BILL NUMBER: S8277
SPONSOR: CHAN
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the executive law, in relation to designating the month
of May as Elder Appreciation Month
 
PURPOSE:
To designate the month of May as "Elder Appreciation Month" in recogni-
tion of the vital contributions, service, and civic commitment of older
adults across New York State.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
*Section 1 amends the Executive Law by adding a new Section 168-b.
*Subdivision 1 defines a "month of commemoration" as a calendar month
designated by statute, gubernatorial proclamation, or joint house resol-
ution.
*Subdivision 2 clarifies that such commemorations are for recognition
and honor, not legal holidays.
*Subdivision 3 declares that the month of May shall annually be desig-
nated as "Elder Appreciation Month."
*Section 2 provides that the act shall take effect on the first of Janu-
ary following enactment.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
New York's older residents continue to demonstrate unparalleled civic
dedication and service, even after formal retirement. Nearly one in four
Americans aged 65 and older volunteer in meaningful ways-mentoring
youth, assisting in hospitals, supporting senior centers, and strength-
ening community networks.
Designating May as "Elder Appreciation Month" honors this tradition of
selfless service and promotes broader awareness of the ongoing contrib-
utions of the elderly to our state's well-being. As the Baby Boomer
generation ages, bringing with it 77 million retirees over the coming
years, it is more important than ever to reaffirm the dignity and value
of older citizens.
This commemorative designation provides an opportunity for communities
across New York to celebrate, reflect upon, and support the aging popu-
lation's role in shaping our civic life.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
*2018: S.228 - Passed Senate
*2016: S.785 - Passed Senate
*2015: S.785 - Passed Senate
*2014: S.1975 - Passed Senate
*2013: S.1975 - Passed Senate
*2012: S.1774 - Passed Senate
*2011: S.1774 - Passed Senate
*2010: S.1573 - 3rd Reading
*2009: S.1573 - Referred to Finance
*2008: S.1148 - Passed Senate
*2007: S.1148 - Passed Senate
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
None to the State.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect on the first of January next succeeding the
date on which it shall become law.