Bill > A00675

This bill enacts the Empire State Licensing Act, which aims to provide all New Yorkers with access to professional, occupational, commercial, or business licenses, permits, certificates, and registrations regardless of citizenship or immigration status. The bill amends multiple sections of New York state law to remove citizenship and immigration requirements for obtaining licenses across various professional fields, including healthcare, education, and business. Key provisions include: prohibiting licensing entities from inquiring about an applicant's citizenship or immigration status; accepting alternative forms of identification and work experience; allowing the use of individual taxpayer identification numbers instead of social security numbers; and ensuring confidentiality of any immigration-related information collected during the application process. The bill also mandates that licensing entities review their qualification processes to maximize accessibility for immigrant New Yorkers while maintaining professional standards. Additionally, the bill protects applicants by preventing licensing entities from retaining or improperly disclosing personal documents that might reveal immigration status. The legislation will take effect 180 days after becoming law, with immediate authorization for preparing implementing regulations.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A675