Bill > A04746

This bill establishes a cyber security enhancement program and fund designed to help smaller local governments improve their digital defenses against cyber threats. Specifically, the bill creates a new cyber security enhancement fund with an initial allocation of five million dollars from the state's general fund, which will be jointly managed by the state comptroller and the commissioner of taxation and finance. The fund can also receive additional grants and contributions from government agencies. The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services will be responsible for disbursing these funds to upgrade cyber security for villages, towns, and cities with populations of one million or less. Additionally, the bill includes a significant provision that prohibits local and state taxpayer money from being used to pay ransoms in response to ransomware attacks, starting January 1, 2028. This restriction aims to discourage cybercriminals by removing financial incentives for ransomware attacks and encouraging local governments to invest in preventative cyber security measures instead of potentially rewarding malicious actors.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4746