PARK STRATEGIES NEWSLETTER JUNE 11TH
INSIDE Legislative Calendar Legislative session has concluded Legislative News End of Session Frenzy Bill highlights June Public Hearings From the Governor COVID Restrictions to be Lifted Applications for Small Business Grants Open Pier 76 Project Complete Agency News AG: Supports Opioid Fund Comptroller: NYC Finances Rebound
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Legislative news
2021 Legislative Session
While the 2021 Legislative Session has concluded, there remains the possibility of members returning to Albany before the beginning of the 2022 session.
Legislative Activity
The Legislature passed 698 bills this week while in session. This included the following measures:
- A399B (Rozic) / S1780C (Skoufis) Passed Assembly and Senate. Allows for notarization to be done electronically utilizing video conferencing technology.
- A6232C (Bichotte Hermelyn) / S4323C (Comrie) Passed Assembly and Senate. Establishes an independent advisory council that will study the current contracting process and adopt recommendations to improve the contracting process.
- A6767A (Woerner) / S4562A (Brooks) Passed Assembly and Senate. Establishes a presumption of coverage for vascular ruptures where such rupture results in the death or disability of a volunteer firefighter. This law will ensure these cases are not only covered, but also paid expeditiously.
The Senate also considered and confirmed approximately 145 appointees this week including members of various state agencies, and board members for various public authorities. Of particular note, Peter Wohl and Joseph Spairana were appointed to the board of the Capital District Transportation Authority.
Public Hearings
~ June 16th , Senate Standing Committees on Finance and Social Services; Assembly Standing Committees on Governmental Operations and Social Services. Subject: To discuss the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Program.
~June 21st , Assembly Standing Committees on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse; Mental Health. Subject: Integrating services offered by the Office of Addiction Services and Supports and the Office of Mental Health.
From the Governor
Governor Cuomo Announces Most Remaining COVID-19 Restricted to be Lifted
Governor Cuomo announced most remaining COVID-19 related restrictions will be lifted when 70% of the state has received their first vaccination shot. While an official order has yet to be issued, this could include lifting capacity restrictions, social distancing, health screening, industry specific restrictions, and more.
Governor Cuomo Announces Applications Open for Small Business
Governor Cuomo announced applications for the $800 million COVID-19 Pandemic Small Business Recovery Grant Program. Eligible small businesses can receive up to $50,000 in grant relief for COVID-related expenses. Governor Cuomo has also proposed to waive the taxes on these awards.
Governor Cuomo Announces Opening of Pier 76 in Manhattan
Governor Cuomo announced the completion of a $31 million project converting a New York City Police Department impound parking facility into a Hudson River Park. The park features recreation space, outdoor flexible space, and a propeller from the S.S. United States.
Executive Orders
Governor Cuomo has issued Executive Order (EO) 202.10, which extends the COVID-19 related EOs through July 5, 2021.
State Agencies
From the NYS Attorney General
Attorney General James Supports Passage of Legislation Creating Opioid Settlement Fund
New York Attorney General Letitia James issued a statement of support for S.7194/A.6395B, which passed in both houses of the legislature and mandates funding obtained through opioid related settlements be placed in a dedicated fund to be used for funding prevention, education, and treatment programs.
From the NYS Comptroller
NYC Finances Recovering
New York City’s economy and finances are recovering, largely due to federal economic stimulus for businesses and individuals, and direct federal relief to New York state, New York City and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, according to a report released today by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli.