Bill > S03992

This bill requires state agencies to prepare racial and ethnic impact statements for proposed legislation that could potentially affect minority populations in three key areas: the correctional system, public assistance programs, and child welfare services. Specifically, before a bill can be considered by a legislative committee, the bill's sponsor must have the relevant state agency (such as the Division of Criminal Justice Services or the Office of Children and Family Services) analyze and document the potential racial and ethnic impacts of the proposed legislation. The impact statements must estimate how the bill might disproportionately affect minorities, using statistical data and comparing impacts across different racial and ethnic groups. If an impact statement reveals significant adverse effects on minority populations, the bill's sponsor must either amend the legislation to reduce those impacts, withdraw the bill, or provide a written explanation for why the bill should proceed despite potential disparate effects. The impact statements must be made publicly available at least 30 days before the first committee vote, and they must project potential impacts for at least three fiscal years. The bill aims to address systemic racial disparities by requiring lawmakers to explicitly consider the potential unintended consequences of legislation on minority communities before enacting new laws.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3992