Schuyler County Attorney Highlights Key New York State Laws Taking Effect in 2026

As New Yorkers prepare to ring in the new year, several significant laws are set to take effect in 2026 that will impact residents across the state, including those in Schuyler County. Schuyler County Attorney Steven Getman today outlined some of the most important changes, emphasizing their potential effects on workers, businesses, consumers and public safety.

"These new laws reflect ongoing efforts to address economic pressures, enhance transparency and protect vulnerable populations," Getman said. "While many apply statewide, their implications will be felt locally in Schuyler County, from our rural workforce to small businesses and families."
Among the key changes:

• Minimum wage increase: Effective Jan. 1, the state's minimum wage will rise to $17 per hour in New York City, Long Island and Westchester County, and $16 per hour in the rest of the state, including Schuyler County. This adjustment aims to help workers cope with rising living costs, potentially boosting local economies through increased spending. However, small businesses and employers in rural areas like Schuyler County may face higher operational expenses, which could lead to adjustments in pricing or staffing.
• LLC Transparency Act: Starting Jan. 1, most limited liability companies must disclose their beneficial owners to the state, targeting anonymous shell companies used for financial crimes. This will promote accountability in business dealings, particularly in real estate, helping tenants and residents identify true property owners and aiding law enforcement in investigations. In Schuyler County, where agriculture and small enterprises are prominent, this could reduce fraud and enhance trust in local transactions.
• Stricter driver points system: Effective February 2026, the threshold for driver's license suspension drops to 10 points within 24 months, with increased points for common violations like speeding, cell phone use and reckless driving. Designed to improve road safety, this change may lead to more suspensions statewide, encouraging safer driving habits. Schuyler County residents, who rely heavily on personal vehicles in rural areas, should review their driving records to avoid penalties that could disrupt daily commutes and work.
• Subscription cancellation protections: As of Jan. 1, companies must make canceling subscriptions as straightforward as signing up, banning hidden or complicated processes. This consumer safeguard will empower New Yorkers to manage their finances better, reducing unwanted charges. In Schuyler County, where residents may subscribe to services like streaming or farm supplies, this could save time and money for households.
• Expanded unemployment benefits and worker protections: In 2026, wage theft will be treated as larceny, unemployment benefits will increase with broader coverage for striking workers and temporary layoffs, and freelance protections will extend statewide. These measures strengthen labor rights, providing greater financial security for workers. In Schuyler County, with its mix of seasonal tourism, agriculture and small businesses, this could support employees during economic fluctuations.
• Medical Aid in Dying Act: Expected to take effect mid-2026, terminally ill adults meeting strict criteria may request life-ending medication under medical supervision. This controversial law expands end-of-life options, impacting healthcare providers and families statewide. Schuyler County residents facing terminal illnesses may gain more autonomy, though it raises ethical considerations for local medical professionals.

Getman noted that while these laws aim to benefit New Yorkers, their full effects will depend on implementation and individual circumstances. He encouraged residents to stay informed through official state resources.
Anyone with questions about these or other laws is urged to contact a qualified attorney of their own choosing.  
As County Attorney, Getman is the chief legal advisor for county government and is responsible for the prosecution and defense of civil actions brought by and against the county,

Ovid votes to establish a local development corporation

The Finger Lakes Times:

The Ovid Town Board unanimously — and enthusiastically — created the Ovid Local Development Corp., with the goal of supporting efforts to rebuild the community’s downtown.

Town Supervisor Joe Borst said the LDC, and the group that has been meeting to create it, are positive signs that “good things are going to come” to Ovid in the future, even if it’s not clear quite yet what that means.

“They just don’t know at this point,” Borst said about the property and business owners who were affected by the Jan. 21 fire that started in an apartment over the Ovid Big M. “I think some of them are still working with their insurance companies. They could decide to rebuild and the (LDC) could help, or they could deed the property and the (LDC) could take over.”

The measure adopted Wednesday establishes a temporary board of directors that includes Ellen Smith, Bruce Murray, and Erik Holmberg. Borst said applications are still being accepted for a full board of directors and asked that anyone interested submit letters of intent.

The letters will be reviewed by two members each from the Ovid village and town boards. Preference will be given to Ovid residents and business owners.

Borst said there have been several meetings since the fire with those interested in helping recovery efforts, but things had gone as far as they could go without an entity like the agency being established. He said he was grateful that a group stepped up to the plate to do it.

Ovid seeks applicants for new local development board

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The Ovid Town Board is calling on local leaders and business owners to help shape the area’s future by joining the board of a proposed Local Development Corporation (LDC).

The new not-for-profit corporation would focus on boosting economic development and revitalizing neighborhoods within the Town and Village of Ovid. The Town Board will appoint seven members to serve on the board of directors once the LDC is incorporated.

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In addition to appointed members, the board will include the Ovid Village Mayor and the Ovid Town Supervisor as ex-officio members or through designated representatives.

Those interested in applying must submit a letter detailing their residence and qualifications to the Ovid Town Board by 5:00 p.m. on June 30. Applications can be sent to 2136 Brown St, Ovid, NY 14521 or by email to ovidtowndeputyclerk@townofovid.net.

For more information, click the link above.