Home/Bills/J 1156New York · 2025–2026 Legislative Session
Senate ResolutionChaptered/Signed

J 1156: Mourning the death of Donald Eckhart Sr., United States Air Force veteran, devoted family man and distinguished citizen

New York · Senate · 2025–2026 Legislative Session · last verified September 28, 2025

What J 1156 does, verified September 28, 2025

This legislative body mourns the death of a devoted family man and distinguished citizen who served his country with honor. The individual was a dedicated professional who built a respected career at IBM and contributed to the growth and innovation of the company. He was also a loving husband who shared 55 years of marriage with his wife and a devoted grandfather to his six grandchildren. The individual was known for his integrity, compassion, and unwavering devotion to his family, friends, and country. His legacy of love, laughter, and honor will forever live in the hearts of those who knew him.

Bill journey
✓IntroducedComplete
✓In CommitteeComplete
✓First Chamber FloorComplete
✓Second ChamberComplete
✓GovernorComplete
6ChapteredCurrent
Last action: ADOPTED (2025-06-10)Alert me
Quick answers about J 1156
What is the current status of J 1156?
As of September 28, 2025, J 1156 is recorded as "Chaptered/Signed": it has been signed by the Governor and chaptered into law. The last recorded action, on June 10, 2025, was "ADOPTED".
Did J 1156 pass?
Yes. J 1156 passed both houses and was signed into law (last action June 10, 2025). New York laws take effect on the date written into the bill, often immediately on signing or a set number of days afterward.
Who wrote J 1156, and where is it now?
J 1156 was authored by Sen. Peter Harckham.
Recent actions3 total · showing 3
Jun. 10, 2025ADOPTED
Jun. 10, 2025REPORTED TO CALENDAR FOR CONSIDERATION
Jun. 05, 2025REFERRED TO FINANCE
Latest bill textIntroduced version, May 23, 2025 · 482 words
 Senate Resolution No. 1156 BY: Senator HARCKHAM MOURNING the death of Donald Eckhart Sr., United States Air Force veteran, devoted family man and distinguished citizen WHEREAS, There are certain outstanding members of our community who, through their selfless commitment and dedication, have served to better the quality of life in our community and have had a measurable positive impact on the lives of its residents; Donald Eckhart Sr. was one such individual; and WHEREAS, It is with profound sorrow and deep regret that this Legislative Body records the passing of Donald Eckhart Sr. on Friday, May 23, 2025, noting the significance of his purposeful life and accomplishments; and WHEREAS, Donald Eckhart Sr. was born on August 10, 1946, in Allentown, Pennsylvania, to Paul and Mary (Campbell) Eckhart; fondly recalling his childhood, he often shared memories of swimming under every bridge in town and spoke of his upbringing with great pride and joy; and WHEREAS, Following his youth in Pennsylvania, Donald Eckhart Sr. moved to New York, where he dutifully and honorably served his country as a member of the United States Air Force; and WHEREAS, In October of 1970, Donald Eckhart Sr. married the love of his life, Diane (Smith) Eckhart, with whom he shared 55 devoted years of marriage, building a life centered on faith, family, and love; together they raised three children and shared their home with a long line of beloved dogs; and WHEREAS, A dedicated professional, Donald Eckhart Sr. built a respected and accomplished career at IBM, contributing his talents and work ethic to the growth and innovation of the company; and WHEREAS, Donald Eckhart Sr. was known not only for his professional achievements but also for his vibrant personal life; he found joy on the golf course and was a lifelong and loyal fan of the New York Jets; and WHEREAS, Above all else, Donald Eckhart Sr. cherished his role as grandfather to Kayla, Kristen, Taylor, Rocco, Elizabeth, and Emily; he found profound happiness in time spent with them and expressed his adoration through endless love and support; and WHEREAS, Donald Eckhart Sr. is survived by his beloved wife, Diane; his children, Allison (MaryAnn), Donald Jr. (Valerie), and Kristin (Ralph); his cherished grandchildren; and his siblings, Paul (Joyce), Sandra (Roman), David (Sally), and Debra (Mark); and WHEREAS, Donald Eckhart Sr. will be remembered as a man of integrity, compassion, and unwavering devotion to his family, friends, and country; he leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and honor that will forever live in the hearts of those who knew him; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to mourn the death of Donald Eckhart Sr., recognizing his remarkable life and his enduring contributions to his family, community, and nation; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the family of Donald Eckhart Sr. 
Text of J 1156 as introduced, from the official record. Connect Plus keeps every version and highlights what changed.Compare versions
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