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Senate concludes marathon day: hundreds of bills passed, nominations confirmed and farewells for departing members
Summary
On the final scheduled day of session the Senate advanced and passed a large slate of bills, confirmed judicial and other nominations, adopted ceremonial resolutions and heard farewell remarks from several departing senators including Oberacker, Weik, Martins and Kavanagh.
The New York State Senate concluded a long floor day June 3 that included votes on hundreds of bills, confirmations of judicial and authority nominees, adoption of multiple ceremonial resolutions and personal farewell remarks by several senators leaving the Legislature.
The chamber confirmed numerous nominees for state authorities, the judiciary and advisory boards and approved wide-ranging legislation across health, labor, taxes, environment and consumer protection. Roll-call tallies recorded on the floor show many unanimous or near-unanimous results; several high-profile, contested measures included a one-year moratorium/study on hyperscale data centers (Ayes 42, Nays 18), a prohibition on certain uses of electronic shelf labels and individualized “surveillance” pricing in large grocery and pharmacy stores (Ayes 50, Nays 10), and changes addressing the 340B drug program (Ayes 48, Nays 12).
Outside formal votes, members used explain-vote time to spotlight local projects and state priorities including housing proposals, veterans’ and public safety measures, and support for community organizations. The Senate also adopted dozens of resolutions recognizing organizations and honoring individuals and events across the state.
The chamber closed with several moving departing remarks. Senators Carl Oberacker, Pam Helming (remarks elsewhere), Jen Weik, Julia Martins and Tim Kavanagh shared stories of family and public service; the floor gave sustained applause. "Mahalo," Senator Oberacker said in closing, drawing visible emotion from colleagues. Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and Minority Leader Rob Ortt both offered public thanks to members and staff before recess.
What happens next: bills that passed the Senate now move to the Assembly or to conference as required by legislative procedure; approved measures will go to the governor for signature or veto. Several items that drew controversy are likely to require additional implementation guidance or rulemaking by state agencies.
Why it matters: the session moved dozens of laws with direct effects on everyday life in New York — from consumer protections and housing to public health and utility oversight — and set implementation tasks for state agencies and regulators over the coming year.
