Bill > A02496

This bill amends the state finance law to include entities that provide employment or services to formerly incarcerated persons in the preferred source exemption for state purchasing. Specifically, the bill expands existing provisions that give special purchasing priority to nonprofit agencies serving disabled persons, blind individuals, veterans, and those with mental illness to now also include organizations that employ or provide services to formerly incarcerated individuals. Under this legislation, state agencies would be required to consider purchasing commodities and services from these qualified nonprofit organizations before pursuing competitive procurement processes, provided the preferred source can perform at least 50% of the work and meets certain pricing guidelines (no more than 15% above market prices). The bill allows these organizations to purchase materials from centralized contracts and correctional industry programs, and provides for oversight through potential audits by the state comptroller. The changes aim to create additional economic opportunities for formerly incarcerated individuals by helping organizations that support their employment and reintegration into society.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2496