Bill > A02607

This bill amends the New York State Arts and Cultural Affairs Law to increase support and resources for culturally diverse arts and cultural organizations, with a particular focus on promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and racial and social justice. The legislation makes several key changes: it updates the state's policy declaration to explicitly recognize racial and social inequities in arts and culture, and to support greater access and diversity; it modifies the composition of the Council on the Arts to ensure broader representation and consideration of historic inequities when appointing members; it expands the Council's powers to include promoting cultural preservation, development, and social justice; and it allows the Council to provide grants and support to culturally diverse non-profit arts organizations that advocate for access, diversity, equity, and inclusion. The bill aims to address systemic barriers in the arts and cultural sector by mandating a more inclusive approach to funding, representation, and programming. By introducing language that emphasizes diversity and equity, the legislation seeks to create more opportunities for marginalized communities and ensure that arts and cultural resources are more equitably distributed across the state.

Business and Industry

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A2607