News in New York – City Legislation, Chief Judge, Rat Czar

NYC Council Passes and Introduces Legislation

Last Tuesday, the NYC Council convened a Stated meeting, where they passed and introduced multiple pieces of legislation. The Council approved legislation requiring the disclosure of full ticket prices in advertisements, expanding telemedicine accessibility, and establishing an outreach program about solar and green roof systems. The Council also introduced a bill requiring interest to be paid on late payments under city contracts with non-profit organizations, along with legislation requiring the Department of Buildings to provide information on a building’s emissions and potential penalties under Local Law 97. You can find all of the bills that were passed and introduced here.

Hochul Nominates New Chief Judge

Governor Kathy Hochul has nominated Rowan Wilson as Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals. Wilson currently serves as associate judge on the Court, and would be the first Black Chief Judge in New York State history if confirmed. The Governor simultaneously announced an intention to nominate Caitlin Halligan, former solicitor general, as Associate Judge to replace Wilson. The Senate Judiciary Committee will hold a hearing today on Wilson’s nomination, and tomorrow regarding Halligan’s nomination.

Adams Appoints Rat Czar

Mayor Adams has appointed the city’s first “rat czar,” Kathleen Corradi. With the formal title of “Director of Rodent Mitigation,” Corradi’s position will focus on coordination across government agencies, community organizations, and the private sector to reduce the amount of rats within the city. She previously worked at the Department of Education’s Office of Sustainability and developed the Zero Waste Schools initiative.