants to seek refuge here. For years, Haiti has suffered for

being bankrupt by the French, natural disasters, and recent

government instability leaving about 5.5 million Haitians in desperate

need of humanitarian assistant, and 1 million on the brink of famine.

Although this not has been easy time for Haitians, we

are resilient. Haitian Independence Day serve as a beacon of

inspiration and a reminder of our collective ability to overcome

immense adversity. (Speaking foreign language). Thank you, Mr.

Speaker, as we continue to recognize Haiti, the Haitian people, our

ancestors, our culture, our history, our heritage, and the future. May is

Haitian Heritage Month. Thank you.

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

ACTING SPEAKER EACHUS: You're welcome.

Ms. Darling on the resolution.

MS. DARLING: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. During

Haitian Heritage Month in New York State, I proudly celebrate the

vibrant culture and tremendous contributions of the Haitian

community. As someone married to a Haitian man and blessed with a

Haitian son, this month holds even more significance for me. As we

honor the heritage and embrace the richness of Haitian culture

together this month, I implore the State of New York to pray for and

find sustainable ways to support Haiti as it experiences massive

unrest. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

ACTING SPEAKER EACHUS: You're welcome.

On the resolution, all those in favor signify by saying

aye; opposed, no. The resolution is adopted.

THE CLERK: Assembly Resolution No. 2217, Rules

at the request of Ms. Solages.

Legislative Resolution memorializing Governor

Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 2024, as Cancer Research Month in

the State of New York.

ACTING SPEAKER EACHUS: On the resolution,

all those in favor signify by saying aye; opposed, no. The resolution is

adopted.

THE CLERK: Assembly Resolution No. 2218, Rules

at the request of Mr. Durso.

Legislative Resolution memorializing Governor

NYS ASSEMBLY MAY 20, 2024

Kathy Hochul to proclaim September 16-20, 2024, as Truck Driver

Appreciation Week in the State of New York.

ACTING SPEAKER EACHUS: On the resolution,

all those in favor signify by saying aye; opposed, no. The resolution is

adopted.

Mrs. Peoples-Stokes.

MRS. PEOPLES-STOKES: Mr. Speaker, do you

have further housekeeping or resolutions?

ACTING SPEAKER EACHUS: We have no

housekeeping, but we have many fine resolutions which we will take

up with one vote.

On the resolutions, all those in favor signify by saying

aye; opposed, no. The resolutions are adopted.

(Whereupon, Assembly Resolution Nos. 2219-2224

were unanimously approved.)

Mrs. Peoples-Stokes.

MRS. PEOPLES-STOKES: I now move that the

Assembly stand adjourned and that we reconvene at 2:30 p.m.

Tuesday, May the 21st, tomorrow being a Session day.

ACTING SPEAKER EACHUS: On Mrs.

Peoples-Stokes' motion, the Assembly is hereby standing adjourned.

(Whereupon, at 4:59 p.m., the Assembly stood

adjourned until Tuesday, May 21st at 2:30 p.m., Tuesday being a

Session day.)