Senator O'Mara's weekly column 'From the Capitol' -- for the week of October 6, 2025 -- "PROTECT Act seeks more responsible law and order"

Thomas F. O'Mara

October 8, 2025

PROTECT Act

Senator O'Mara

Senator O'Mara offers his weekly perspective on many of the key challenges and issues facing the Legislature.

Senate approves mandate relief legislation O’Mara co-sponsors to relieve counties of indigent defense costs

June 16, 2016

O’Mara said that the move to relieve counties locally and statewide of this unfunded state mandate, which earlier this year was identified by the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) as one of its top mandate relief priorities, would save counties statewide nearly $155 million a year.

Senate unanimously approves O’Mara legislation to require schools to test drinking water for lead contamination ~ Assembly approval expected and measure will go to governor to be signed into law

June 16, 2016

Senator O’Mara and Assemblywoman Lupardo have worked closely with a coalition of New York public health, environment, and healthy schools advocacy groups to urge support for the legislation’s enactment.

Legislature gives final approval to O'Mara-Lupardo legislation to advance New York State's industrial hemp industry

June 16, 2016

Supporters recognize industrial hemp as a potentially lucrative way to provide new economic opportunities for farmers.

O’Mara, Palmesano and legislative colleagues honor National Spelling Bee co-champion Jairam Hathwar at the Capitol today ~ Watch Here

June 15, 2016

Senator O'Mara, Jairam, and Assemblyman Palmesano in the Senate Chamber.