The practice of law is always changing. What worked for a firm one year may not be the most effective strategy the next. That’s why many firms have started to focus on what’s called “law new.” While it’s not easy to define, this term typically means focusing on new ways to offer legal services. It can include working with underserved communities, creating strategies that have not been part of standard legal practice in the past and using technology to streamline processes.
In addition, a new law has been passed that requires landlords to provide tenants with notices about water quality testing and the results of those tests. Assembly Bill A7273 also prohibits apartment owners from installing keyless security devices to access buildings’ common areas unless they receive written consent from tenants and the necessary permits.
Another new law was passed that will require third-party food delivery service providers to obtain a license from the City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, requiring them to comply with all existing laws regulating such services. It will also repeal subchapter 22 of chapter 5 of the Administrative Code that contains other provisions governing third-party food delivery services.
Gov. Kathy Hochul signed 730 bills into law on Jan. 1, including legislation raising the minimum wage in New York City, Westchester and Long Island to $16 an hour, as well as a number of laws that will impact residents across the State. For example, new legislation named “Matthew’s Law” will make it easier for health care providers and local pharmacies to provide life-saving fentanyl test kits to the public.
The governor also signed several pieces of legislation related to the opioid and heroin epidemic. Legislation S.1839A/A.2609A establishes a Health Equity Council to advise the Health Commissioner on the prevention and screening of Sickle Cell Disease, while S.1451/A.782 expands upon the use of collaborative models to increase access to care and reduce health disparities in New York State. Lastly, S.4097B/A.5817A organizes the collection of health care claims data to create a New York State benefit claim analysis and will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the Health Insurance Marketplace. To learn more about these and other legislative actions, visit the Office of the Governor’s website.