Bill > S01360

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for how state employees handle confidential information, defining confidential information as sensitive data like health status, income tax records, sexual orientation, immigration status, and other legally protected personal details. The bill creates a structured process for collecting, recording, and disclosing such information, requiring that state employees can only share confidential information under specific circumstances: when legally mandated, with written authorization from the individual (or their guardian), when there is reasonable suspicion of criminal activity, or for statistical compilation with strict non-disclosure guarantees. The legislation mandates that each state agency designate an access officer responsible for approving information releases, and line workers must obtain prior written approval before disclosing any confidential information. The bill also establishes a complaint review process and imposes a civil penalty of up to $1,000 on agencies that violate these provisions. Importantly, the bill does not reduce existing confidentiality protections under other laws and includes a severability clause to ensure that if any part of the law is found unconstitutional, the rest remains in effect. The primary goal is to protect individuals' private information while enabling necessary governmental functions.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1360