BILL NUMBER: S2602
SPONSOR: ADDABBO
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the executive law, in relation to establishing the
office of Native American affairs
 
PURPOSE:
This legislation amends the executive law to establish the Office of
Native American Affairs.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
The legislation would amend the executive law by adding new article
15-D.
Section one provides definitions and outlines the functions of the
Office of Native American Affairs
Section two establishes the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
This bill would create a new office within the Executive Branch, the
Office of Native American Affairs. Although the Executive and Legisla-
ture may take actions to acknowledge or support the continued partner-
ship between New York State and the 8 federally recognized Native Ameri-
can Nations within the state, there is no central entity within state
government specifically created to further these partnerships. Decisions
made by agencies throughout state government have a profound effect on
Native Nations. If those impacts are not represented in the decision-
making process, the state risks the perpetuation of the disparities that
exist within Native communities. These decisions have a direct impact
on access to adequate healthcare, education, and economic opportunities
due to the generational trauma and discrimination that these Nations
have faced. This legislation creates a mechanism within state govern-
ment to ensure the needs and perspectives of Native Nations are consid-
ered in the shaping of state policies.
The Office of Native American Affairs would:
1. Act as a centralized office for Native American Nations to access
information on state programs that are provided to Native Americans.
2. Develop and maintain cooperative relationships between New York
State's Native Nations, Native organization, Native American citizens,
and the state.
3. Establish, manage, coordinate, and facilitate Native American-related
policies, positions, and programs.
4. Advise and assist state agencies in development policies, plans, and
programs for Native Americans.
5. Serve as a conduit for New York State's Native Nations to other state
agencies and programs.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
2023: S.4648 (Kennedy) - Veto Memo 77.
2024: S.9472 (Addabbo) - Referred to Senate Finance Committee.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
To be determined.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect on the one hundred eightieth day after it
shall become law.