District 10 Update: July 31, 2025

I was honored to participate on a panel at the recent Converge Conference, where we discussed the current landscape and future direction of AI legislation. I shared insights from the AI legislation I sponsored , which prohibits the unlawful use of digitally deceptive material in Westchester. This law expands penalties for the creation and distribution of digitally enhanced media, ensuring that our residents are better protected from the circulation of harmful, false content. The successful passage of this law highlights the critical role local governments play in developing meaningful policies informed by direct community needs. These local initiatives often serve as effective blueprints for state, and ultimately federal laws. We also explored ongoing state and federal initiatives and legislation, addressing concerns related to the recent federal "Big Beautiful Bill," which initially proposed a problematic 10-year moratorium on local AI legislation. Thankfully, this provision was not included in the final bill. However, the federal government continues to link critical funding, such as broadband infrastructure grants, to restrictions on local AI regulation. This heavy-handed approach is counterproductive to the goal of creating AI policy that supports positive use of the technology while at the same time protecting the interests of consumers. We can and should explore ways to harness the power of these new technologies to fuel economic growth and job creation while also staying vigilant about the risks and potential harms. Please check out my weekly update below, which includes information on the following: District 10 Events Free Legal Help Now Available for Tenants Facing Eviction School Tax Relief (STAR) Credit Payments Coming Soon Weekend Fun in Westchester Parks Upcoming Board of Legislators' Meeting - August 4 Thank you for taking the time to stay informed! Sincerely, Judah Holstein Legislator, 10th District​​ DISTRICT 10 EVENTS   Lake Isle Presents The Little Mermen Disney tribute band on August 4 (designed for kids with parents). Performance starts at 6 PM.     New Rochelle and Tuckahoe Police Departments present their respective National Night Out celebrations, August 5, at 5 PM. The New Rochelle event is at their police station. The Tuckahoe event is at Main St. Park (corner of Main and Marbledale). DJs, equipment demos, bubble bus, and more.   New Rochelle Kids Backpack Giveaway on August 8, at 4 PM (city hall). Food trucks, music, and more. Register and see info here.   New Rochelle Housing Lottery providing 31 affordable housing units. See info and application here. Due September 19.  Free Legal Help Now Available for Tenants Facing Eviction Westchester County now offers free legal services to help low-income residents facing eviction and other housing challenges. The new Office of Housing Counsel (OHC) connects residents with legal counseling, financial aid, and pre-eviction support through a network of nine legal service providers. Tenants can complete the intake form at housingcounsel.westchestergov.com or call 2-1-1 for 24/7 assistance.   Learn More School Tax Relief (STAR) Credit Payments Coming Soon Eligible homeowners in communities with school tax due dates in August or September will start receiving their STAR credit within the next month. Most homeowners will receive between $350 and $600, while seniors with Enhanced STAR can expect $700 to $1,500. To check on your payment status or sign up for direct deposit, visit ny.gov/STAR. Direct deposit gets your STAR benefit to you faster—no need to wait for or cash a check. You can sign up through the Homeowner Benefit Portal using the Tax Department's secure online system. To make sure you get direct deposit for this year's payment, sign up as soon as possible. Weekend Fun in Westchester Parks   Looking for something to do this weekend? Westchester County parks are packed with activities for all ages! Enjoy a 3‑mile historical hike at Croton Point Park, sip tea with the animals at Hilltop Hanover Farm, take in a naturalist's stroll at Merestead, or bring the family to Glen Island for a sand art competition and fun day by the beach. Plus, celebrate Saxon Woods' 100th anniversary with a movie night, explore the Muscoot Farmers Market, experience the Indian Heritage Festival at Kensico Dam Plaza, and more. Learn More Join Us for the Next Board of Legislators' Meeting - August 4 The Board of Legislators invites you to participate in our upcoming meeting on Monday, August 4, 2025, at 10 AM. At the regular board meeting, five public hearings will be held to consider:  Entering into a 10-year lease for the Department of Health to rent 12,273 square feet of medical office space at 86 Main Street in Yonkers for $454,101 annually, replacing the current 20 South Broadway location and continuing health programs, including WIC nutrition services. Removing one parcel of property at 120 Pollywiggle Lane in Mount Pleasant from the Saw Mill Valley Sanitary Sewer District. Removing one parcel of property at 127 Palmer Lane in Mount Pleasant from the Saw Mill Valley Sanitary Sewer District. Approving items in the Westchester Community College Budget for 2025-2026. Allowing Westchester County to enter five-year agreements with local police departments for mutual aid and emergency response assistance. The plan would allow participating municipalities to share police resources during emergencies that exceed their individual capabilities, with operational details managed by the Westchester County Chiefs of Police Association. Learn how to watch or speak here.