Plugged In @ Hinman Straub

August 11, 2023

What’s Inside

  • NYSDOL issues COVID-19 Response Report
  • Governor Announces Statewide Cybersecurity Strategy
  • NYSDOL Announces Labor Standards Division is on Track to Recover Wages for Exploited Workers in 2023
  • Attorney General and NYSED Commissioner Issue Guidance to Promote Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in NYS Public Schools
  • NYPA President and CEO Confirmed by Default
  • In the News
  • Coming Up

NYSDOL Issues COVID-19 Response Report

Earlier this week, the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) issued the “NYSDOL and the COVID-19 Pandemic: Leading and Learning Through Crisis” report. The report is a retrospective of the agency’s response to the pandemic, with a detailed recounting of where they were as an agency during the height of the outbreak and how they have grown since.

In a press release announcing the report, the agency’s Commissioner, Roberta Reardon, stated that the NYSDOL created this report in the spirit of transparency, offering an honest recounting of the circumstances that left them overwhelmed in the beginning of the pandemic, and the steps they took to get through to today.

Governor Announces Statewide Cybersecurity Strategy

On Wednesday, Governor Kathy Hochul announced a statewide cybersecurity strategy, in an effort to protect the state’s digital infrastructure from today’s cyber threats. The full strategy can be accessed here. The cybersecurity strategy is defined by three central principles: unification, resilience, and preparedness.

The strategy clarifies agency roles and responsibilities, outlines how existing and planned initiatives, and investments knit together into a unified approach. It also reiterates the state’s commitment to providing services, advice, and assistance to county and local governments.

Governor Hochul said:

Our interconnected world demands an interconnected defense leveraging every resource available. This strategy sets forth a nation-leading blueprint to ensure New York State stands ready and resilient in the face of cyber threats. 

More information can be found in the Governor’s press release here. The Governor made this announcement at a press conference on Wednesday in Brooklyn, which can be viewed here.

NYSDOL Announces Labor Standards Division is on Track to Recover Wages for Exploited Workers in 2023

The NYSDOL has announced that its Division of Worker Protection investigators have recovered and returned over $11.7 million in stolen wages to 12,000 affected workers since January 1, putting the Department on track to recover $20 million in stolen wages this year. Over $200,000 in recovered funds span six larger cases in which the Division of Labor Standards was able to investigate and reach settlements.

NYSDOL Commissioner Reardon said:

Wage theft undermines the dignity and rights of hardworking New Yorkers. The Division of Labor Standards’ investigators work with law enforcement partners to ensure that no employer is above the law, and that all workers’ rights are protected. If any New Yorker believes they are a victim of wage theft, contact the Department immediately.

More information can be found in the Department’s press release here.

Attorney General and NYSED Commissioner Issue Guidance to Promote Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in NYS Public Schools

New York State Attorney General Letitia James and New York State Education Department (NYSED) Commissioner Betty A. Rosa have issued guidance reminding New York public schools and local education agencies of their obligation to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in educational planning and decision-making. Resources are being provided to school leaders to assist in fulfilling their commitment to ensuring every student in New York has the opportunity to learn free from the fear of discrimination, harassment, and intimidation.

The join guidance offers recommendations for upholding the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion in three key areas of the school experience, which include the following:

  • Ensuring teaching and learning reflect the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion;
  • Addressing disproportionately punitive student disciplinary policies and practices; and
  • Establishing effective policies and procedures to prevent and respond to bullying and harassment.

Attorney General James said:

Every student in New York is entitled to learn, grow, and discover in an environment free from discrimination or harassment. As states such as Texas, Florida, and Missouri are banning books and canceling classes, New York is making clear that diversity, equity, and inclusion will always be protected and central to our children’s education. We know that our kids and teachers thrive when they feel seen and heard, and I thank Commissioner Rosa and Chancellor Young for their partnership in supporting our communities. If any student, parent, or teacher has concerns, I encourage them to contact my office.

NYSED Commissioner Rosa said

We are urging every school district to reflect on local policies, strategies, and tactics and advance the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion to ensure all students have the supports necessary to be fully engaged. Students cannot learn and develop socially and emotionally when they feel disconnected, intimidated, harassed, or discriminated against. We have a responsibility to remove the barriers that stand in the way of success for many students. In partnership with Attorney General James and our school and district leaders, the Department and Board of Regents can foster a safe, supportive environment where all New York State students feel included and welcome.

NYPA President and CEO Confirmed by Default

Justin Driscoll was automatically confirmed as President and CEO of the New York Power Authority after not receiving a confirmation vote by the State Senate at the end of this year’s session.

The Democratic Socialists of America, having recently taken a victory lap over blocking his confirmation vote in the Senate, were forced to learn the intricacies of the Public Authorities Law the hard way. According to Section 2852, if the Senate does not act on a nomination for NYPA President and CEO, Executive Director of the Dormitory Authority, Executive Director of the Thruway Authority, or LIPA Officers within 60 days of the nomination (or within 7 days of returning to session if the nomination occurs when the Legislature is adjourned) the nomination is deemed confirmed without further action by the Senate.

Political Updates

City & State NY’s Weekly Winners and Losers here.

City & State NY’s 2023 Brooklyn Power 100 here.

New York State Minimum Wage will rise with inflation index starting in 2027.

Governor Hochul’s husband leaving Delaware North.

Pen New York Executive Director talks about affordable housing.

Report gives rise to talk of economic development transparency reform.

New York State’s Office of Cannabis Management Director talks marijuana market.

Top New York Democrats unite to counter soft-on-crime attacks from Republicans.

Buffalo Mayor Brown names two senior advisers from within his cabinet.

Funding nuclear power will produce energy savings for New Yorkers, Hochul says.

Comptroller flags costs and challenges for New York’s renewable target.

Assembly Speaker not expecting special session this year despite report.

Assembly Speaker says Hochul’s housing plan needs refocusing.

Housing exec orders don’t outweigh future legislative action, officials say.

Former Governor Andrew Cuomo’s Health Director hired by CDC.

New York Comptroller releases report detailing revenue impact of New York’s casinos.

Coming Up

The Public Service Commission will hold their next meeting on August 17.

The Board of Regents will hold their next meeting on September 11 and 12.

The Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in State Government will hold its next meeting on September 27.