Bill > A04519

This bill directs the New York Department of Economic Development to conduct a comprehensive study on increasing public access to museums in New York City, working in conjunction with multiple state and city agencies including Empire State Development, the Department of Education, and the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs. The study will examine a wide range of museums, such as the American Museum of Natural History, Brooklyn Museum, and Metropolitan Museum of Art, focusing on current and historical barriers to public access. Specifically, the study will investigate the financial status of these museums, their policies on public access, their historic missions, statutory requirements regarding free admission, 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 while maintaining the museums' operational integrity and missions. The goal is to comprehensively analyze and propose strategies to make these cultural institutions more accessible to the public.

Business and Industry

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4519