Bill > S03747

This bill directs the New York State Department of Economic Development, in collaboration with multiple state and city agencies including Empire State Development, the Department of Education, and the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, to conduct a comprehensive study on increasing public access to museums in New York City. The study will cover specific museums such as the American Museum of Natural History, Brooklyn Museum, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and will examine current barriers to public access, historical access patterns, relevant laws, financial impacts, and sources of museum funding. The study will explore topics including museums' financial status, current access policies, historical missions, statutory requirements for free access, and changes in governmental support over time. The bill requires a detailed report to be submitted to the governor, senate president, and assembly speaker within one year of the act's effective date, including recommendations for expanding public access without compromising museum operations. The goal is to develop strategies that can improve public accessibility to cultural institutions while maintaining their core purposes and financial sustainability.

Business and Industry

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3747