A state advocate office, as well as a measure creating a care demonstration program for the state's most vulnerable, were among the measures state lawmakers on Monday approved as part of a package of bills to support people with disabilities in New York.

The measures were approved as part of the annual Legislative Disabilities Day at the state Capitol — a rare bipartisan moment at the Capitol for many of the bills in both the state Senate and Assembly.

"The Assembly is committed to promoting access and inclusion so that everyone in our communities has opportunities to thrive,” Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie said. “Every year on Legislative Disabilities Awareness Day we recognize the unique challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and search for meaningful ways to improve their lives. Today’s legislative package includes bills that ensure all New Yorkers have access to critical services and supports they need to be successful.”

The measures in the Assembly also include a bill that would end New York's sovereign immunity for applying the federal Americans with Disabilities Act and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, as well the Fair Labor Standards Act for state workers.

Lawmakers also approved a bill that would require state officials and government entities in the state to provide qualified interpreters and assistive listening devices for people who are deaf and hearing-impaired upon request at public meetings.

A bill that would create a small business tax credit that ranges from $5,000 to $25,000 for employers who hire people with disabilities was also approved.​

“We must ensure disabled New Yorkers have the opportunities and tools they need to succeed and the protections and access to care that these bills will provide,” Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said. “They enrich our communities and contribute so much to our state. I am proud of the Senate Majority’s efforts to protect members of our community who need assistance. The Senate Democratic Majority is committed to supporting individuals with disabilities, and we will keep moving forward towards a brighter, better future with equity for all.”