Authorizes the New York state energy research and development authority to administer a program to provide grants or loans for the costs related to enabling switching residences with propane or fuel-oil heating systems to efficient electric heat pumps.
Relates to strengthening of utility storm response and compliance by reviewing mitigating factors including but not limited to mitigating factors and the specifics surrounding the violation or violations.
Provides interest rate limitations for financing arrangements and the extension of consumer credit; relates to the definitions of criminal usury in the first and second degrees; relates to the functions of the attorney general regarding rental purchase agreements.
Requires an official inspection station to post a sign or poster informing customers that it is not authorized to inspect an altered motor vehicle unless the registrant presents a state DOT exemption letter, otherwise, such vehicle shall report to the Department of Transportation.
Prohibits the use of remote or virtual learning as a form of punishment or disciplinary action; provides exceptions for failure to comply with COVID-19 health and safety protocols.
Defines "professional journalist"; provides press access to open meanings of an agency or authority; prohibits the adoption of policies or rules restricting such access; requires notice of such meetings to local governments.
Establishes the New York native plants program to conserve, promote, and enhance the native ecology of New York state by encouraging the use of native plants and ecological-friendly methods and materials on state and local land.
Establishes the "division of research and analysis" which is a part of the legislative library and assists members of the legislature by providing research and analysis on policy.
Enacts the "standing is tiring (sit) act"; requires employers to provide suitable seats to all employees where the nature of such employees' work reasonably permits seated work; prohibits employers from artificially designing a work space to require standing; requires the department of labor to determine whether the nature of work reasonably permits seated work; creates a private right of action for employees whose employer does not provide seats.
Requires all state agencies and offices to cease purchasing single-use plastic water bottles; authorizes the commissioner of the office of general services to enter into contracts for the installation of water bottle filling stations in state buildings; provides for the purchase of single-use plastic water bottles under certain circumstances; requires each state agency to submit a report to the state procurement council and to the New York state climate action council containing a summary of the steps they have taken to comply with the directive.