New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S02604

Introduced
1/21/25  
Refer
1/21/25  

Caption

Directs the secretary of state to establish a Native nation consultation policy used by state agencies in instances where a proposal by such agency that would affect indigenous communities is under consideration.

Summary

Bill S02604 aims to amend the executive law of New York by establishing a formal consultation policy for state agencies when their proposals may impact Native nations. The bill defines 'Native nations' as specific sovereign Indian tribes in New York and mandates that state agencies engage in meaningful consultations with these tribes before making decisions that could affect them. The secretary of state is tasked with developing this consultation policy, which must include provisions for advance notice, participation of key agency personnel, and documentation of the consultation process.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly enhance the engagement of New York state agencies with Native nations, ensuring that their voices are heard in governmental decisions that affect their communities. It would create a structured framework for consultation, aiming to improve the relationship between state government and Native nations and potentially altering the dynamics of power and responsibility between these entities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S02604 appears to be generally supportive, as it seeks to address historical grievances and promote better communication between state agencies and Native nations. However, there may be concerns regarding the implementation and effectiveness of the consultation policy, particularly from state agencies that may need to adjust their processes to comply with the new requirements.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from state agencies concerned about the additional administrative burden that the consultation policy could impose. Some may argue that the requirement for advance notice and detailed consultations could slow down decision-making processes. Additionally, there may be differing opinions among Native nations regarding the adequacy of the proposed consultation measures and whether they truly reflect their needs and concerns.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY S00826

Directs the division of the budget to consult tribal nations, relevant state agencies, and other stakeholders regarding budget proposals that would impact such tribal nations.

NY A09663

Establishes the office of Native American affairs to act as a centralized office for Native American nations to access information on state programs that are provided to Native Americans.

NY S07424

Provides that state-funded SUNY programs shall be reimbursed at no less than 26% of the direct costs; allows state agencies to fund SUNY programs where such state agencies determine that such program would produce administrative efficiencies or cost savings.

NY A09034

Provides that state-funded SUNY programs shall be reimbursed at no less than 26% of the direct costs; allows state agencies to fund SUNY programs where such state agencies determine that such program would produce administrative efficiencies or cost savings.

NY J00904

Recognizing the atrocities of the Thomas Indian School and the impact it had on Indigenous communities

NY A09478

Directs the department of agriculture and markets, in cooperation with the department of environmental conservation, to establish standards for designation of native plants, to develop a list of native plants that indicates and differentiates between native plants that are indigenous to New York state and those that are native plants found elsewhere in the United States that are likely to shift or expand their range into NY, to establish a New York native plant designation, and to offer seals or logos identifying native plants as grown in New York state; defines "native plants".

NY S08779

Directs the department of agriculture and markets, in cooperation with the department of environmental conservation, to establish standards for designation of native plants, to develop a list of native plants that indicates and differentiates between native plants that are indigenous to New York state and those that are native plants found elsewhere in the United States that are likely to shift or expand their range into NY, to establish a New York native plant designation, and to offer seals or logos identifying native plants as grown in New York state; defines "native plants".

NY A09500

Provides that a person shall not be deemed to have entered the lands owned or occupied by a nation, tribe, or band of Indians if such person is temporarily and continuously passing through such lands; provides that at the request of the Seneca nation, the superintendent of state police, a sheriff of a county that includes lands of the Seneca nation, or the chief of police of the city of Salamanca may enter into an agreement with the Seneca nation detailing the activities such law enforcement entity will undertake within the nation's federally-recognized Indian Country lands; provides that such agreements shall not be construed to limit powers, duties, and responsibilities to undertake activities on Indian lands; and provides that such agreements may include provisions related to the appointment of tribal members of Nation employees as police officers.

NY S08834

Provides that a person shall not be deemed to have entered the lands owned or occupied by a nation, tribe, or band of Indians if such person is temporarily and continuously passing through such lands; provides that at the request of the Seneca nation, the superintendent of state police, a sheriff of a county that includes lands of the Seneca nation, or the chief of police of the city of Salamanca may enter into an agreement with the Seneca nation detailing the activities such law enforcement entity will undertake within the nation's federally-recognized Indian Country lands; provides that such agreements shall not be construed to limit powers, duties, and responsibilities to undertake activities on Indian lands; and provides that such agreements may include provisions related to the appointment of tribal members of Nation employees as police officers.

NJ A1354

Replaces references to "alien" and "illegal alien" in statutes with "foreign national" and "undocumented foreign national," respectively; prohibits use of those terms by executive branch agencies.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.