Senator James Sanders Jr. Legislative Victories that Protect Consumers and Advance Economic Equity

Albany, NY —  Senator James Sanders Jr. is proud to announce that a number of his bills — S2680, S3072, S3178A, S4153A, S4157, S4728A, S6315, S8292, S8299, and S8357 — have successfully passed both houses of the New York State Legislature, representing major wins in the fight for economic fairness, consumer protection, and future-focused governance.

These bills address a wide range of challenges facing everyday New Yorkers , from financial discrimination and housing injustice to consumer protection and emerging technology. Notably, S2680, which requires the reporting of private education debt, has already been signed into law by the Governor and is currently in effect. This legislation expands transparency to student lending practices, helping borrowers and their families make more informed financial decisions.

Other legislation passed this session includes a bill banning the use of consumer credit history in employment decisions, removing a common and harmful barrier for those rebuilding after financial hardship. Another ensures that businesses cannot refuse cash payments, protecting access for unbanked and underbanked residents who rely on physical currency. A third bill repeals the outdated anti-arson application, which has long created unnecessary red tape for property owners statewide, specifically disadvantaged communities. Senator Sanders also led the passage of a bill that requires the removal of illegal restrictive covenants from property deeds before a sale, which eliminates an offensive legacy of all kinds of discrimination including on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, familial status, marital status, disability, national origin, source of income, or ancestry.

“Each of these bills is about restoring fairness and common sense,” said Senator Sanders. “We’re protecting working people from discrimination, keeping our economy accessible, and making sure New York doesn’t fall behind in innovation. These aren’t just policy changes, they’re justice in action.”

These legislative victories mark a growing shift in Albany, where grassroots concerns about financial equity, access to services, small business development, and digital preparedness are finally gaining traction. As New York faces mounting challenges from affordability and automation to housing barriers and economic exclusion, Senator Sanders is committed to pushing forward legislation that centers the needs of everyday people.

With more work to do in the months ahead, the Senator is calling on colleagues across both chambers to keep the momentum going. Whether it’s protecting consumers, opening financial pathways for underserved communities, or expanding opportunities for small businesses, Senator Sanders’ message is clear: Albany must act boldly, thoughtfully, and urgently.

For more information or to request a quote or interview from Senator Sanders please reach out to Joshua Green at jgreen@nysenate.gov or call 718-523-3069

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