Bill > A07286

This bill allows Westchester County to implement targeted hiring requirements for public works, construction, and purchase contracts based on local unemployment and poverty rates. Specifically, the county can require contractors to hire and retain workers from "targeted communities" - defined as cities, towns, villages, or census tracts where the combined average unemployment and poverty rate is at least 10% higher than the countywide average. The bill establishes a sliding scale of labor cost requirements: contractors must spend at least 10% of labor costs hiring workers from targeted communities if the community's combined rate is slightly higher than the county average, increasing to 20% if the community's rate is over 20% higher, and up to 30% if the rate is over 30% higher. The county will calculate these rates annually using labor statistics or census data, and can also require bidders to establish apprenticeship and training programs for workers in targeted communities. Additionally, the county may choose to prioritize hiring workers who were previously incarcerated and are participating in re-entry programs. The goal is to provide employment opportunities and economic support to communities with the highest unemployment and poverty levels within Westchester County.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A7286