Bill > A08907

This bill, known as the Prohibiting Elevation of Notorious Names (PENN) Act, establishes new rules for naming state-owned public facilities such as buildings and properties. The legislation prohibits naming a public facility after a current public officer while they are still serving in office. Additionally, if a public officer is convicted of a felony, the state must immediately remove their name from any public facility, regardless of whether an alternative name is immediately available. The bill defines a "public facility" as a building or real property owned by the state or its political subdivisions, and a "public officer" as someone elected to public office or appointed/employed by the state or its political subdivisions. Notably, if a facility was named after someone before they became a public officer, it can retain that name. Furthermore, public facilities named for public officers before the bill's effective date may continue to bear those names, with the exception of those convicted of felonies. The bill aims to prevent potential conflicts of interest and discourage the naming of public spaces after individuals who have been convicted of serious crimes.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8907