New York Attorney General Sues Suffolk Business for Illegally Clearing Protected Land for Commercial Development

MANORVILLE, N.Y. — New York State authorities have initiated legal action against a Suffolk County business owner for allegedly violating environmental preservation laws by clearing protected land for a non-permissible cabinetry and woodworking operation. The suit, brought forth by the state’s Attorney General, Letitia James, and the Central Pine Barrens Joint Planning and Policy Commission, targets Roberts Premier Development LLC and its principal, David Roberts. It was filed this Monday in the State Supreme Court in Suffolk County. According to the lawsuit, Roberts Premier Development is accused of unlawfully clearing approximately 13,000 square feet of … Read more

New York Poised to Set Precedent with Groundbreaking Health Data Privacy Law, Awaiting Governor’s Signature

ALBANY, N.Y. — New York state lawmakers have passed a groundbreaking health data privacy bill, dubbed the New York Health Information Privacy Act (NYHIPA), which now awaits the signature of Governor Kathy Hochul. This legislation positions New York at the forefront of states battling for enhanced privacy protections in health data handling, with implications that could extend nationally. NYHIPA aims to bridge significant gaps left by the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), introducing more stringent requirements for a wide range of businesses that deal with health-related data. This includes entities from telehealth … Read more

New York Tightens Data Breach Laws: Faster Notifications and Broader Privacy Definitions Now Mandatory

Albany, N.Y. — In a significant move to ramp up data privacy laws, Governor Kathy Hochul of New York signed new amendments on December 24, 2024, that enforce stricter notification protocols for businesses after data breaches and broaden the spectrum of what constitutes “private information.” This legislative update, both for private-sector entities and government agencies, is aimed at addressing the escalating concerns over personal data security in the digital age. The newly signed amendments usher in a mandatory 30-day notification period for businesses to inform New York residents affected by a data breach. The regulation … Read more

Venable LLP Welcomes High-Profile Litigator Tara Pehush to Strengthen Its New York Team

NEW YORK — Venable LLP has welcomed Tara Pehush as a new partner in its New York office, marking a significant addition to its Product Liability and Mass Torts Group. With nearly two decades of legal practice, Pehush brings a wealth of experience in products liability, commercial disputes, and toxic tort litigation and arbitration. Pehush, who has previously served clients across manufacturing, technology, and pharmaceutical sectors, specializes in risk management and complex appellate litigation. Her comprehensive legal experience has made her a vital asset in navigating high-stakes cases for her clients. Edward Boyle, co-chair of … Read more