Bill > A04435

This bill establishes the New York State Muslim American Advisory Council, a ten-member body designed to support and advocate for Muslim Americans in New York state. The council will consist of five representatives from community-based organizations and six members appointed by key state legislative leaders and the governor. Members will serve four-year terms without compensation but will be reimbursed for expenses, and they are required to meet at least four times per year. The council's primary responsibilities include advising the legislature on ways to advance Muslim American civic participation, recommending strategies for social, educational, cultural, and economic integration, facilitating international commerce relationships, and improving state program outreach to Muslim communities. The council will select its own chair and secretary and is mandated to produce an annual report presenting strategies and findings about Muslim American integration and state program implementation. The council aims to strengthen communication between state government and Muslim leadership, bring faith-based issues to legislative attention, and provide recommendations for addressing those issues.