Bill > A00670

This bill authorizes the state of New York and its municipalities to establish permanent COVID-19 memorials through a community-driven process, with guidance from the state parks department and financial oversight from the comptroller's office. The bill creates a dedicated COVID-19 Permanent Memorial Fund that will collect money from appropriations, grants, gifts, and other sources specifically to support the creation and maintenance of these memorials. Municipalities interested in establishing such memorials can apply for funding from this new fund, and the memorial design and location selection process will prioritize input from those most impacted by COVID-19, such as family members of victims. The fund will be jointly managed by the state comptroller and the parks commissioner, with provisions allowing for investment of unused funds in government securities, and any earned income will be added back into the memorial fund. The memorials are intended to commemorate the community's experiences and losses during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on community involvement and respectful remembrance.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A670