Governor Hochul Signs Wide-Ranging New Legislation

Governor Kathy Hochul of New York has signed several new laws to enhance consumer protection, public safety, and domestic violence victim protections. Five new consumer-focused laws aim to save New Yorkers money, including measures for health club membership cancellations, telemarketer regulations, and online restaurant sanitation transparency. Additional legislation addresses public safety by classifying the removal of religious clothing as aggravated harassment and supporting anti-violence educational programs for at-risk youth. Hochul also signed 'Detective Brian Simonsen's Law' to combat cell phone theft. Furthermore, 'Melanie’s Law' expands order of protection eligibility to all family members of domestic violence victims, inspired by the murder of Melanie Chianese. These legislative actions reflect Hochul's commitment to making New York safer and more affordable.