Assemblywoman Buttenschon Applauds Passage of Life-Changing Co-Sponsored Legislation Protecting Families, First Responders, and the Future of New York 

Albany, NY – The 2025 Legislative Session concluded on Tuesday, marking the close of a productive and impactful season in Albany. Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon (D–119) is proud to announce the passage of a powerful and diverse package of co-sponsored legislation aimed at protecting New York families, supporting first responders, honoring veterans, strengthening public health, expanding educational access, and helping small businesses thrive. 

“Every piece of legislation I support is rooted in the real conversations I’ve had with families, first responders, educators, veterans, and small business owners right here in our community. These bills reflect our shared values: compassion, fairness, and the belief that government should serve and uplift every New Yorker. I’m proud to bring the voices of the Mohawk Valley to Albany and fight for what matters most to us.” 

Families, Youth, and Education 

• A.785 – Cardiac Emergency Response Plans in Schools (Desha’s Law) 

Builds on the Louis Acompora Act by requiring detailed cardiac emergency plans in all public schools, including AED access and EMS coordination. This reform equips schools with lifesaving tools to respond swiftly to sudden cardiac events. 

• A.2687 – Dyslexia and Dysgraphia Education Center Establishment 

Creates a specialized center within the Department of Education to increase early diagnosis, support, and evidence-based teaching strategies for students with dyslexia and dysgraphia, ensuring more equitable academic outcomes. 

Healthcare Access and Provider Support 

• A.2520 – Durable Medical Equipment Reimbursement Equity 

Ensures Medicaid managed care organizations reimburse durable medical equipment providers at no less than 100% of the state Medicaid rate, protecting patient access and provider sustainability. 

• A.7832 – Modernizing Physical Therapy Supervision 

Allows physical therapist assistants to be supervised remotely, helping expand access to care without compromising quality or safety.

Public Safety, First Responders, and Emergency Services 

• A.6055 – Workplace Protections for Assaulted Healthcare Workers 

Empowers healthcare professionals by allowing victims of workplace assaults in hospitals, nursing homes, and emergency care settings to provide police statements directly at their place of employment. This critical reform acknowledges the intense demands placed on frontline healthcare workers and removes procedural barriers that have discouraged reporting, encouraging accountability and ensuring timely justice. 

• A.7363-B – Protecting Communication Rights for Individuals with Disabilities Affirms the right of every individual with a disability to communicate in their preferred manner, removing barriers and advancing equity in public life. 
• A.3669 – Fair Pay for Court Interpreters 

Increases compensation for court interpreters and ensures towns and villages share that responsibility, strengthening access to justice for non-English speakers statewide. 

• A.5619 – Property Tax Exemption Expansion for EMS & Firefighter Families Expands tax relief to the families of volunteer firefighters and EMS workers killed in the line of duty, even with as little as two years of service. Municipalities may increase exemptions up to 50% of the property’s assessed value, recognizing the enduring sacrifice of first responder families. 
• A.8086 – Emergency Medical Services Local Planning Act 

Mandates counties, in collaboration with municipalities and regional EMS councils, to develop and submit comprehensive emergency medical service plans within six months. These plans will assess EMS needs and lay a path for statewide improvements. 

• A.3729 – Property Tax Relief for Families of Fallen Police Officers 

Offers a powerful tribute to fallen heroes by establishing a 50% property tax exemption for the surviving spouses of police officers who made the ultimate sacrifice. This bill delivers lasting financial support for grieving families while honoring courageous service. 

• A.6452B – Critical Incident Paid Leave for State Police 

Requires the development of a non-punitive paid leave policy for troopers involved in traumatic events. This ensures that officers receive the emotional recovery time they need without fear of retaliation. 

• A.34 – Thruway Toll Exemption for Emergency Vehicles 

Exempts ambulances and fire vehicles from paying tolls while engaged in emergency operations, streamlining life-saving response times and reducing costs for public agencies. 

Outdoor Recreation and Conservation 

• A.8330 – Expanding Crossbow Hunting Access 

Clarifies state law to permit the use of crossbows for big game wherever longbows are allowed, improving consistency and accessibility for hunters.

Veterans Affairs 

• A.3240-A – Veterans Tuition Award Benefit Transfers 

Expands the veterans tuition awards program to allow unused benefits to be transferred to a spouse, child, or surviving family member, ensuring support continues even after a veteran’s passing. 

• A.8485 – Expanding Volunteer Opportunities for Veterans 

Requires the Department of Veterans’ Services to publish available volunteer opportunities on its website and post relevant application forms. This bill empowers veterans to stay active in their communities, fosters civic engagement, and helps match veterans with meaningful ways to continue their service through volunteerism. 

Small Business Support 

• A.3888 – Modernizing Free Trade Zone Access for Insurers 

Removes the requirement for insurers to maintain a physical office in New York to access the Free Trade Zone, promoting regulatory flexibility and economic growth in specialized insurance markets. 

• A.7464 – Small Business Liquor Purchase Flexibility 

Allows small bars and restaurants to purchase wine and liquor directly from other retailers. This commonsense change supports inventory control and lowers costs for local small business owners. 

These co-sponsored bills, backed by bipartisan support, underscore Assemblywoman Buttenschon’s reputation as a compassionate legislator who fights tirelessly for fairness and practical solutions. 

“It’s not just about passing bills, it’s about standing up for people,” said Assemblywoman Buttenschon. “Session may have ended, but the work never stops. I’ll continue advocating every single day to make sure the voices of our region are heard, our families are protected, and our future is brighter. I am honored to serve the 119th District and proud of all we’ve accomplished together.”