Bill > S05086

This bill modifies the abandoned property law to change how land is handled when it escheats (legally reverts) due to a lack of heirs. Instead of reverting to the state, such land would now escheat to the Indian nation or tribe that historically occupied the property, or to the nearest existing tribal nation if the original tribe no longer exists. The bill comprehensively updates multiple sections of the abandoned property law to replace references to "the state" or "the people" with references to the appropriate Indian nation or tribe. Key changes include modifying procedures for recovering escheated property, filing petitions for release of such property, and handling any legal proceedings or financial considerations related to the land. The bill establishes that escheated land will be considered tribal land under state law, effectively transferring ownership and potential economic benefits to the relevant Native American nation or tribe. These changes aim to restore land to the Indigenous communities that originally inhabited the territories, recognizing their historical connection to the land and providing a mechanism for potential land repatriation when no direct heirs exist.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5086